Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs Mercedes-Benz CLA

Following a substantial refresh for the 2021 model year, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup sees few changes. The most significant of them is the cancelation of AMG E63 and E63 S variants. Reportedly due to supply chain problems, V8 engines are being dropped from much of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz lineup. That leaves the E-Class with turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder power plants.

Additionally, automatic high-beam headlights are standard on all 2022 E-Class models, and a couple of paint colors are new. With the coupe and convertible body styles, rear USB charging ports are now standard equipment.

The entry-level luxury car market has come a long way in the past decade. When upscale automakers first went downmarket, they tended to miss the mark and fail to reach the level of quality that buyers associate with their badges. But they have often come around and finally started producing compact cars with legitimate luxury credentials. One such comeback story is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.

When the CLA was first introduced as a 2014 model, it did not live up to the Mercedez-Benz reputation for luxury. It was underpowered, had a harsh ride, and had a low-grade interior. That all changed with the arrival of its replacement for the 2020 model year. The coupe-like sedan was a significant improvement and it carries over to the 2021 model year. The current CLA has sharp styling, energetic performance, and a high-class interior that’s outfitted with an advanced user interface.