Infiniti
Q45
Mercedes-Benz
E-class
Infiniti Q45 vs Mercedes-Benz E-class: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz E-class comes out ahead of the Infiniti Q45 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Q45
Overall
Sentiment is polarized and heavily dependent on the vehicle's age and condition. Long-term owner reports from the 1990s and early 2000s models praise the vehicles for their powerful V8 engines, exceptional comfort, quiet and refined cabins, and high-quality Bose sound systems. Many describe them as fantastic driving cars that were competitive with, or offered as an alternative to, contemporary Lexus LS models.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" model year or trim. The first-generation (1990-1996) is noted for its "bubble era" technology and being a short-wheelbase Nissan President, but also for controversial styling.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic depreciation and high repair costs: vehicles lose value rapidly and require very expensive repairs post-100,000 miles, with parts being costly and hard to find. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Aging electrical and sensor failures: numerous sensors fail causing stalling, rough running, and check engine lights; window regulators, key fobs, and HVAC system components are problematic. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Power steering system failures: pumps, racks, and high-pressure lines leak and fail, causing fluid expulsion from the reservoir and noisy operation. Frequency: recurrent.
E-class
Overall
\nSentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and ownership context. For the W212 generation (approximately 2009-2016), owner feedback is generally positive regarding its solid build quality, reliability, and driving experience, with it being described as "pretty reliable" and "one of the best running cars" Mercedes has produced in recent decades. The W213 generation (approximately 2017-2023) receives praise for supreme comfort, refinement, and technology, particularly in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) diesel variants noted for excellent fuel economy.
Best version to buy
\nFor the W212 generation (2009-2016), the 2014-2017 model years are specifically recommended as being "well sorted." The E350 and E400 models with standard suspension (avoiding AIRMATIC air suspension if reliability is a priority) are cited as rock solid. For the W213 generation, the E300de (diesel plug-in hybrid) estate is highly praised for its combination of comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency.
Known issues
- ⚠\nHigh maintenance and repair costs: Includes expensive routine servicing, premium fuel requirement, costly parts (e.g., wiper motor, brake lines, air suspension components), and labor.
The verdict
The Mercedes-Benz E-class is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Infiniti Q45, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mercedes-Benz E-class are a dealbreaker, the Infiniti Q45 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti Q45 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mercedes-Benz E-class than the Infiniti Q45. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti Q45 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti Q45 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti Q45 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Infiniti Q45 than the Mercedes-Benz E-class. See the known issues comparison above.