2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Lexus IS
Overview | |
MSRP$39,050 | MSRP$109,800 |
Listings171 | Listings196 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.3 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.5 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2021 Lexus IS Reviews SummaryThe Lexus IS enters its fourth generation of production, embodying lessons learned from the LC and RC. The 2021 IS targets enthusiast drivers and luxury buyers who might be thinking German first, and it seeks to recalibrate expectations of what a compact luxury sports sedan can be. | |
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews SummaryThe S-Class not only sits at the top of the Mercedes hierarchy in price and prestige, but it has also long served as a technological showcase. In the press release for the redesigned 2021 S-Class, Mercedes repeatedly noted the innovations—from anti-lock brakes to airbags—that were introduced on the big sedan and eventually trickled down to mainstream vehicles. With the previous generation dating back to the 2014 model year (with a significant update for 2018), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was in need of an update to maintain that status, and to keep pace with other full-size luxury sedans like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Lexus LS. To do that, the new S-Class gets a more sophisticated infotainment system, new powertrains, and more aerodynamic bodywork, among other features. The 2021 S-Class launches in two configurations, both with 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) and EQ Boost mild-hybrid systems. The S500 4Matic has a six-cylinder engine, while the S580 4Matic has a V8. We spent a few days with the Mercedes-Benz S580 for this review. A Mercedes-Maybach S680 4Matic version will follow in the first half of 2022, and you can expect a new AMG performance version sometime in the future as well. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 241 hp I4 | Engine3.0L 429 hp I6 |
Drive TrainRWD | Drive TrainAWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower241 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway29 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 241 hp I4 | Engine Name3.0L 429 hp I6 |
Torque258 lb-ft @ 1650 rpm | Torque384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
Horsepower241 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm |
DrivetrainRWD | DrivetrainAWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway29 |
Interior | |
Leather Seats | Leather SeatsOptional |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation System | Navigation SystemOptional |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofOptional |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space10.8 cu ft | Cargo Space12.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight3715 lbs | Curb Weight4740 lbs |
Height56.5 in | Height59.2 in |
Length185.4 in | Length208.2 in |
Width72.4 in | Width83.0 in |
Wheelbase110.2 in | Wheelbase126.6 in |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $39,050 | $109,800 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.3 out of 10Read full review | 7.5 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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Summary | The Lexus IS enters its fourth generation of production, embodying lessons learned from the LC and RC. The 2021 IS targets enthusiast drivers and luxury buyers who might be thinking German first, and it seeks to recalibrate expectations of what a compact luxury sports sedan can be. | The S-Class not only sits at the top of the Mercedes hierarchy in price and prestige, but it has also long served as a technological showcase. In the press release for the redesigned 2021 S-Class, Mercedes repeatedly noted the innovations—from anti-lock brakes to airbags—that were introduced on the big sedan and eventually trickled down to mainstream vehicles. With the previous generation dating back to the 2014 model year (with a significant update for 2018), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was in need of an update to maintain that status, and to keep pace with other full-size luxury sedans like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Lexus LS. To do that, the new S-Class gets a more sophisticated infotainment system, new powertrains, and more aerodynamic bodywork, among other features. The 2021 S-Class launches in two configurations, both with 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) and EQ Boost mild-hybrid systems. The S500 4Matic has a six-cylinder engine, while the S580 4Matic has a V8. We spent a few days with the Mercedes-Benz S580 for this review. A Mercedes-Maybach S680 4Matic version will follow in the first half of 2022, and you can expect a new AMG performance version sometime in the future as well. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 241 hp I4 | 3.0L 429 hp I6 |
Drive Train | RWD | AWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5800 rpm | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 29 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 241 hp I4 | 3.0L 429 hp I6 |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1650 rpm | 384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5800 rpm | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm |
Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 29 |
Interior | ||
Leather Seats | Optional | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Optional | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Optional | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 10.8 cu ft | 12.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3715 lbs | 4740 lbs |
Height | 56.5 in | 59.2 in |
Length | 185.4 in | 208.2 in |
Width | 72.4 in | 83.0 in |
Wheelbase | 110.2 in | 126.6 in |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Lexus IS is rated 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is rated 7 out of 10.
The 2021 Lexus IS presents an athletically proportioned and elegantly designed sedan that captures motion even when standing still. Its interior boasts a tastefully simple dash and bold, assertive choices, reflecting a modern aesthetic. The IS also offers a new touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
On the other hand, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a classic exterior design with a drag coefficient of 0.22, indicating exceptional aerodynamics. Its interior is equipped with advanced technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, along with a 30-speaker Burmester audio system and rear-seat infotainment setup.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Lexus IS 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10.
The 2021 Lexus IS offers a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 3.5-liter V6, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency. On the other hand, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine in the S500 4Matic and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S580 4Matic, providing impressive horsepower and torque figures.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Lexus IS 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 8 out of 10.
The 2021 Lexus IS offers a driver-centered focus on form and function, providing a comfortable and supportive seat, ample storage space, and adequate trunk space. In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasts increased front and rear headroom, more rear legroom, and a segment-leading shoulder room, along with luxurious power-adjustable front seats and a spacious center console.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Lexus IS 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10.
The 2021 Lexus IS now features a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with various connected services and a Mark Levinson premium surround-sound audio system. Meanwhile, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers an advanced MBUX infotainment system, augmented-reality head-up display, and personal profile setup with biometric or facial recognition.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Lexus IS 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 7 out of 10.
The 2021 Lexus IS comes equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features an industry-first rear-passenger airbag and a wide array of standard driver-assist features.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Lexus IS is 7.3 out of 10, while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the slightly more favorable choice, offering advanced technology, luxurious interior features, and a focus on spaciousness and comfort.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
- You value advanced technology and luxurious interior features, including a 30-speaker Burmester audio system and a spacious center console.
- You prioritize spaciousness and comfort, with increased front and rear headroom and a segment-leading shoulder room.
- You are willing to invest in a premium luxury sedan with a focus on advanced infotainment and driver-assist features.
Choose the 2021 Lexus IS if:
- You seek a well-balanced luxury sports sedan with a modern aesthetic and advanced infotainment system.
- You prioritize a competitive pricing range and a reputation for quality and reliability.
- You desire a comfortable and supportive driving experience with a focus on form and function.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Lexus IS is 7.3 out of 10, while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the slightly more favorable choice, offering advanced technology, luxurious interior features, and a focus on spaciousness and comfort.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
Shop Now- You value advanced technology and luxurious interior features, including a 30-speaker Burmester audio system and a spacious center console.
- You prioritize spaciousness and comfort, with increased front and rear headroom and a segment-leading shoulder room.
- You are willing to invest in a premium luxury sedan with a focus on advanced infotainment and driver-assist features.
Choose the 2021 Lexus IS if:
Shop Now- You seek a well-balanced luxury sports sedan with a modern aesthetic and advanced infotainment system.
- You prioritize a competitive pricing range and a reputation for quality and reliability.
- You desire a comfortable and supportive driving experience with a focus on form and function.
By: CarGurus + AI
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