To discerning patrons who prize compactness as extremely as consolation in a luxurious sedan, you’re prone to contemplate in your hunt the 2025 Lexus IS and 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, two perennial class favorites.
The present technology of the IS will be the extra venerable of the 2 opponents, as Lexus refreshed it for 2021 after seven years, however Mercedes-Benz redesigned and upgraded the C-Class sedan for the 2022 mannequin yr. Neither is precisely a spring hen; nonetheless, each are up to date and loaded with excessive tech.
Let’s discover the highlights of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Lexus IS to see which compact luxurious sedan appeals to you.
2025 Lexus IS


The 2025 Lexus IS vary consists of the IS 300, IS 350, and IS 500. F Sport packages can be found for every variant, which provides styling or efficiency tweaks primarily based on the mannequin patrons select. The entry-level IS 300 runs on a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed computerized, and rear-wheel drive (RWD). Pricing begins at $41,610.
Lexus IS Highlights
Basic styling: This can be a matter of style, however the IS will enchantment to patrons preferring feeling like they’re driving a automotive moderately than helming a console aboard the starship Enterprise. The outside design continues to be sharp and remains to be the most effective it’s ever seemed.
Engine selection: If patrons favor spending much less on the dealership and gasoline station above all else, the 241-horsepower base unit within the IS 300 is a decent selection. Including all-wheel drive (AWD) to the IS 300 brings a 260-hp 3.5-liter V6. A 311-hp tune of this identical V6 powers the IS 350. Just like the IS 300, the IS 350 rides on rear- or all-wheel drive. The IS 500 packs a 5.0-liter V8 that sends 472 hp to the rear wheels and just a little growl to the refined sedan’s exhaust. Oddly, not like the C-Class, the IS has no hybrid powertrain—one thing for which Lexus is known.
Resale worth: Resale worth is a Lexus calling card as a result of Lexus holds its worth higher than most luxurious manufacturers, even the a lot coveted Mercedes-Benz. We suppose there’s one thing to be stated for not being on the forefront of know-how—that, and high quality craftsmanship and dependability.
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the IS fashions close to you.
2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class


2024 mannequin proven
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup begins with the C 300, weighing in with a beginning worth of $49,600. It employs a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 255-hp ranking that falls between that of the 2 IS 300 fashions however thumps each with 295 lb-ft of torque. This mild-hybrid engine {couples} to a 9-speed computerized transmission that may additionally switch energy to the rear wheels solely or all of them concurrently. The 48-volt delicate hybrid system can electrically ship one other 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque for fast bursts. Modifications this yr embrace an up to date infotainment system and a middle airbag between the entrance seats.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Highlights
Hello-tech cockpit: The C-Class has arguably probably the most tech-forward cabins within the compact sedan section. The automaker upgraded its MBUX (Mercedes-Benz Person Expertise) system, which now contains 5G wi-fi connectivity. The Routines function enhances C 300’s private assistant capabilities, enabling any of seven preprogrammed customers to automate their ordinary preferences. The MBUX is operated by way of an 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen positioned three-quarters up the middle console. Behind the steering wheel is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. A head-up show and MB Navigation that includes real-time visitors information are additionally accessible. You can too discuss to the Hey Mercedes voice assistant in 27 languages.
Mercedes-AMG fashions: To not be outdone by the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Efficiency, the AMG in-house tuner strikes with a 402-hp turbo model of the C-Class within the type of the C 43. Upping the ante once more with the bottom engine, the AMG C 63 S E Efficiency mannequin places down 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain and may take off from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Each are outfitted with all-wheel drive and a sport-tuned suspension as inventory.
Biometric fingerprint scanner: Emphasizing the excessive tech of the C-Class, each trim degree supplies this cutting-edge entry to the personalized-settings profile of every programmed consumer.
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the C-Class fashions close to you.
Similarities
Till you get to the AMG C 63 mannequin, pricing and efficiency numbers stay shut between these two compact luxurious sedans when evaluating equal trim ranges. Each supply opulent packages to raise the expertise, together with premium sound programs for probably the most discriminating audiophiles. Each mannequin of those two automobiles recommends premium octane, even the naturally aspirated V8-powered IS 500.
Pricing
New 2025 Lexus IS Costs
$41,610 |
$39,616 |
|||
$43,580 |
$40,607 |
|||
$44,935 |
$41,987 |
|||
$45,655 |
$43,185 |
|||
$47,010 |
$44,462 |
|||
$60,595 |
$58,546 |
|||
$65,095 |
$62,979 |
New 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Costs
The Kelley Blue E book Honest Buy Worth for any particular person used car can differ significantly in accordance with mileage, situation, location, and different elements.
The costs right here replicate what patrons are at present paying for New 2025 Lexus IS automobiles and New 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class automobiles in typical situation when buying from a dealership.
These costs are up to date weekly. The producer’s instructed retail worth (MSRP) quoted contains the vacation spot charge, however doesn’t embrace tax, license, doc charges, and choices.
Specs
2025 Lexus IS | 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | |
In style Powertrains | ||
Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5,200 rpm | 255 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1,650-4,400 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 2,000-3,200 rpm |
Transmission | 8-speed computerized | 9-speed computerized |
Gasoline financial system MPG | 21 metropolis/31 freeway/25 mixed | 25 metropolis/35 freeway/29 mixed |
Additionally Obtainable | 3.5-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8; AWD | Turbo gas-electric 2.0-liter 4-cyl.; AWD |
Specs | ||
Fundamental Guarantee | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
Powertrain Guarantee | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
NHTSA General Security Ranking | 5-Star | 5-Star |
Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
Wheelbase | 110.2 inches | 112.8 inches |
General Size | 185.4 inches | 187.0 inches |
Width | 72.4 inches | 74.4 inches |
Top | 56.5 inches | 56.6 inches |
Turning Diameter | 34.2 ft | 37.6 ft |
Headroom, Entrance | 38.2 inches | 40.0 inches |
Headroom, Rear | 36.9 inches | 37.5 inches |
Legroom, Entrance | 44.8 inches | 41.7 inches |
Legroom, Rear | 32.2 inches | 36.6 inches |
Shoulder Room, Entrance | 55.9 inches | 56.3 inches |
Shoulder Room, Rear | 53.4 inches | 55.6 inches |
Cargo Quantity | 10.8 cubic ft | 11.6 cubic ft |
Conclusion
The 2025 Lexus IS and 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class are advantageous examples of the compact luxurious automotive section however supply totally different experiences. The C-Class is extra trendy in each respect, from the best way it derives its energy and efficiency to its sheer embrace of cutting-edge tech within the cabin. Additionally refined however in a traditional sense, the IS rekindles a nostalgic driving expertise that isn’t overwhelmed with screens and flashy gizmos vying on your consideration. Nevertheless, as astounding because the Mercedes-Benz will be, that feeling comes at a a lot heftier worth than the Lexus. Furthermore, the IS retains its worth higher. Consequently, patrons who’re much less enamored with the newest and biggest of all the pieces would possibly view the Lexus IS as the higher funding. Finally, it’s actually about your price range and whichever expertise you favor, however test-drive each for the enjoyment every brings.