2023 Honda Accord vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class looked almost identical to its 2021 predecessor, which is to say, it was an epitome of automotive elegance. Following a complete makeover the previous year, the S-Class retained its sleek, elongated profile that set it apart from the more common SUV forms dominating the market. Its roots traced back to 1954, and the seventh generation, code-named “W223,” continued the legacy of being Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan. The S500 and S580 sedan variants boasted a stellar exterior design characterized by a long distance between the front axle and the dashboard—a design element often attributed to automotive elegance.

The S-Class's sleek profile could almost blend into the Audi lineup if not for the distinctive Mercedes-Benz grille and the iconic star hood ornament. Inside, the S-Class was a marvel. The dashboard featured open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen center stack, while the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel showcased the refinement of separating these functions across different planes. High-quality materials meticulously fitted together completed the luxurious and welcoming interior ambiance.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Accord embraced a more modern yet conservative appearance with its redesign. It lost much of the chrome and character exuberance seen in its 2018-2022 models. Some might have found its updated look too minimalist, but others appreciated the sophisticated Canyon River Blue paint job. Inside the Accord EX, durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and stylish dashboard metal mesh trim created an inviting, albeit less opulent, cabin. The interior also featured a digital instrument cluster and a functional touchscreen infotainment system, emphasizing practical comfort over luxury.

Driving the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was a blend of serenity and spirited engagement, regardless of whether one was behind the wheel or in the back seat. The S500 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine. This powerhouse utilized the EQ Boost system, contributing an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque to its 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. With a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, the S500 effortlessly accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The S580, boasting a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and the same EQ Boost, achieved an even more impressive 4.4-second 0-60 mph time.

Despite its heft—4,740 pounds for the S500 and 4,775 pounds for the S580—the S-Class handling felt predictably flat, and braking was assertive. Fuel economy figures were respectable for such a heavy vehicle, with the S500 offering up to 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, while the S580 delivered 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. While this engine was carried over from the previous generation, it had undergone refinements to enhance its reliability and performance. Paired with a CVT, the engine was adequate for everyday driving but lacked the thrill of the now-discontinued 2.0T variant. The Accord’s ride tuned for comfort and efficiency promised a combined EPA rating of 32 mpg, although the evaluation route yielded a slightly lower 28.7 mpg due to extreme heat conditions.

The Accord’s MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, combined with a variable-ratio steering system, provided good handling characteristics. The Accord was agile around urban settings and competent on twisty canyon roads, instilling a sense of confidence in various driving conditions. However, the modest Michelin Energy tires capped its performance potential, especially under spirited driving.

As an executive sedan, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in space and comfort. Its cabin offered luxurious amenities, including power-adjustable and ventilated seats with massage functions, a panoramic sunroof, and up to six USB-C ports alongside a 115-volt power supply. The spacious interiors made long journeys pleasant, while the 13.8-cubic-foot trunk provided ample storage without compromising cabin serenity, thanks to its lush carpeting.

Conversely, the 2023 Honda Accord EX focused on practicality and efficiency. Although it lacked the luxury of the S-Class, it provided essential features such as a power sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. The Accord's significant cargo capacity—16.7 cubic feet—allowed for easy loading and carrying full-size suitcases on their sides. Interior storage was well-considered, but the hard plastic linings along the console sides were less than ideal for comfort.

The 2022 S-Class brimmed with cutting-edge technology. Its 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen interfaced seamlessly with the latest MBUX infotainment system, offering vivid visuals and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel could transform into an awe-inspiring 3D display that provided critical information in visually striking formats. Further enhancing driving convenience, the optional augmented reality HUD displayed navigation instructions directly on the windshield.

For entertainment, the standard Burmester 3D Surround Sound system delivered exceptional audio quality, while the optional 4D system elevated it further with headrest speakers. The powertrain and chassis technologies, such as EQ Boost and rear-axle steering, complemented the S-Class’s luxurious yet agile nature.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX featured a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, text messaging support, and an eight-speaker audio system. Although lacking advanced features like satellite radio and a large touchscreen, the physical controls for audio functions added a refreshing user experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class embodied Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety. It came equipped with Magic Vision Control, dynamically optimizing windshield spray, and had a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems under the Pillar naming structure. These included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, active lane keeping, parking assist, and sophisticated Pre-Safe systems. Additionally, rear-passenger airbags and seat-belt-enhancing technologies were available, especially in the Executive Line.

In the 2023 Honda Accord, the Honda Sensing suite provided a robust array of ADAS, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Upgrading to the EX trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing the overall safety. The Accord also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, assuring drivers of its crashworthiness and protective capabilities.