Lexus prioritizes reliability and lower maintenance costs with a Toyota powertrain foundation, while Mercedes-Benz emphasizes luxury features, advanced technology, and performance with higher prestige but greater long-term ownership expenses. Lexus vehicles typically cost 30-40% less to maintain over 10 years.
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Toyota's luxury division known for reliability, hybrid technology, and lower maintenance costs.
German luxury automaker emphasizing advanced technology, performance, and premium brand prestige.
Average 10-Year Maintenance Cost. Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024). Warranty Coverage (Basic). Powertrain Technology. Average New Vehicle Price (2024). Owner Satisfaction (Consumer Reports 2024). Depreciation Rate (3-year)
Choose Lexus if you prioritize reliability, lower total cost of ownership, and hassle-free maintenance over a longer ownership period—ideal for practical luxury buyers seeking Toyota's engineering. Choose Mercedes-Benz if you value cutting-edge technology, performance dynamics, prestige brand status, and advanced features like MBUX infotainment, accepting higher maintenance and ownership costs for a premium experience.
Lexus: 12-15 years | Mercedes-Benz: 10-12 years
Lexus: 84 PP100 | Mercedes-Benz: 81 PP100
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Lexus: 8.0 (Above Average) | Mercedes-Benz: 5.0 (Average)
Lexus: 8-speed automatic | Mercedes-Benz: 9-speed automatic
Lexus: $1,450 (mid-size luxury) | Mercedes-Benz: $1,680 (mid-size luxury)
Lexus: 3 years / 36,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Lexus: 430 (LS 500) | Mercedes-Benz: 516 (S580)
Lexus: 4.6 (LC 500) | Mercedes-Benz: 3.2 (AMG C63)
Lexus: $48,500 (IS 300) | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 6 year / 70,000 mi | Mercedes-Benz: 4yr / 50,000 mi
Lexus: 81 out of 100 | Mercedes-Benz: 6.9/10
Lexus: 290 dealerships | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 2 models | Mercedes-Benz: EQE, EQS, EQC (strong)
Lexus: 228 miles (RZ 450e) | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 471 hp (LC 500) | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: ~75% of lineup | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
Lexus: 5.8 sec (ES 350) | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 8-14 inches | Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 (MBUX Digital)
Lexus: 5.8 (IS 350) | Mercedes-Benz: 4.3 (C63 AMG)
Lexus: 8 of 10 lineup | Mercedes-Benz: 4 of 11 lineup
Lexus: 10 years | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years
Lexus: 9 models (7 hybrid + 2 EV) | Mercedes-Benz: 9 models (4 hybrid + 5 EV)
Lexus: 40 (RX 450h) | Mercedes-Benz: 27 (GLE 450)
Lexus: 89 (Excellent) | Mercedes-Benz: 79/100
Lexus: 8.2 (ES 250) | Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 (C 300)
Lexus: 5 years / 60,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Lexus: 3 years / 36,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 10 years / 150,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 7.1 seconds | Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 seconds
Lexus: 1.2 seconds | Mercedes-Benz: 0.8 seconds
Lexus: 3 years/36,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50,000 miles
Lexus: 8.6 out of 10 | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Lexus: 1,450 dealers | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Standard Infotainment Screen Size (Mid-Range Model)
Lexus: 8.2 seconds | Mercedes-Benz: 5.3 seconds
Lexus: 10 years / 100,000 miles | Mercedes-Benz: 10 years / 100,000
Lexus: 8-14 inches (standard 10.5) | Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches OLED
Lexus: 44 MPG (ES Hybrid) | Mercedes-Benz: 28 MPG (C300 base)
Lexus: 83 (Above Average) | Mercedes-Benz: 76 (Average)
Lexus: 8.2 seconds (RX 350) | Mercedes-Benz: 6.5 seconds (GLE 450)
Lexus: 850ms (Mark Levinson) | Mercedes-Benz: 380ms (MBUX)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2.49 Million
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: New S-Class with enhanced tech
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Software-defined
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: GLC turbocharged refined
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MB Tech Stack state-of-the-art
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Comfort-oriented refinement
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: EQS 400/550 4MATIC models
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Ultra-premium throughout
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years standard
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 14+ models with EQS expansion
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 (AMG E63 S)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4.6 seconds (C 43 AMG)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 14.4 inches (S-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 603 (AMG E63 S)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG combined (C-Class estimated)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLE 350 base)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L turbocharged)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu.ft. (C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50,000 miles
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Premium luxury pricing baseline
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3,580 lbs (C-Class est.)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Varies (not standard)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (M256 3.0L turbo)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.3" (MBUX with AI)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Nappa leather and Alcantara throughout
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $49,500 (C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $65,000 (2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Level 3 (Drive Pilot, limited markets)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 1,400+ dealerships
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 138 years (est. 1886)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50k miles
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.6s (C63 AMG)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12 (C, E, S-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQE, EQS, EQC)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $55,800 (C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MBUX Hyperscreen (9.5/10)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Optional (4MATIC)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG GT 63 S)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 456 miles (EQS 580)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 149 mph (C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 312 miles (EQS 450+)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50k miles
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (C-Class)
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (founded 1926)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 6+ EV models across segments
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 40,000+ (Drive Pilot)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L Turbo)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 23 MPG combined
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 125 years (founded 1901)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2.9 sec (AMG GT)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5+ (EQE, EQS, EQE SUV, EQC, EQA)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $55,000 (C-Class base, 2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with ChatGPT integration (2024+)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $108,000 (S-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580e)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 150+ countries
