AutoExpress: Lexus IS250 vs Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor

cawimmer430 submitted on 10/03/2007 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 8:21 AM
from: www.autoexpress.co.uk

Tags: AutoExpress: Lexus IS250 vs Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor

With sharper styling, Mercedes' new C-Class is aiming to attract a host of younger buyers. We see how the petrol version fares against Lexus' IS250

IT comes as no surprise that the new Mercedes C-Class is making waves in the compact executive class. The latest model’s sharp lines and athletic look should certainly help attract more youthful buyers from its biggest rivals, BMW and Audi.

We’ve already driven and tested a four-cylinder diesel model (see Issue 964) and were mightily impressed. Now we aim to find out whether the petrol equivalent is as good and can match the very high standards set by the oil-burner.

The C200K is powered by an improved version of the 1.8-litre supercharged engine from the previous model. This unit is also used in the entry-level C180K, but power is increased from 154bhp to 181bhp.

With prices starting at £24,117 for the SE model, it’s one of the least expensive routes to C-Class ownership. We’re testing the comfort-biased Elegance spec, which adds £1,195 to the base model’s price.

Standing in its way is another car that majors on refinement – the Lexus IS250. As well as a more powerful V6 engine, this range-topping SE-L model also has a higher price tag than the Mercedes, at £29,627.

Both are well equipped and packed with the latest technology, both in the cabin and under the skin. So, which one should you opt for if you want to create a stir in the company car park? Read on to find out...

Mercedes C200K

Want proof of how important the new C-Class is to Mercedes? Well, before launch, it completed the most comprehensive test programme in the company’s history. Over three-and-a-half years, pre-production examples clocked up more than 15 million miles across the globe.

Considering it’s the best-selling model in the firm’s line-up, with more than 1.4 million cars finding homes worldwide since 2000, Mercedes clearly had to get the new version exactly right, especially as it has to compete with ever-increasing competition in the compact executive sector.

In terms of looks, it echoes the luxury S-Class, with chunky wheelarches and a wedge-shaped front end. The short overhangs and bluff nose give it a more athletic profile than its predecessor – and the IS – while the rising swage lines on the flanks have echoes of the BMW 3-Series. We think it’s a real success, and should help the C-Class bring its image bang up to date.

There have been some sweeping changes inside, too. The C-Class is bigger than before and has a longer wheelbase than the Lexus, so it feels more spacious, particularly in the rear, with decent leg and headroom. The boot is also more generous and user-friendly than its rival’s.

Thanks to a superb driving position and plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel, the cabin up front is also more spacious than the Lexus’s. But there are some criticisms. Considering it’s an executive saloon, we were disappointed by some of the plastics used. While the fit and finish is top notch, the cabin seems slightly utilitarian and lacks a sense of occasion. Overall, though, it’s a clean and unfussy design, while the switchgear has a quality touch to it.

The engine is a pleasant surprise. We’ve never been truly convinced by the supercharged four-cylinder Kompressor units that Mercedes has used for years, but this version of the 1.8-litre powerplant helps redress that. Modifications to the high-output motor now mean it has 181bhp, an extra 20bhp, and generates its maximum 250Nm of torque at 2,800rpm. Fuel economy and performance are also improved.

It feels punchy enough low down, and although lacking a decent engine note, it’s surprisingly responsive when mated to the five-speed auto gearbox. At the test track, it was a second behind the more powerful IS from 0-60mph, but a result of nine seconds means it’s no slouch.

Out on the road, the C200K is more willing than its Japanese rival and doesn’t have to be worked as hard as the V6 in the Lexus. Wind and road noise are impressively low at speed, but the best aspect of the Merc is its excellent ride.

Even over extremely rough roads it copes effortlessly, but that doesn’t mean it’s soft through bends. The standard Agility Control selective damping system ensures that body control and stability are both excellent without compromising comfort. It’s a shame, then, that the steering lacks sharpness and feels light at high speeds.

You would expect a premium brand such as Mercedes to charge high prices, but this mid-range C200 Elegance costs £26,407, which is £3,000 less than the Lexus. Standard equipment totals are fairly comparable, too, although our example did come with £4,000 worth of options, which took the final asking price above the £30,000 mark.

Lexus IS250

Traditionally, the first ports of call for anyone wanting a prestige sports saloon were BMW, Audi and Mercedes. But you can now add Lexus to that list. The premium spin-off from Toyota first introduced the IS range to the UK in 1999 and quickly established itself as a strong contender.

The second-generation model has further enhanced the firm’s reputation, and although brand image may not quite be up to Mercedes standards yet, the Japanese firm isn’t far behind. Styling is a key factor and the IS boasts a definite European flavour to its lines.

We’re not totally convinced by the shape, though. While the sharp nose looks good and the high waistline gives a solid air, the rather large rump seems ungainly and the tail-lights aren’t particularly stylish. It’s distinctive, although not quite as memorable as the athletic Mercedes.

But while the appearance is European, the interior is typically Japanese. There are some disappointing similarities with Toyota models, and the silver plastics on the centre console feel dated, even if the layout is simple and the controls intuitive. The standard leather trim is plush and build quality is a match for the Merc, but while everything is more tactile than in the C-Class, there are some big criticisms.

The seating is too high, restricting headroom for taller drivers, there’s a lack of storage on the centre console and some of the buttons are hidden away at knee level. And it’s no better in the back. Head and legroom aren’t great and footspace is tight, limited further by the large transmission tunnel. The boot is also very small.

However, push the engine start button, and things improve. The 2.5-litre V6 powerplant is one of the smoothest we’ve ever driven. There’s virtually no vibration, and noise is well suppressed.

