Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class [2017-2021]

“Why would anyone be so thrilled at the sight of a grey four-door sedan?” You would wonder. But this was no ordinary family sedan.

Superman as Clark Kent. Because at first glance, the Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG is all E-Class. Look closer and the chiselled body reveals itself – the large air-dam upfront with a splitter, the breathing vents on the muscular fenders and the massive 20-inch alloy wheels with the choicest rubber – especially in this shade of satin grey.

In many ways, the new Mercedes E-Class has managed to disguise itself as a smaller S-Class. It’s a good thing, given that the E350d, as we proved in our road test, set new benchmarks in its segment for luxury and comfort, but at Rs 73 lakhs (ex-showroom), it is pricey for a mid-size executive sedan. Fortunately, the same cannot be said for the lower spec but equally impressive E220d – a car that will inevitably form the backbone of the E-Class range. Simply put, the E220d is for those who want the new E and would happily trade the big V6 motor under its hood and some niceties for efficiency and a lower price tag.