2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, with a similar formula. It featured a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $56,500, plus a $1,075 destination charge, it offered a thrilling driving experience reminiscent of its predecessors. The IS 500 F Sport Performance was a blend of excitement and practicality, providing an emotional thrill ride when pushed hard, yet remaining docile and dependable in daily driving. Despite its higher price compared to other IS models, it offered a premium trim with features like triple-beam headlights, a navigation system, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. Its design was subtle, with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch wheels, emphasizing a stealthy yet powerful presence.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with a base price of $85,400, showcased a luxurious and stylish design. It featured a matte-blue paint finish, AMG styling, and larger wheels, exuding a sense of opulence. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet boasted high-end materials, including premium leather and carbon fiber trim, along with modern digital displays and a Burmester sound system. The convertible top added to its allure, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciated both luxury and performance. The E-Class Cabriolet was designed for those who wanted to flaunt their wealth and enjoy a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. It featured rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, with a limited-slip differential as standard. The car offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The IS 500's adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride and stability at higher speeds. Despite its weight distribution of 56% over the front wheels, the IS 500 delivered a thrilling driving experience, with a seductive engine note and impressive handling on winding roads. However, its fuel efficiency was a drawback, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine's power was available across a wide rev range, ensuring robust throttle response. The E53 Cabriolet accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, thanks to its AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system. The car offered multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, allowing drivers to switch between a comfortable cruiser and a performance-oriented machine. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced the driving experience, while the optional 20-inch wheels with summer performance tires provided excellent grip. The E53 Cabriolet excelled in both relaxed cruising and spirited driving, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance offered a comfortable interior with effective climate control, including seat heaters and a heated steering wheel. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, providing excellent support and a driver-focused position. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, but lacked smartphone charging. Storage was limited, with a small trunk space of 10.8 cubic feet. The control layout was intuitive, with buttons and knobs for easy access to functions, complemented by a touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet provided a luxurious interior with comfortable seating for four adults. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system ensured comfort in various weather conditions. The sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats added to the comfort. The triple-layer acoustic soft top helped maintain a quiet cabin. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of space with the top up, but reduced significantly with the top down. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance fragrance system enhanced long-distance comfort.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system, addressing previous ergonomic issues. The system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The dynamic voice command system was highly effective, handling queries accurately. The control layout was logical, with separate climate and stereo controls, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted the MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system was intuitive, with swipe and scroll functions on the steering wheel. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality. The system was customizable, but required familiarity with its menu structure. The digital assistant was responsive, though wind noise in the convertible could cause occasional confusion.

The 2022 Lexus IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, and low-speed automatic braking. The system was generally effective, though some features could be overly sensitive. The IS received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star frontal-impact rating.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for collisions and protecting hearing. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and other advanced features. The package was effective, with impressive adaptive cruise control and lane-change functionality.