It’s often fascinating to see where progress takes us, especially in the world of automotive design. Sure, new-generation models are often the talk of the town, but updates can be just as important, especially if your goal is to stay in front of the competition.

When it comes to BMW and Mercedes, neither is actually in front of the other in terms of designs, especially since looks are in the eye of the beholder and all that.

Subjectively however, these debates can be never-ending, and it’s about time we had ourselves a fresh one, seen as how BMW just came out with a facelifted 5-Series.

Related: 2021 BMW 6-Series GT Gets A Mild Facelift, But Falls Victim To SUVs In The UK

So how does it compare to the updated E-Class? Well, the same differences as before remain valid now as well, after all, we’re dealing with two completely unrelated designs.

However, if we had to say which of the two carmakers took a bolder approach here, it was definitely Mercedes. They changed not only the front fascia on the W213 E-Class, but also the rear (visibly), which now features completely new taillights – in line with the brand’s Sensual Purity design philosophy. BMW on the other hand changed the front, sure, but the overall shape of the taillights is the same. The only changes made to the rear are with regards to the light graphics, tailpipes and the bumper/diffuser setup.

Overall though, we could argue that BMW made a stronger effort at modernizing the visuals of the 5-Series, whereas the E just looks different and not necessarily newer. If you think that’s a fair assessment, let us know in the comments.

Otherwise, both models continue to measure the same, with the 5-Series ever-so-slightly larger (unnoticeable really). The BMW is 194.3 inches (4,936 mm) long, 73.1 inches (1,858 mm) wide, 58.2 inches (1,479 mm) tall and has a 117.1 inch (2.975 mm) long wheelbase. The E-Class on the other hand is 193.8 inches (4,923 mm) long, 72.9 inches (1,852 mm) wide, 57.8 inches (1,468 mm) tall and its wheelbase measures 115.7 inches (2,939 mm).

Neither company messed with the interior of these models. BMW gave the facelifted 5er 12.3-inch infotainment and gauge displays, which means they measure exactly the same as the Merc’s. Coincidence? Definitely not. The latter was also fitted with a brand new-generation steering wheel, unlike the 5-Series, whose dashboard continues to be more angular and “busier” than that of the E-Class.

Here’s a totally random, though perhaps relevant, observation for you: The BMW 5-Series is the only car among its German peers (E-Class, A6) that continues to have a traditional-looking stereo system setup in the middle of the dash, with buttons numbered 1 through 7. Meanwhile, the E-Class left only its climate control and a few infotainment shortcut buttons there, while the A6 is of course riddled with displays in that area.

Last but not least we have powertrains. No major changes here, apart from both carmakers implementing mild-hybrid 48V starter generator technology in order to enhance efficiency and performance on four- and six-cylinder gasoline powered-units.

It’s probably quite difficult to choose between the 2021 BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class without being subjective. Then again, it’s not like you can go wrong with either of them, especially since they’ve been made better than ever – technically at least. This means they’re better equipped to face off against the Audi A6, but also the incoming 2021 Genesis G80 and the Jaguar XF/Volvo S90 duo, both of which are undergoing tests in facelift form as we speak.

 

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