2021 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a staple in the muscle car segment, continued to captivate buyers with its wide array of variants, including the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye. Despite its decade-old design, the Charger maintained a distinctive look that resonated with its "brotherhood of muscle" ethos. The exterior offered a choice between regular and widebody formats, with the latter adding an extra 3.5 inches for a more aggressive stance. The Charger was available in a variety of colors and wheel options, allowing for some customization, though its overall design remained largely unchanged over the years. Inside, the Charger showed its age with dated technology and materials, though improvements in fit and finish were evident. The interior was functional but lacked the premium feel expected at higher price points, with cloth seats standard on most trims and Nappa leather reserved for the top-tier models.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exuded luxury and sophistication, building on its complete makeover from the previous year. The S-Class retained its sleek, elegant design, characterized by a long, low profile and a distinctive Mercedes-Benz grille. The interior was a testament to Mercedes' commitment to luxury, featuring high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The dashboard was a highlight, with open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen taking center stage. The cabin was designed for comfort, with features like powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and active multicontour seats with massage functions. The S-Class offered a serene driving experience, with a focus on both driver and passenger comfort, making it an ideal choice for executives and luxury enthusiasts alike.

The 2021 Dodge Charger was renowned for its performance capabilities, offering a range of engines to suit different driving preferences. The base models, including the SXT and GT, were powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering up to 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Charger R/T featured a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, while the Scat Pack models boasted a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 producing 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The pinnacle of the lineup, the SRT Hellcat Redeye, was equipped with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI high-output V8, generating an impressive 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the Charger offered a connected driving experience, with configurable drive modes and Brembo brakes enhancing its performance on both the track and the road.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, on the other hand, combined performance with efficiency through its advanced powertrains. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost, providing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, supplemented by an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The S580 model offered a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, also benefiting from EQ Boost. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, ensuring smooth and responsive driving. The S-Class delivered impressive acceleration, with the S500 reaching 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. Despite its size, the S-Class handled with precision, offering a comfortable and engaging driving experience.

The 2021 Dodge Charger was a practical choice for families, offering a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. The rear seat featured a 60/40 split-folding design, expanding the trunk space for additional storage. While the technology in the Charger was somewhat dated, the instrument cluster varied by model, reflecting the car's performance capabilities. The steering wheel was functional, with easy-to-reach controls, though paddle shifters could be accidentally engaged during spirited driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. The cabin was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom, and featured high-end materials throughout. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the trunk offered 13.8 cubic feet of storage space. The front seats were equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring a comfortable ride. The S-Class also offered advanced options like a heated steering wheel and rear-seat entertainment, catering to those who valued both comfort and technology.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came with a basic set of standard features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, push-button start, and a rearview camera. Buyers could upgrade to an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a premium audio system, though the lack of a head-up display and the dated Uconnect system were notable drawbacks. The Charger offered a range of available features, but its technology felt less advanced compared to newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology, highlighted by a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and the latest MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency, while the 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable displays. The S-Class featured advanced navigation with augmented reality, a Burmester 3D Surround sound system, and an optional 3D instrument cluster. The available rear-axle steering system enhanced maneuverability, making the S-Class a technological marvel.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like brake assist and electronic stability control. However, its headlights received poor ratings from the IIHS, and advanced safety features were only available on select models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available features. The Magic Vision Control system optimized windshield cleaning, while driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, active brake assist, and active lane-keeping assist enhanced safety. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and car-to-x communication, ensuring a high level of protection for all occupants.