2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Toyota Prius

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained a familiar exterior design, yet its aerodynamic efficiency was notable, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.22, surpassing even the Toyota Prius. The S-Class was slightly larger than its predecessor, with increased length, wheelbase, height, and width. Its size was imposing, complemented by the classic Mercedes hood ornament and grille, which added a touch of luxury. Standard 19-inch wheels were offered, with optional 20-inch and 21-inch wheels. The interior was centered around a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist design that eliminated traditional controls. The ambient lighting system was a standout feature, offering 64 colors and integrating with infotainment and driver-assist functions. Interior materials included Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim, though the piano-black trim was prone to smudging and reflections.

The 2021 Toyota Prius maintained its iconic boomerang-shaped design, a hallmark since its second generation. Despite advancements in aerodynamics, the Prius retained its distinctive look, which was not universally praised. The interior featured a unique layout with centrally mounted displays and unconventional transmission controls. The infotainment system was positioned prominently, and the gloss-black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The Prius was available in multiple trims, with an optional AWD-e system for some models. It offered the practicality of a five-door hatchback, with prices ranging from $24,525 to $32,650. The Prius 2020 Edition, tested in Supersonic Red, was priced at $31,295, including destination charges.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and the S580 4Matic with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivering 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which provided an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds, with top speeds limited to 130 mph. The S-Class included standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, along with rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. The S580 was noted for its speed and comfort, with precise steering and effective driving modes.

The 2021 Toyota Prius prioritized fuel efficiency, with the L Eco version achieving 56 mpg in combined driving. Other front-drive models earned 52 mpg, while AWD-e versions managed 49 mpg. The Prius 2020 Edition averaged 47.5 mpg during testing. It combined a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with a 53-kilowatt electric motor, producing a total of 121 horsepower. The electric motor provided 120 pound-feet of torque, enabling electric-only driving at speeds under 25 mph. The Prius featured Eco, Normal, and Power driving modes, with regenerative braking to enhance efficiency. The TNGA platform contributed to its handling, offering a lower center of gravity and a more athletic feel. While not a performance car, the Prius excelled in urban environments, with predictable handling and commendable regenerative braking.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered increased front and rear headroom, as well as more rear legroom compared to its predecessor. It led the segment in shoulder room, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though it remained less than other luxury sedans. The front seats featured 19 motors for adjustment, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The interior design minimized analog controls, providing ample storage space. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed a large console with cupholders and climate controls, with the optional Executive Line package offering power-adjustable rear seats and four-zone climate control.

The 2021 Toyota Prius surprised with its interior space, accommodating up to five passengers. The seats were comfortable, though the SofTex synthetic leather could be sticky. The test vehicle included an eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear seats provided adequate space for adults, though lacked air-conditioning vents. Cargo space varied by trim, ranging from 24.6 to 27.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and up to 50.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 30-speaker Burmester audio system and rear-seat infotainment with 11.6-inch touchscreens were available. The MBUX infotainment system offered increased computing power and relied heavily on the touchscreen. The augmented-reality head-up display provided navigation assistance, though the digital instrument cluster's touchpads were small and challenging to use. The ambient lighting system reacted to certain functions, adding a dynamic element to the interior. Drivers could set up personal profiles with biometric or facial recognition, and rear-seat occupants could send navigation directions to the main screen.

The 2021 Toyota Prius included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with stereo-volume and tuning knobs. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Limited trim offered a 10-speaker JBL sound system, navigation, and a natural voice recognition system, paired with an 11.6-inch portrait-style touchscreen. The digital instrumentation was housed in a strip at the top of the dashboard, though the graphics appeared dated.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it included numerous safety features, such as a rear-passenger airbag. Standard driver-assist features encompassed adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and more. Mercedes claimed improvements in these systems, with traffic-sign recognition detecting stop signs and red lights, and lane-keep assist reading road edges. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering performed well, handling highway curves smoothly.

The 2021 Toyota Prius came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Safety Connect services were standard, providing collision notification, emergency assistance, and more. The IIHS rated the Prius favorably, though it lacked a Top Safety Pick designation due to headlight and front-passenger protection limitations.