2024 Genesis G80 vs. 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Comparison

The 2024 Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are 5-passenger midsize luxury sedans bristling with posh amenities. These include heated and ventilated seats, air suspension systems, surround-sound speakers, and expansive infotainment screens. 

It also goes without saying that these two sedans know a thing or two about getting down the road smoothly and confidently. Their not-too-big and not-too-small proportions mean they’re easy to maneuver yet deliver adult-friendly accommodations no matter where you’re seated.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable attributes of the Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. 

2024 Genesis G80

The 2024 Genesis G80 rolls into a new model year with some sizable updates. First, all-wheel drive is now standard on all models. Second, a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission performs duty as the base drivetrain. A 252-hp turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder served in this role previously. 

As before, the 3.5 T model is fitted with a 375-hp twin-turbo V6. We’re all for extra ponies, though we think the base drivetrain is already an overachiever in being one of the most potent standard engines among midsize luxury sedans. Pricing starts at $55,650, including a factory-to-dealer destination charge.

Genesis G80 Highlights

Warranty coverage: The warranties affixed to the Genesis G80 outshine even Mercedes’ coverage. A 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty complements the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. Genesis also includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Lexicon stereo: Optional in 2.5T models with the turbo 4-cylinder and standard on the 3.5T with the twin-turbo V6, a Lexicon 21-speaker and 1,050-watt audio system delivers incredible sound. Peek under the front seats; you’ll find this serves as home to a pair of subwoofers.

Highway Driving Assist 2: This semi-autonomous highway driving assist system is standard on every Genesis G80. Using driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, it delivers a degree of autonomy to reduce driver fatigue. It’s not a hands-free unit like some others, though we’ve found it very effective during many miles of road tests. 

Value: Numbers don’t lie; the Genesis G80 is substantially less expensive than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Factor in the many standard comfort and safety features, not to mention great warranty, and the G80 is a luxury sedan that’s suddenly a great bargain, too.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the G80 models near you.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2024 model year marks the introduction of the sixth generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan. Sleeker than before and bristling with futuristic touches — like onboard AI and giant touchscreens — this new E-Class pushes the envelope when it comes to tech. OK, maybe we could live without the in-car selfie feature (yes, it’s a thing). But the point is Mercedes has nudged the E-Class even closer to its biggest and most prestigious sedan, the S-Class.

Motivating the E350 4Matic is a 255-hp turbo 4-cylinder paired with a 9-speed automatic. This powertrain delivers a brisk 6.1 second 0-60 mph time. Under the hood of the E450 4Matic is a 375-hp turbo inline-6 that performs the same run in a speedy 4.4 seconds. Both engines benefit from fuel-saving mild-hybrid hardware, and each comes with all-wheel drive. 

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Highlights

Superscreen: Sci-fi fans will love the available Superscreen in the E-Class. An enormous glass panel covers two large infotainment screens — one in the middle of the dash and one in front of the passenger seat. There is also a separate digital instrument panel in front of the driver. Improved voice commands, augmented-reality navigation, and Zoom video conferencing capability (when parked) are just some of this Mercedes’ incredible arsenal of tech features.

Air suspension: The E350 and E450 offer an air suspension system that can be substituted for the standard steel-spring arrangement. This provides a serene, magic carpet-like ride that easily shrugs off any road imperfections.

Burmester audio: Like the Genesis G80, the E-Class delivers its own premium listening experience. The Pinnacle trim includes a 17-speaker Burmester audio system. Dolby Atmos surround-sound tech, along with speakers tucked into the front headrests and ceiling, conspire to provide amazing sound quality.

Digital Light: Available high-definition adaptive headlights provide intense guiding light without dazzling other drivers. These headlamps can also project alert symbols onto the road to notify the driver of unintended lane changes or oncoming road hazards.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the E-Class models near you.

Similarities

A delight to drive and bursting with amenities, the Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class feel as much like 5-star resorts as they do a means of getting from Point A to Point B. And similar to a dreamy stay at an elegant resort, they both feel worth every penny.

Conclusion

At this level of the automotive world, it’s hard to go wrong. The Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are refined, spacious, and entertaining to drive. Of the two, the E-Class holds the advantage in terms of tech touches, fuel economy, cargo space, and ride comfort (especially with the optional air suspension). 

On the other hand, the G80 looks sharp, the base model is thousands less, and there’s class-leading warranty coverage. Which would we choose? The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is for those who want all the shiny new things, and the Genesis G80 is for those who appreciate luxury but also respect great value.