2024 Toyota Prius vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class broke away from the cold, technical designs of many modern vehicles. It featured a long hood, short deck proportions, and softly rounded forms, complemented by a star-map grille texture and star-shaped taillight illumination. The chrome sweep defining the roofline and various expressive wheel designs added to its distinctive character. As it entered the market, the E-Class was available in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, starting at $62,300 plus a destination charge. However, most advanced features were bundled into optional packages. Our test E 350 4Matic, priced at $82,450, showcased luxury with Tonka Brown Nappa leather upholstery and a Superscreen triple-display glass panel.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Prius retained its familiar wedge-shaped profile but introduced appealing styling with aerodynamically optimized bodywork. The Prius XLE and Limited models stood out with attractive 19-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Prius maintained its quirky nature, moving instrumentation in front of the driver, though visibility issues persisted. Hard plastics dominated the interior, leading to a flimsy feel despite potential durability. The 2024 Prius continued in LE, XLE, and Limited trims, with prices ranging from $27,950 to $34,965. Our XLE test vehicle, with options like Supersonic Red paint and a 12.3-inch touchscreen, totaled $35,532.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options. The E 350 4Matic featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The E 450 4Matic boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Both models included a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhancing fuel economy. Despite its power, the E 350 fell short of its 27 mpg EPA rating, averaging 23.8 mpg during testing. The Airmatic Package, with adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, provided a smooth ride, though the E-Class excelled more in comfort than sporty handling.

The 2024 Toyota Prius, following its redesign, offered improved performance with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, an 83-kW electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery. The hybrid system delivered 194 hp with FWD and 196 hp with AWD, reaching 60 mph in 7.2 and 7 seconds, respectively. The Prius LE achieved 57 mpg in combined driving, while the XLE and Limited managed 52 mpg. Our test car averaged 48.3 mpg without fuel-saving efforts. The Prius's handling improved, but steering felt artificial, and the CVT could be noisy. Despite these issues, the Prius offered a balance of efficiency and driving enjoyment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class provided comfort with supportive front seats available in various leather options, though the center console's shape could be uncomfortable. Rear seat access was challenging due to intrusive wheel wells, but once seated, passengers enjoyed decent legroom. Storage was ample, with sizable door pockets and a roomy trunk offering 19.1 cubic feet of space, though this seemed optimistic.

The 2024 Toyota Prius's interior felt snug, with a distant windshield base and gauges. The 7-inch display panel was cluttered and partially obscured by the steering wheel. The windshield pillars created a claustrophobic feel, and rear seats were cramped but comfortable for two. Storage was adequate, with a wireless charging slot prone to collecting dirt. The Prius offered 20.3 cubic feet of cargo space in XLE and Limited trims, expandable by removing the cargo cover.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class showcased advanced technology with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital display and a 14.4-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system with augmented video. The Superscreen Package added a passenger touchscreen and a video camera for conference calls. The MBUX system was intuitive, with a responsive digital assistant and AI learning capabilities.

The 2024 Toyota Prius featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Limited trim offered an eight-speaker JBL sound system, though it lacked depth. The Prius's technology was functional but less impressive compared to the E-Class.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included 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 were less suited for fast-flowing traffic.

The 2024 Toyota Prius came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle steering and braking. The Prius earned high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.