The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is currently one of the leading sellers in luxury sedans. It comes with the sophisticated interior and exterior design you’d expect from this brand, powered by several great engines. Edmunds even rates it as the best luxury midsize sedan you can buy.

However, there’s one contender that we believe can beat the E-Class: the Genesis G80. Like the E-Class, it’s a luxury sedan filled with many lavish creature comforts. It also has multiple engines that provide drivers with plenty of power. So what makes the G80 stand out as the better luxury sedan?

What drivers love about the 2020 Genesis G80

One of the best things about the G80 sedan is its user-friendly infotainment system. Unlike other luxury vehicles, there’s no learning curve required to use it. It comes with smartphone integration, a seven-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and HD/satellite radio. Passengers can also enjoy standard leather upholstery and a quiet drive.

None of the G80’s engines make a substantial amount of noise. The base offering is a naturally aspirated V6 capable of 311 hp, plenty of power for the average driver. However, some recommend splurging a few extra thousand dollars for the G80 Sport. This model offers a twin-turbo V6 capable of 365 hp, with a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds.

Where the 2020 Genesis G80 falters

The G80 sedan has some of the worst fuel economy numbers out of any luxury sedan. The best it can manage is 18 mpg on city roads and 26 mpg while on the highway. The base model also isn’t the most engaging car to drive, which is another reason critics recommend the sport trim.

The Genesis G80 got a great overall score on its road test from Consumer Reports. However, one aspect they took issue with is the car’s gear selector. Testers found that the buttons looked too unfamiliar and were slightly too far apart.

Great things about the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

For 2020, the E-Class E300 trim was upgraded to become the E350. The new moniker is accompanied by a new base engine: a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The new engine is also more fuel-efficient, averaging 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg at highway speeds.

If you need more power, the high-powered AMG option comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. It packs plenty of punch with 603 hp and a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic. Like the G80, no passenger will be at a loss for comfort inside this car. The E-Class can also be purchased in different body styles.

Weaknesses of the E-Class sedan

One thing both passengers and drivers may miss is a touchscreen interface. The display screen can only be operated with a touchpad controller and voice commands, which can be frustrating. The rear seat is a little cramped for taller passengers and cargo capacity is below average.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 also doesn’t have the most fine-tuned suspension. Passengers will definitely feel the impact whenever the car runs over any bumps in the road. Both cars are very safe, but the E-Class sedan doesn’t have as many standard safety features.

Which luxury sedan is the better value?

The Genesis G80 is definitely the winner when it comes to price. The standard model starts at $42,550. In contrast, the cheapest Mercedes-Benz E-Class will cost $54,050. The Genesis G80 will probably also last longer than a new E-Class sedan.

According to Consumer Reports, it scored 4 out of 5 for predicted reliability. The E-Class only scored 3 out of 5, plus a lower owner satisfaction score. Because of all these factors, it’s clear that the Genesis G80 offers drivers the best value.