2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat retained its exterior styling from the previous year, following a significant facelift in 2020. This update gave the Passat a more understated appearance, aligning it closely with the smaller Volkswagen Jetta sedan. The design was less radical compared to competitors like the Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, and Toyota Camry. The Passat's smooth, jellybean-like shape contributed to its aerodynamic efficiency, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.28. Standard features included LED headlights and taillights, with wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the trim. The R-Line trim added sportier styling elements, although the color palette remained conservative. Inside, the Passat's interior was clean and functional, with analog controls and good visibility. However, the interior materials were basic, with cloth or V-Tex leatherette upholstery, and the design was somewhat plain.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The E-Class was available in different models, with the E350 featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the E450 equipped with a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. The AMG E53 model provided a more powerful version of the E450's engine. The E-Class Cabriolet, in particular, showcased a luxurious design with matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fiber trim. The AMG styling, larger wheels, and convertible top added to its appeal. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet featured high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and soft leather, exuding luxury and sophistication.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat was powered by a single powertrain option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This engine produced 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. While the torque output was commendable, the horsepower was below average compared to rivals. The Passat's power delivery felt uneven, particularly during highway overtakes, but switching to Sport mode or manually selecting gears improved responsiveness. The driving experience was unremarkable, lacking the sportiness or comfort found in competitors like the Honda Accord and Mazda 6. The Passat provided a plain driving experience, with decent ride quality and cabin noise levels.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This engine delivered robust performance across the rev range, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet offered multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the car's character. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced the driving experience. The E53 Cabriolet excelled as both a comfortable cruiser and a dynamic performer, with the ability to handle twisty roads with confidence.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat offered 39.1 inches of rear legroom, slightly less than competitors like the Honda Accord and Subaru Legacy. However, this came at the expense of front legroom, which was below average for the segment. The driving position was uncomfortable, with limited front legroom and lack of thigh support in the front seats. The rear seats felt flat and hard. The Passat provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space, more than some rivals but less than the Accord and Sonata. In-cabin storage was limited, and door bottle holders were not well-designed for large bottles. The layout of controls was a highlight, with big buttons and knobs within easy reach, and the instrument cluster was easy to read.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for adults in both the front and rear seats. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down. The focus was on driver and front passenger comfort, with standard heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and available rapid-heating front seats. The Airscarf neck-warming system was also standard. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The test car featured multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance interior fragrance system. With the top raised, the trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space, reduced when the top was down.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat came with the MIB2 infotainment system, featuring a 6.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. R-Line models added HD Radio, navigation, and an eight-speaker Fender audio system. Keyless entry was standard on SE and R-Line trims. A single USB-A port handled connectivity, with two rear charge-only USB-A ports on SE models. The touchscreen was small but included pinch-to-zoom capability. The Passat lacked advanced tech features like the Digital Cockpit or MIB3 infotainment system found in other VW models. Driver aids were basic, appealing to those seeking simplicity over a tech-heavy experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, known for its complexity and ease of use. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction options included the touchscreen, center console controls, digital voice assistant, and steering wheel buttons. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. The system's broad menu structure required acclimation, and the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated. In a convertible, wind noise could affect the assistant's performance, but this was expected.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat received top "good" scores in all IIHS crash tests, but the standard headlights earned a "marginal" rating. NHTSA crash-test ratings were not available. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. The Passat also featured VW's Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System, enhancing safety in the event of a collision.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for a collision and protecting occupants' hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The Driver Assistance Package offered additional features like adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and Evasive Steering Assist. The package impressed with its comprehensive driver aids, enhancing safety and convenience.