2021 Honda Civic vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Honda Civic, a staple in the compact car segment, continued to offer a blend of practicality and style. Over the years, Honda had introduced several segment-defining versions of the Civic, with the 10th-generation model being no exception. The 2021 Civic was available in sedan, hatchback, and performance-tuned Type R formats, though the coupe was discontinued. The Touring sedan, with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels, presented a striking appearance, though opinions on its styling varied. Inside, the Civic's cabin, while showing signs of age, maintained quality materials and thoughtful design, though the infotainment screen size was limited to 7 inches.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exuded luxury and versatility, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint and premium interior, epitomized elegance and performance. The E-Class's design was characterized by a modern purity, with AMG styling and intricate wheels enhancing its appeal. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet offered a luxurious experience with high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, creating an environment of opulence and comfort.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered two engine options. The base LX and Sport trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT driving the front wheels. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, standard on EX, EX-L, and Touring trims, delivered 174 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a spirited driving experience, complemented by a sophisticated suspension and precise steering. However, the CVT was a drawback, with its droning nature and ineffective paddle shifters. Despite this, the Civic excelled in fuel economy, averaging 34.8 mpg on a test loop.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet boasted a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD, offered impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The E53's AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed for a versatile driving experience, from a relaxed cruiser to a dynamic performer on winding roads. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system further enhanced the driving experience, making the E53 Cabriolet a thrilling yet comfortable ride.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan, though low to the ground, provided a spacious interior akin to a decade-old midsize car. The driver's seat offered eight-way power adjustment, while the rear seats accommodated adults comfortably, albeit without rear air conditioning vents. The Civic's center console was highly practical, offering ample storage space, and the trunk provided 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly reduced in the Touring trim due to the premium sound system.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet, a true four-passenger convertible, prioritized front-seat comfort with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. The sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats ensured comfort in hot weather, while the triple-layer acoustic soft top maintained a quiet cabin. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of space with the top up, reduced when the top was down. The E53's interior featured multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing long-distance comfort.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology offerings were modest, with the base LX trim featuring a 5-inch LCD screen and basic connectivity. The Sport trim upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker sound system. Higher trims added features like HD Radio, SiriusXM, and a premium audio system. However, the voice recognition system was unsophisticated, and the premium sound system, while nice, was not essential.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in technology with its MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system offered multiple interaction methods, including voice control, and was customizable to personal preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgrades like WiFi service and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided exceptional sound quality, though the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated.

The 2021 Honda Civic came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of ADAS features including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. LaneWatch, available from EX trim, provided a live video feed of the right lane but lacked a traditional blind-spot warning system. The Civic earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, ensuring a high level of safety.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The E-Class Cabriolet also featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist. The E53's safety systems were comprehensive, providing a high level of protection and driver assistance.