2023 BMW 3 Series vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, underwent a mid-cycle refresh for its seventh generation. It retained its lineup of the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, along with the plug-in hybrid 330e. The exterior design changes were subtle yet sporty, maintaining the narrow kidney grille and introducing redesigned full-LED headlights with inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The front fascia's lower air intakes were reshaped, and character lines led to flared rear-wheel arches, creating a striking first impression. Standard 18-inch double-spoke light alloys were offered, with an optional 19-inch upgrade. Shadowline trim became standard, with new paint options like Skyscraper Grey and Brooklyn Grey metallic available. The M340i featured exclusive design elements, including a mesh-design kidney grille and trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the 3 Series boasted the BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch Curved Display, creating a driver-centric cockpit with a minimalist dashboard approach.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class broke away from the cold, technical designs of modern vehicles, featuring long hood and short deck proportions, rounded forms, and bold detailing. It showcased a star-map grille texture, star-shaped taillight illumination, and chrome accents. The E-Class was available in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, starting at $62,300. However, many advanced features were part of optional packages. Our test car, priced at $82,450, included nearly all options except the Multicontour Seating Package. The interior exuded luxury with Tonka Brown Nappa leather upholstery, a Superscreen triple-display glass panel, and wood with aluminum inlays. The active ambient lighting system and a blend of classic luxury with modern technology enhanced the cabin's appeal.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series carried over its powertrains from previous years. The 330i and 330e featured a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the latter offering electric assist. The M340i boasted a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. All models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and xDrive all-wheel drive available. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e offered a combined 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 5.6-second 0-60 mph time and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Fuel economy varied slightly among trims, with the 330i achieving 29 mpg combined, the 330e 28 mpg combined, and the M340i 26 mpg combined. Our test drive of a RWD 330i with the M Sport package revealed a quiet, comfortable ride in urban settings and proficient handling on mountain roads, though it lacked the sportiness of M-powered models.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options. The E 350 4Matic had a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The E 450 4Matic featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhancing fuel economy. The E 350 felt swift but fell short of its EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined, achieving 23.8 mpg during testing. Equipped with the optional Airmatic Package, the E-Class offered a smooth, luxurious ride, though its handling on rough roads felt slightly unnatural. The E-Class excelled in comfort and quietness, providing a calming driving experience.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior. Front headroom measured 38.7 inches, with 42 inches of legroom. Rear passengers had 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom, accommodating average-sized adults. Standard SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats provided support, though the seat cushions were somewhat firm. The leather steering wheel offered excellent grip, and ergonomics were user-friendly, with intuitive controls. Storage included standard cup holders, trays, and a 17-cubic-foot cargo capacity. The rear seats folded in a 40/20/40 split for added versatility. Standard features included a power moonroof, with options for heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, even without the Multicontour Seating Package, provided comfort with supportive front seats available in MB-Tex, leather, or Nappa leather. Heated and power-operated, the seats offered optional ventilation. The center console's shape and lack of padding were minor drawbacks. Rear seat access was slightly challenging due to intrusive wheel wells, but once seated, passengers enjoyed good leg support and a tall riding position. Storage was ample, with door pockets, a center console bin, and a spacious trunk offering 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The trunk accommodated full-size suitcases, and the rear seats folded in a 40/20/40 split for additional capacity.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, allowing easy customization of widgets and vehicle information. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant responded to natural speech, simplifying voice commands. Standard tech included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker sound system. Options included wireless charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a 5G hotspot.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class showcased the third-generation MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital display and a 14.4-inch touchscreen. Configurable themes and an optional head-up display enhanced the experience. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a navigation system with augmented video. MBUX allowed for personalized driver profiles and routines, while online music and video streaming added entertainment options. The Superscreen Package included a passenger touchscreen and a cabin video camera. The MBUX digital assistant was responsive and conversational, with AI learning over time.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was unrated. The 2022 model earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick, missing the "Plus" distinction due to poor headlight ratings. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. Optional packages added advanced driving assistance systems like blind spot detection and lane-keeping assist.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with numerous safety features, with the Driver Assistance Package offering 15 additional technologies for $1,950. Highlights included upgraded Pre-Safe features, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems. The ADAS performed well, though some features like Automatic Lane Change and Speed Limit Assist were less suited for fast-paced environments. Overall, the systems were practical and effective in daily driving.