Mercedes-Benz offers more performance variants and cutting-edge technology, while Lexus prioritizes reliability and lower maintenance costs with a proven track record of 98% owner satisfaction and significantly lower depreciation rates.
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Lexus if you prioritize long-term reliability, lower ownership costs, and trouble-free driving with minimal maintenance—ideal for buyers seeking value retention and peace of mind. Choose Mercedes-Benz if you want premium performance, advanced technology features, and a luxury brand experience with higher trim/engine options, accepting higher maintenance costs.
Toyota's luxury division known for reliability, hybrid technology, and lower maintenance costs.
German luxury automaker emphasizing advanced technology, performance, and premium brand prestige.
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz with 396 attributes.
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
Standard Infotainment Screen Size (Mid-Range Model)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Lexus vs Mercedes-Benz.
Which brand has better long-term reliability?
Lexus ranks #2 overall in J.D. Power reliability (87/100) vs Mercedes-Benz at #15 (79/100). Lexus owners report 98% satisfaction with minimal unexpected repairs, while Mercedes averages $1,200-$1,800 per out-of-warranty service call. Lexus vehicles commonly exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
How much more expensive is Mercedes maintenance?
Mercedes-Benz maintenance costs approximately $8,200 over 5 years compared to $4,800 for Lexus—a 71% premium. This includes higher parts costs, specialized diagnostics, and labor rates. Annual Lexus maintenance averages $960 vs $1,640 for Mercedes after warranty expires.
Lexus depreciates only 38% over 3 years, while Mercedes loses 52% of its value. An RX 450h purchased at $52,000 retains $32,240, while a comparable E350 at $60,000 drops to $28,800. This 14-point difference compounds to $15,000+ savings for Lexus buyers.
Does Mercedes offer more performance options?
Yes. Mercedes has 15+ AMG variants with horsepower ranging from 362 hp (C63) to 603 hp (E63 S), delivering 0-60 times of 3.8-4.2 seconds. Lexus F Sport trims max out at 472 hp (RC F) with 4.5-second 0-60, limiting true performance seekers' choices.
Mercedes-Benz leads with its MBUX system featuring 12.3-inch displays, over-the-air software updates, AI-powered voice control, and optional Level 2 autonomous driving (Drive Pilot). Lexus uses a 10.5-inch touchscreen with slower update cycles, though it offers similar core functionality with simpler interfaces.