Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs Polestar 5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class starts from $105,900 before on-road costs, while the Polestar 5 opens at $174,628. That makes the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the more affordable entry point by $68,728.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $116,490 and $192,091 respectively.
The Polestar 5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class stands out with wireless charging, panoramic roof and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Polestar 5. The Polestar 5 counters with heated front seats, power tailgate, V2L and Bowers & Wilkins audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class uses a Petrol producing 150kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.3 seconds.
The Polestar 5 responds with a Electric Motor making 650kW and 900Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds.
The Polestar 5 has the clear power advantage at 650kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Polestar 5 is 5.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class measures 4,949mm long on a 2,961mm wheelbase, 59mm shorter than the Polestar 5 at 5,008mm (3,000mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Polestar 5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 540L in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and 365L in the Polestar 5, giving the Mercedes-Benz E-Class a 175L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m diameter
Average
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz E-Class) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Polestar 5). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz E-Class if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Polestar 5 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Polestar's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Polestar 5 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Polestar 5?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the cheapest at $105,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Polestar 5 by $68,728.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class uses the least fuel at 7.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz E-Class all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has the largest boot at 540L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,100kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Polestar 5 makes the most power at 650kW. The Polestar 5 is quickest to 100km/h in 3.2s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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