The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Lexus GS are the middle children of their brands. As mid-size sedans, they are also the most common because they are a perfect combination of sport-compact mobility and full-size luxury, all adhered to a sensible price. When it comes to the C-Class vs. The GS, you can't go wrong either way. However, there are a few key differences between the two that might influence which sedan belongs in your garage.
The first place to look when comparing similar cars is under the hood. With the 3.5L V6 in the Lexus, you get more high-end power than the C-Class. We are big fans of horsepower at Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, but we also are big advocates for torque. Horsepower is great on a race track, but in everyday driving situations, torque is what gets you moving. Torque is more accessible at lower RPMs, making the E-Class agile at any speed.
2017 Mercedes-Benz E 300 Sedan |
VS |
2017 Lexus GS350 Sedan |
2.0L Turbo I4 | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
241 HP/273 lb-ft | Power | 311 HP/258 lb-ft |
9-Speed Automatic | Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
6.2 Seconds | 0-60 | 7.0 Seconds |
Aside from electrification and hybrid technology, the biggest focus in the automotive industry right now is driver assistance. As we get closer and closer to full autonomy, no other brand sticks out more than Mercedes-Benz, especially with the 2017 E-Class. The E 300 features the very latest in this technology and is the only vehicle in the industry to be labeled as semi-autonomous, thanks to Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT®. DRIVE PILOT® is a system of driver-assistance features that uses things such as DISTRONIC PLUS® adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE® braking, BLIND SPOT ASSIST®, LANE KEEPING ASSIST®, and many others.
These functions allow the E-Class to follow the flow of traffic, up to 124 miles per hour, even without street lines. The Lexus GS also comes with a handful of driver-assistance features, but not nearly as many as the E-Class. For this reason, we have to lean in favor of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class over the Lexus GS. If you have any questions about the 2017 E-Class, come to Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale today for a test drive.