Mercedes-Benz vs. Lexus Comparison

Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV VS Lexus LX

Both brands offer large flagship SUVs, intended as uncompromising luxury cruisers that can fit whatever or whoever you need in them. As such, we’ve chosen the more powerful GLS 580 for this comparison, even though the lower-priced GLS 450 still comes with enough power to outrun the LX. We just wanted to highlight that there is no option for a more powerful engine in the LX, even if some trims cost more than the GLS 580. The result is a pretty stark difference in performance, not only does the GLS have more than 100 more horsepower, but it will hit 60 mph more than two full seconds quicker, an eternity in 0-60 times.

While the LX might have a slight price advantage, this is reflected (and then some) in the level of equipment that comes with these vehicles. Having 22-inch wheels on an LX requires moving up to a higher trim that costs at least $15,000 more, and that’s just the start. A third row of seats isn’t available on the base trim LX either. Suspension height control is only available on higher trim of the LX as well, and on all but the most expensive of these it’s still an extra-cost option. And no matter what you spend, you’ll still have less space and no option for 2nd-row wireless charging. Nobody is going to call the LX a stripped-down bargain basement model, but it’s worth noting that the couple thousand you’ll save with it comes at the cost of a lot of equipment.

Larger 21-inch alloy wheels give the GLS 580 a more commanding stance on the road. Speaking of on-road performance, the independent rear suspension of the GLS offers a more refined ride compared to the crude live axle found on Lexus LX models. A standard remote start system allows you to pre-heat or pre-cool the interior in order to ensure that the cabin is always at a comfortable temperature prior to stepping behind the wheel. A greater number of speakers, greater headroom across the first two rows of seating, and a larger cargo capacity are a few other reasons why shoppers continue to choose the Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV over the Lexus LX.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan VS Lexus IS

When it comes to performance, it may at first appear that these two sedans are equals thanks to identically-sized 2.0L I4 standard engines. Although they’re the same size, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class delivers greater torque for better throttle response. In addition to more power, the C 300 is able to outperform the Lexus IS across all three measurements of fuel economy. A more advanced 9-speed automatic transmission ensures efficient yet responsive power delivery.

The advantages don’t stop there. When you opt for the Mercedes-Benz C 300, you’ll receive impressive standard equipment that the Lexus IS simply cannot match. Perfect for staying safe during those unexpected summer rain storms, the C 300 comes standard with rain-sensing windshield wipers for uncompromised visibility. This feature is an added cost option at Lexus.

When it comes time to pack up your gear for your next weekend getaway, drivers will find the C-Class to be the better option. It delivers greater interior cargo volume than the IS and also comes standard with a 40/20/20 split folding rear seat compared to the 60/40 found inside the Lexus.

Finding your ideal driving position proves to be a far simpler task behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. With a simple press of a button, you’ll have the ability to fine-tune the angle, reach, and height of the steering wheel. IS drivers will have to do this manually. The front seats of the C-Class offer more adjustability and a memory position for the driver. Front seat passengers can stay just as comfortable as the driver as well. They will enjoy 4-way lumbar adjustability along with power seat cushion extensions, both of which are not offered on the IS 300. All occupants inside the Mercedes-Benz will appreciate the superior headroom found inside the C 300. No matter which way you look at it, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class tops the Lexus IS.

Mercedes-Benz GLC VS Lexus RX

Both Mercedes-Benz and Lexus have dedicated performance divisions, for Mercedes that’s AMG, and for Lexus, it’s F Sport. But the two aren’t exactly the same, and to demonstrate, we’re taking a look at the performance versions of two popular models with nearly identical pricing. Right from the start, we can see that the GLC 43 has more power, a pretty important facet of a performance vehicle. Even so, the difference in 0-60 times is shocking, with the Lexus turning in a decidedly unremarkable 5.9 seconds. The GLC 43 is more than a second quicker, partly because of the difference in power, but also because of its more advanced transmission and the fact that it’s a couple of hundred pounds lighter. But maybe the best example of the difference in the approach to performance is the front suspension. The Lexus uses a strut system, a space-saving design that comes at the cost of the kind of precision that you get with a multi-link setup, which is what you get in the GLC43.

What makes the performance all the more impressive is that the GLC is also more practical. Anyone can make a faster vehicle if you sacrifice practicality for speed, but delivering both, especially for the same price, is a much bigger accomplishment. The GLC 43 offers noticeably more cargo space, and that space is easier to access, thanks to the standard hands-free tailgate. You’ll also get a bigger infotainment touchscreen in the GLC 43, as the unit in the RX is almost bafflingly small, considering how recently the model got a full redesign.

When it comes time to pack up your gear for your next weekend getaway, drivers will find the C-Class to be the better option. It delivers greater interior cargo volume than the IS and also comes standard with a 40/20/20 split folding rear seat compared to the 60/40 found inside the Lexus.

Winner – Mercedes-Benz

Lexus is a luxury brand, and performance is a part of that luxury image. But it can’t be ignored that the Lexus approach to these concepts falls well short of the approach taken by Mercedes-Benz. The design, comfort, technology, and performance that go into Mercedes-Benz vehicles set the standard for the whole luxury segment, and Lexus is clearly just playing catch-up. Let Mercedes-Benz of Easton show you why there is no substitute for a Mercedes-Benz.

*The Total Price is the Starting at price plus estimated taxes and fees once a ZIP code is provided but is subject to change and may vary based on location of the Dealer and customer, inventory levels, vehicle features and available discounts and rebates. Additional products added to your deal will affect the price. The Total Price displayed is an estimate.