Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs Lexus ES

The 2026 Lexus ES underwent a significant transformation, marking the most dramatic change in its 37-year history. It grew in size, becoming 6.5 inches longer, 2.2 inches wider, and 4.5 inches taller than its predecessor, aligning more closely with the dimensions of the discontinued LS sedan. The styling took on a sharper, edgier look with flatter bodywork panels and angular lines, signaling a new design era for Lexus. The front featured a reduced spindle grille, and the profile showcased beveled surfaces, departing from the previous flowing curves. Inside, the ES embraced a modern, simplified layout with a broad horizontal dashboard and a large infotainment touchscreen. The interior materials were high-quality, though the hybrid model lacked the premium leather and bamboo trim available in the all-electric variant.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the AMG E 53 Hybrid, offered a performance-oriented upgrade with a base price of $94,700. It featured a height-adjustable Airmatic air suspension and was engineered for rapid road driving. The test car came with Pinnacle trim, 21-inch forged alloy wheels, and premium leather, elevating the MSRP to $114,590. The E-Class wagon stood out with its low-slung stance and rakish roofline, offering a refreshing alternative to the ubiquitous SUVs. Inside, the test vehicle boasted genuine Nappa leather, natural grain wood trim, and a comprehensive digital instrumentation panel. However, the metallic surfaces could become uncomfortably hot, and the screens and piano-black surfaces were prone to collecting dust and fingerprints.

The 2026 Lexus ES 350h was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine producing 244 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that sent power to the front wheels, with an all-wheel-drive option available. Lexus estimated the front-drive model could accelerate to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, while the AWD version could achieve it in 7.1 seconds. The ES prioritized comfort over performance, offering a smooth ride but leisurely acceleration. The brake pedal provided a seamless transition between regenerative and physical braking, and the handling was adequate but not sporty. The soft suspension absorbed bumps effectively, ensuring a quiet and comfortable highway experience.

The AMG E 53 Hybrid Wagon, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a 120-kilowatt electric motor and a 21.2-kilowatt-hour battery. The total system output was 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, with the ability to reach 604 hp with Race Start active. Mercedes claimed a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds. The wagon offered an EPA-rated 41 miles of electric range and 22 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The AMG-enhanced hardware included a nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic AWD, and adaptive damping suspension. Despite its weight, the E-Class wagon delivered exceptional performance, though the brakes were inconsistent. The ride was firm but managed road imperfections well, and the tires provided excellent grip. The power was impressive, especially in Sport or Sport+ mode, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2026 Lexus ES offered increased rear legroom by 1.4 inches, providing ample space for taller passengers, though the sloping roofline could limit headroom. The front seats were spacious, with average storage options. The trunk, with a capacity of 17.4 cubic feet, was wide and useful, though the rear seatbacks did not fold for additional cargo space.

The AMG E 53 Hybrid wagon provided up to 33.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The wagon's lower roofline could be a liability for loading larger items, but the heated front seats were comfortable. The Multicontour Seating Package added features like rapid-heating, ventilation, and massagers. However, the E-Class wagon felt snug compared to the GLE SUV, with limited rear legroom and challenging entry and exit due to its low stance. Interior storage was limited, with cupholders blocking the wireless phone charger.

The 2026 Lexus ES featured the latest infotainment system with a 14-inch touchscreen and customizable widgets. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 10-speaker audio system. The Premium+ trim offered a Mark Levinson 17-speaker surround-sound system and a digital key feature. The integrated Drive Recorder provided a multi-camera dash cam, though the save function could be distracting.

The AMG E 53 Hybrid wagon's dashboard included a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Superscreen option added a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the passenger, though it collected fingerprints and dust. The MBUX system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, augmented reality navigation, and a Burmester 4D surround-sound system. The natural-language digital voice assistant performed well, though it struggled with specific requests. The touch-sensing steering wheel controls were less precise than traditional knobs and buttons, and the gesture control system was inconsistent.

The 2026 Lexus ES came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, including features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure mitigation. The Premium+ trim added a surround-view camera system, head-up display, and other advanced safety features. The lane departure warning was overly sensitive, and the Proactive Driving Assist was intrusive.

The Mercedes E-Class offered limited standard safety tech, including high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 16 additional systems, such as adaptive cruise control and active lane-change assist. The safety features operated smoothly and transparently, providing a refined driving experience. The active braking technology was effective, though the route-based speed adaptation feature was disliked.