The 2025 Genesis G80 and 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class are 5-seater midsize luxury sedans resplendent in upscale features — such as heated and ventilated seats, air suspension systems, surround-sound audio systems, and expansive infotainment screens.
These two sedans also drive smoothly and confidently. Their “not too big, yet not too small” proportions make them easy to maneuver while still providing adult-friendly accommodation in any seat.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable attributes of the Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
2025 Genesis G80
This current generation of G80 (the second) launched for 2021, and this year brings a mid-generation refresh. The exterior design has been spruced up, along with a few changes in the cabin — the most dramatic being the super-large 27-inch OLED display. Genesis has reinstated physical controls in the center console for volume, tuning, and temperature adjustment. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto becomes standard, the infotainment system is capable of over-the-air updates, USB-C ports replace USB-A, the Digital Key feature is now compatible with Apple iPhones, a fingerprint reader becomes available, and the 360-degree camera system (in Sport Prestige trim) has a screen capture function — owners can access this remotely to check on their car’s surroundings. The previous Lexicon audio system is replaced by a Bang & Olufsen setup. The cabin also gains 64-color ambient lighting set into more places.
The 300-horsepower 4-cylinder turbo engine in the 2.5T models is among the most muscular in this class, while the 3.5 T is fitted with a 375-hp twin-turbo V6. We like the extra punch, but would be happy enough with the 2.5T. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard.
Genesis G80 Highlights
Warranty coverage: The G80’s warranties are unbeatable. 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.
Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system: We were big fans of the past Lexicon stuff in earlier models, but we doubt that even the pickiest audiophile with bat-like hearing would complain about the new 18-speaker/1,400-watt setup available in the 2025 G80.
Highway Driving Assist 2: Using tech like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, this partial self-driving system can reduce driver fatigue over long highway stretches. And it’s standard in every Genesis G80. It’s not hands-free, but we’ve found it wonderfully effective during many miles of road tests.
Value: The Genesis G80 is substantially less expensive than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Factor in the many standard comfort and safety features, plus the great warranty, and the G80 becomes that rare beast — a luxury sedan that’s also a bargain.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the G80 models near you.
2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
We could live without the in-car selfie feature (yes, it’s a thing), but Mercedes-Benz has nudged this sixth generation of E-Class (now in its second year) even closer to its biggest and most prestigious sedan, the S-Class. This year, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) E 350 joins the lineup as the new entry-level model. Every variant gains a center airbag as standard. Buyers can choose to have their steering wheel wrapped in MB-Tex simulated leather instead of the real stuff (our experiences with MB-Tex are all positive — it’s durable and extremely convincing). And the Manufaktur personalization program now offers Patagonia Red as an exterior color choice, replacing Cardinal Red. Bristling with futuristic touches like onboard AI and giant touchscreens, the E-Class really pushes the tech envelope.
The E 350 enioys a 255-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers a brisk 6.1-second standstill-to-60 mph time. The E 450 4Matic packs a 375-hp turbo inline-6, performing the same run in a speedy 4.4 seconds. Both engines benefit from fuel-saving mild-hybrid hardware.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Highlights
Superscreen: Sci-fi fans will love the Superscreen available in the E-Class. An enormous glass panel covers two large infotainment screens — one in the middle of the dash and one for the front passenger. There’s also a separate digital instrument panel in front of the driver. Voice commands, augmented-reality navigation, and Zoom video conferencing capability (when parked) are just some of the other tech features on offer.
Air suspension: The 2025 E-Class offers an air suspension in place of the standard arrangement. This provides a serene ride that shrugs off road imperfections with uncanny ease.
Burmester audio: Like the Genesis G80, the E-Class delivers its own premium listening experience. Pinnacle trim includes a 17-speaker Burmester surround-sound system. Dolby Atmos tech, along with speakers tucked into the front headrests and ceiling, contribute to amazing sound quality.
Digital Light: Optional high-definition adaptive headlights provide intense guiding light without dazzling other drivers. These units 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
Each car is an absolute delight to drive and bursting with features. The Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class feel as much like 5-star resorts as they do a means of getting from A to B. Similar to a dreamy stay at an elegant resort, they also feel worth every penny.
Pricing
New 2025 Genesis G80 Prices
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (08050)
|
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
$58,450 |
$55,130 |
|||
$63,250 |
$60,049 |
|||
$69,700 |
$68,229 |
|||
$70,950 |
$67,856 |
|||
$78,350 |
$76,383 |
New 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Prices
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (08050)
|
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
$63,600 |
$59,968 |
|||
$66,100 |
$63,337 |
|||
$72,000 |
$70,250 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Genesis G80 vehicles and New 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
2025 Genesis G80 | 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class | |
Popular Powertrains | ||
Engine | Turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cyl. | Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cyl. |
Horsepower | 300 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 255 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
Torque | 311 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
Fuel economy MPG | 20 city/29 highway/24 combined | 25 city/33 highway/28 combined |
Also Available | Twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 | Turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 |
Specs | ||
Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
NHTSA Overall Safety | 5-Star | Not rated |
Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Wheelbase | 118.5 inches | 116.6 inches |
Overall Length | 196.7 inches | 194.9 inches |
Width (without mirrors) | 75.8 inches | N/A |
Height | 57.7 inches | 57.9 inches |
Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | N/A |
Headroom, Front | 41.1 inches | 37.3 inches |
Headroom, Rear | 38.2 inches | 37.6 inches |
Legroom, Front | 42.2 inches | 41.7 inches |
Legroom, Rear | 38.7 inches | 36.2 inches |
Shoulder Room, Front | 58.3 inches | 57.8 inches |
Shoulder Room, Rear | 57.1 inches | 57.1 inches |
Cargo Volume | 13.1 cubic feet | 12.7 cubic feet |
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. Of the two, the E-Class holds the advantage in terms of tech, fuel economy, cargo space, ride comfort (especially with the optional air suspension), and prestige.
On the other hand, the G80 looks sharp, the base model costs thousands less, has more power, and there’s class-leading warranty coverage. We’d say the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is for those who want all the shiny new things, and the Genesis G80 is for buyers who like the luxury yet also appreciate great value.