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (C43 AMG)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4.6s (C43 AMG)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5 models (EQE, EQS, EQG, EQE SUV, EQS SUV)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 630 hp (AMG 63 E Performance)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 28 mpg (C300 2.0L turbo)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $45,650 (C 300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $65,900 (GLE 350)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C 63)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580 4MATIC)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Nappa (standard on most trims)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8 EV models (EQE, EQS, EQC, EQA, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQG coming)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $43,250 (C-Class, 2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (Compact, Sedan, SUV, Coupe, Cabriolet, AMG Performance, Maybach Ultra-Luxury, EV lines)
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Hand-stitched Nappa leather, ambient lighting
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 435 miles (EQS 580)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.8 seconds (AMG E63 S)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 186 mph (AMG E63 S)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 21 mpg (E350)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 11 (C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLA, GLC, GLE, GLA, C63 AMG, EQC, Maybach, SL)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG C63)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 260 miles (EQE 53 AMG)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $47,900 (C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 400,000 (public network partnerships)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 22 minutes (250 kW DC charging)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 170+ countries
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (Founded 1926)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG (2024 C-Class base)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 35+ variants
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 50,000 miles
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 603 hp (E53 AMG)
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $48,900 (C-Class)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4MATIC standard on select models
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with AI and predictive navigation
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 15+ models across all powertrains
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 50% EV sales target by 2030
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLC 300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5.9 seconds (GLC 300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 22 mpg (GLC 300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches (MBUX)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $68,500 (E-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 535 km (EQS 450+)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2.35 million (2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.3-inch MBUX
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C63)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 7.2 L/100km (C300 manual)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 sec (C300 2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (sedans, SUVs, AMG, EQ-series)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 260 (EQE 300)
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 60+ variants
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 621 (AMG E63)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (1926)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 33 MPG (C 300)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 0.1s (9-speed automatic)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 17.5:1 (E-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 150ms (MBUX)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (E-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 35 dB (C-Class)
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $16,380 repairs + maintenance
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 26 (C-Class Turbo)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 402 (AMG C43)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 75 (Average)
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.6 (AMG C63)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 180 (S-Class 580)
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Lexus: N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 (MBUX Hyperscreen)
How to choose between Lexus and Mercedes-Benz
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Structured Comparison Data
Machine-readable comparison dataset for Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz. Contains 396 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz.
Which brand has lower maintenance costs?
Lexus has significantly lower maintenance costs. Over 10 years, Lexus owners pay approximately $4,500-5,500 compared to Mercedes owners who spend $8,500-10,500. This 45% cost difference is due to Lexus's Toyota engineering foundation, simpler turbo-free engines, and cheaper OEM parts availability. Mercedes requires specialized service visits, expensive turbocharged engine maintenance, and complex electrical system repairs.
Lexus is more reliable with a J.D. Power 2024 rating of 83/100 versus Mercedes' 76/100. Lexus vehicles average 7-8 years before first major repair, while Mercedes typically require significant repairs by year 5-6. Lexus's Toyota platform, proven naturally aspirated engines, and redundant safety systems contribute to superior long-term dependability.
Does Mercedes have better technology than Lexus?
Yes, Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system is superior with 380ms response times versus Lexus's 850ms, AI voice assistants, real-time traffic integration across 188 countries, and smartphone-level functionality. However, Lexus's Mark Levinson audio and climate systems are reliable; Mercedes' advanced tech sometimes requires expensive repairs when software updates fail.
Which brand holds its resale value better?
Lexus retains value better with only 48% depreciation over 3 years compared to Mercedes' 57% depreciation. A Lexus RX350 worth $52,000 new sells for $27,000 at 3 years old, while a comparable Mercedes GLE 450 drops from $65,000 to $28,000. This is because Lexus buyers prioritize long-term ownership, creating stronger used markets.
Should I buy Lexus or Mercedes for performance?
Mercedes wins decisively for performance. AMG variants deliver 503+ HP with 0-60 in under 4 seconds, while Lexus base models need 8+ seconds. However, Lexus F Sport models (RX F, IS F) provide 475+ HP at lower service costs. Choose Mercedes for track capability; choose Lexus F if you want spirited driving without six-figure repair bills.
How to Choose Between Lexus and Mercedes-Benz
Consider: Average 10-Year Maintenance Cost
Average 10-Year Maintenance Cost: Lexus has $4,500-5,500, while Mercedes-Benz has $8,500-10,500.
Consider: Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024): Lexus has 83/100 (Above Average), while Mercedes-Benz has 76/100 (Average).
Warranty Coverage (Basic): Lexus has 3 years/36,000 miles, while Mercedes-Benz has 3 years/36,000 miles.
Powertrain Technology: Lexus has Toyota-based hybrid/naturally aspirated, while Mercedes-Benz has Turbocharged engines, AMG performance variants.
Consider: Average New Vehicle Price (2024)
Average New Vehicle Price (2024): Lexus has $48,000-75,000, while Mercedes-Benz has $55,000-120,000.
Consider: Owner Satisfaction (Consumer Reports 2024)
Owner Satisfaction (Consumer Reports 2024): Lexus has 4.2/5.0, while Mercedes-Benz has 3.8/5.0.
Depreciation Rate (3-year): Lexus has 45-50%, while Mercedes-Benz has 55-60%.