The Genesis G70 comes standardly equipped with a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. For even more oomph, the Genesis offers a 3.3L Twin Turbo V6 engine, generating a potent 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque.

In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz CLE starts with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, noticeably lagging behind the G70's standard power output. With its optional engine upgrade, the CLE achieves a similar horsepower; however, the Genesis’ torque capabilities are greater still.

The Genesis and the Mercedes-Benz offer different drivetrains. The CLE’s 4MATIC® all-wheel drivetrain will be useful when tackling adverse weather or road conditions. While the G70 is also available with all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive comes standard.

So, is rear-wheel or all-wheel drive better? Your preferences will play into effect here. All-wheel drive provides a stable, effortless ride in various conditions. Rear-wheel drive is better suited for drivers looking to boost their street cred with sports-car-esque handling.

Since you spend a lot of time seated inside the cabin, you’ll want the assurance that you’ll be cozy. The G70 comes equipped with leatherette seating with the option for Nappa leather upholstery to elevate the overall aesthetic and provide exquisite comfort. The CLE offers MB-TEX upholstery as standard, with leather available as an upgrade. Both models provide standard heated front seats with the option for ventilation, helpful when temperatures climb.

Customize your seating position to your individual preference with both sedans’ fully adjustable driver’s seats. You’ll also benefit from 4-way lumbar support and a memory system to reclaim your preferred position after another driver takes the wheel.

Both sedans provide ample interior space for everyone on board to relax. Taking out the tape measure, they have similar dimensions in the front row, so drivers and their copilots will be equally comfortable in either model.

Still, back-seat passengers may prefer the Genesis G70 over the Mercedes-Benz CLE.

• Genesis G70 2nd-Row Headroom/Legroom: 36.9/34.8 inches
• Mercedes-Benz CLE 2nd-Row Headroom/Legroom: 36/34.2 inches

Although it may not seem like much, even a bit of extra wiggle room can make a big difference on long road trips.

To start, both vehicles come standard with a variety of similar safety features. This includes brand-specific versions of the following:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• Rearview Camera

So, you can always feel confident when taking the wheel, knowing that your vehicle is helping watch out for you while you’re on the road.

The Genesis G70 distinguishes itself by including certain advanced safety technologies lacking in the base trim of the Mercedes-Benz CLE. One such feature is Blind-Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. This system provides additional awareness to the driver, helping mitigate the risk of collisions when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces.

Another such feature is the G70’s standard Smart Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. It helps reduce your speed when entering a curve or making a turn and automatically adjusts for changing speed limits, allowing you to concentrate on the road. On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz CLE has standard Speed Limit Assist and offers adaptive cruise control as part of an optional package.