2022 BMW i4 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper angles of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models from earlier years. The E-Class had a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. The removal of the standing hood ornament marked a shift towards a more modern aesthetic, although some traditionalists might have missed the classic Mercedes look. The interior was a luxurious haven, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents, complemented by advanced ambient lighting and a dual-screen setup that added a modern touch to the cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW i4 retained the styling cues of the gasoline-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe, with a polarizing oversized grille and a fastback roofline. The i4's design was more aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base model, achieved through features like a smooth underbody and active grille flaps. The interior struck a balance between minimalism and traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and a familiar layout. However, the seating was noted to be flat and hard, lacking the bolstering expected in a sporty car. The i4 offered a spacious feel despite limited side glass, but headroom was compromised by the sleek roofline. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, and the absence of a front trunk was a notable omission.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced electrified inline-six powertrains, with the E450 model featuring a hybrid system that provided extra power and torque through a 48-volt electrical system. This setup allowed for smoother engine restarts and improved fuel efficiency, although it didn't significantly enhance performance. The E450's 3.0-liter engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E53 added a second turbo, boosting output to 429 hp and 384 lb-ft. The AMG E63 S, with its 4.0-liter V8, delivered a staggering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft, offering supercar-like acceleration. Despite the power, the E-Class maintained a comfortable ride, with AMG models featuring advanced suspension systems for improved handling.

The 2022 BMW i4 offered two powertrain options: the base i4 eDrive40 with 335 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, and the M50 model with 536 hp and 586 lb-ft. The M50's dual-motor setup enabled a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds, showcasing impressive acceleration. The i4's handling was enhanced by a low center of gravity and advanced suspension systems, including adaptive M suspension and variable sport steering. Despite its weight, the i4 provided a smooth and engaging driving experience, with precise steering and effective regenerative braking. However, the adaptive recuperation system's inconsistent behavior was a minor drawback.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, making it more user-friendly. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, each with its own cargo space configuration. The wagon, in particular, provided generous cargo capacity with a stowable rear-facing jump seat. However, some luxury features were missing in the rear seats of the E53 model, despite its high price tag.

The 2022 BMW i4's interior was designed to maximize space, with a low seating position that didn't compromise visibility. While the fastback roof limited headroom, the i4 offered more rear legroom than some competitors. The center console was efficiently designed, providing ample storage space. However, the seats were criticized for being flat and lacking bolstering, and the wireless charging pad was too small for larger phones. The i4's cargo space was limited, and the absence of a front trunk was a disadvantage compared to rivals.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface and advanced voice recognition. The system offered various customization options for the instrument cluster and included features like live camera feeds and massaging seats. However, it lacked over-the-air updates and wireless smartphone integration. The E-Class also offered a range of driver-assist features, with some optional systems providing semi-autonomous capabilities.

The 2022 BMW i4 featured the latest iDrive8 infotainment system with a curved display, combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates, with a user-friendly interface that included a rotary controller and voice recognition. Additional features like a head-up display and wireless charging were available, enhancing the i4's tech offerings.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS. The E-Class offered innovative safety features like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a collision. Standard safety equipment included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2022 BMW i4's safety ratings were not available at the time of publication. However, it came equipped with standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional packages added advanced systems like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing the i4's safety capabilities.