Two cars, one duel: Mercedes E Class meets VW Passat.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!
In the landscape of modern automobiles, the Mercedes E-Klasse and the VW Passat stand as paragons of German engineering. Each caters to a different kind of driver, yet both represent the cutting edge in their respective categories. If you're in the market for a new car, understanding what sets these two apart could be the key to making the right decision.
The Mercedes E-Klasse offers a spectrum of powerful engine options. It is available with various propulsion technologies, including Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, and Diesel MHEV, with power outputs ranging from a robust 186 HP to a formidable 585 HP. This level of power translates into breathtaking acceleration, with the fastest version sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds. For those prioritizing speed, the E-Klasse packs a punch with a top speed of up to 250 km/h.
In contrast, the VW Passat, known for its practicality, offers a different suite of engines. The lineup includes Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, and Petrol, producing between 122 HP and 272 HP. The Plugin Hybrid variant is particularly notable for its electric range, which can stretch up to 126 km, a significant figure for a vehicle in this class. Although the Passat's acceleration may not rival that of the E-Klasse, with the quickest model reaching 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, it is more than enough for daily use and a touch of spirited driving.
When it comes to fuel consumption, the E-Klasse offers excellent efficiency across its lineup. Its Plugin Hybrid variant achieves an impressive consumption of just 0.4-0.8 L/100km, paired with an electric range between 99 and 114 km, which is ideal for reducing emissions in urban settings. Meanwhile, the VW Passat's Plugin Hybrid models demonstrate superior efficiency with a competitive 0.4 L/100km figure.
For drivers considering both vehicles primarily for long-distance travel, the traditional engines in both lineups offer strong fuel economy. The E-Klasse's engines consume between 4.7 and 7.5 L/100km, while the Passat's tally between 4.9 and 8.1 L/100km.
Design-wise, the Mercedes E-Klasse exudes an aura of luxury and sophistication. Its sedan form offers a spacious interior with high-quality materials befitting its premium status. The E-Klasse also provides a trunk capacity of 370 to 540 liters, making it practical for family and business needs.
On the other hand, the VW Passat, with its wagon body type, emphasizes versatility without compromising style. With a larger trunk capacity of up to 690 liters, the Passat is perfect for those requiring additional luggage space, ensuring no family trip is left wanting. Despite its focus on practicality, the Passat maintains a refined interior atmosphere that echoes its German craftsmanship.
Both vehicles come loaded with state-of-the-art innovations. The E-Klasse boasts advanced driver assistance systems and infotainment features featuring a bold digital cockpit and intuitive interface. These systems not only provide a heightened sense of safety but enhance the driving experience to a new level.
Similarly, the Passat integrates cutting-edge technology, including its dual-clutch automatic transmission, which ensures smooth operations between gears, enhancing overall fuel efficiency and driving comfort. VW's latest infotainment system keeps drivers connected, with user-friendly controls that mirror the brand's focus on practicality and ease of use.
Whether choosing the luxurious Mercedes E-Klasse or the versatile VW Passat, both models deliver a blend of performance, efficiency, and innovation tailored for today's discerning driver. Where the E-Klasse thrives in offering a powerful, luxurious experience, the Passat excels in practicality and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the decision rests on personal priorities—whether one values the opulence of Mercedes or the practicality of VW. Each vehicle stands as a testament to the ingenuity and commitment to quality inherent in the very fabric of German automotive engineering.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
VW Passat has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35700 £, while the Mercedes E Class costs 50500 £. That’s a price difference of around 14756 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Passat manages with 1.20 L and is therefore evident more efficient than the Mercedes E Class with 1.50 L. The difference is about 0.30 L per 100 km.
As for range, the VW Passat performs a bit better – achieving up to 135 km, about 19 km more than the Mercedes E Class.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes E Class has a convincingly edge – offering 585 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 313 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes E Class is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4 s, while the VW Passat takes 5.80 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.
There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 250 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes E Class pulls convincingly stronger with 750 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 350 Nm difference.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, VW Passat is slightly lighter – 1573 kg compared to 1810 kg. The difference is around 237 kg.
In terms of boot space, the VW Passat offers evident more room – 690 L compared to 540 L. That’s a difference of about 150 L.
When it comes to payload, Mercedes E Class barely noticeable takes the win – 640 kg compared to 577 kg. That’s a difference of about 63 kg.
Overall, the Mercedes E Class shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
The Mercedes E‑Class is the executive saloon that balances calm refinement with a hint of sporting intent, wrapping luxury in tasteful understatement. It pampers occupants with a composed ride and intuitive tech while quietly reminding you that it’s still very much a Mercedes — authoritative, polished, and unwilling to shout for attention.
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
The VW Passat is the grown-up family car that gets the basics absolutely right — roomy, comfortable and built to handle weekday commutes and weekend getaways without fuss. It won't set your pulse racing, but its calm composure and sensible packaging make it boring in the best possible way: a dependable, no‑drama choice for buyers who value practicality over flash.
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
50500 - 119700 £
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Price
35700 - 58500 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.5 - 7.5 L
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Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 8 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
101 - 116 km
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Electric Range
124 - 135 km
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Battery Capacity
21.20 kWh
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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co2
39 - 172 g/km
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co2
28 - 181 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
50 - 66 L
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Fuel tank capacity
45 - 66 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Sedan
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Body Type
Estate
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
4
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1810 - 2390 kg
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Curb weight
1573 - 1858 kg
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Trunk capacity
370 - 540 L
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Trunk capacity
510 - 690 L
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Length
4949 - 4959 mm
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Length
4917 mm
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Width
1880 mm
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Width
1849 mm
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Height
1468 - 1480 mm
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Height
1521 mm
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
1770 - 1920 L
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Payload
530 - 640 kg
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Payload
501 - 577 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
186 - 585 HP
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Power HP
122 - 272 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4 - 8.5 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 10.7 s
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Max Speed
222 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
212 - 250 km/h
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Torque
320 - 750 Nm
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Torque
250 - 400 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
137 - 430 kW
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Power kW
90 - 200 kW
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Engine capacity
1993 - 2999 cm3
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Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B, D
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G, D, E, B
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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Brand
VW
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The Mercedes E Class is offered with Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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