At the test track, the Lexus was almost a second quicker from 0-60mph, with a sprint time of 8.1 seconds, although it was only marginally faster in kickdown. The reason for this is that while its 252Nm of torque beats the C200K’s 250Nm, it doesn’t peak until 4,800rpm – 2,000rpm further up the rev range than the Mercedes. So in everyday conditions, the IS seems a little sluggish, which isn’t helped by its extra kerbweight. The six-speed automatic box doesn’t provide much feedback, either, although the upshifts are virtually seamless.

Refinement is the IS’s strong point. Great insulation means the cabin is silent at speed, and although there is tyre noise on the motorway, it makes a superb long-distance cruiser. At idle, the IS was 3dB quieter than the C-Class’s 41dB, and it was also more hushed at 70mph. The ride is excellent, too, even if the rear suspension can become slightly unsettled on uneven roads.

The handling isn’t as involving as the Mercedes’, but it’s well balanced, and the IS feels agile. It’s let down somewhat by the electric power-steering, which is artificial and lacks feedback, but body roll is kept in check.

The Lexus isn’t cheap, though. At nearly £30,000, it carries a hefty premium over the C-Class. The options list isn’t as extensive as the Merc’s and kit is pretty expensive, too. For example, sat-nav will set you back £2,710, but that also includes parking sensors and Bluetooth. Will this high price count against it at the final verdict?

VERDICT

1st Mercedes C200K

2nd Lexus IS250

While both of these saloons make most sense as diesels, the petrol versions still have plenty to offer. The IS’s V6 has more character than the C-Class’s four-cylinder engine, but isn’t any pacier, unless pushed hard. The IS250 costs more in SE-L trim, too, and it doesn’t ride as well, either.

Yet these aren’t the only reasons why the Mercedes takes victory. The new C-Class is simply more talented. Yes, the cabin is plain and finished in brittle plastics, but it has extra room, plus the driving position is better and the boot bigger. What’s more, the C200K offers a smooth ride, sharp steering and excellent composure in corners – the Lexus is uninvolving in comparison.

But that’s not to say the C-Class is perfect; it lacks a little sparkle, and the engine isn’t best suited to an auto. Additionally, this model costs the same as the more frugal – and tempting – C200 CDI diesel. Nevertheless, the C200K is cheaper than the IS250 SE-L and comes generously equipped. The IS has always been renowned for comfort, and that’s still the case: for refinement, the Lexus is unsurpassed. But against the C-Class, that’s not enough. Read Article

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Bill - 10/3/2007 9:41:50 AM

Show Comment -24 Boost

Bill - 10/3/2007 4:00:59 PM

+1 Boost

-20? Wow!

And to think I was trying to sound like a Lexus fanboy...

dlin - 10/3/2007 10:42:57 PM

-2 Boost

Don't be stupid. Lexus is just first year there. And look at how much more expensive those car are on the list you quoted. May I ask, where are BMW 3, 5, or 7? You cannot use that stupid list to prove anything.

Based on the IS test drive compared to my 3 series, I'll say the major mistake that LEXUS made, and a really big one, is to put electronic handling system on IS. Had they put in hydraulic system, it'll be totally different result.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:30:24 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

dlin, I didn't know these cars were so much more money than the IS250 X:

"9th: Ford Mondeo 2.5T

8th: Mercedes C350

7th: Renaultsport Megane R26"

The BMW M3 is on there. Don't make yourself look foolish.

dlin - 10/7/2007 10:32:56 PM

+2 Boost

My bad. I must've been absent-minded when I was typing.

Anyway, hard to believe Ferrari and Evo are not on the list while there are Ford, Renault, Lambo, and 2 Merc. This can be any list but driver's, and it is therefore, not very "proper". Black series is a great concept, but C350? I've never come across any magazine claiming Merc has finally put up driving enjoyment in front of luxury for its main production line. Although I do sincerely wish so as I like Merc's styling better.

EnnNorak - 10/4/2007 3:17:37 AM

0 Boost

The new C has seats that are too firm and a ride that is too harsh. The new front end looks good but is too close to the ground for parking nose first to the curb.

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kpaxx - 10/3/2007 10:25:31 AM

+4 Boost

The new C-class is one of those cars that really impresses when you see it and drive it. I'm not sure if MB is still fighting the stodgy old guy car image but the new C especially handsome and sporting.

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Bill - 10/3/2007 10:38:47 AM

+8 Boost

Apparently the taxi is sportier than the "refined sports sedan".

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vtandon - 10/3/2007 2:53:04 PM

+4 Boost

The only refined excellent sports sedan is the C Class(besides all the AMGs models). Lexus cant even compete with Mercedes. They have been trying ever since the company was formed and they never will. High networth consumers still consider Mercedes the ultimate luxury car. Lexus is just a poor man Mercedes. Dont get me wrong, I give them credit for being good in their quality, but thats all. Lexus has never come up with anything innovative. All they do is take whatever the competition is doing and try to make it better.

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I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 10/3/2007 10:37:47 AM

+1 Boost

Am i the only one who thinks this review is a bit Warped ????

First he states the C200 is 24+K GBP, then states that the model they tested was worth OVER 30k GBP

Then he states the IS SEL version is more expensive at 29k

WTF !!!!!!!!!

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Rupert - 10/3/2007 11:36:16 AMView My AgentSpace

+5 Boost

THe model they tested had 4k of options, without them it is less than the Lexus.

Catsmeow - 10/3/2007 10:40:50 AM

+5 Boost

Benz has me won over

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Kinger - 10/3/2007 11:15:10 AM

0 Boost

You'd know all about crudeness and cheap quality alright RICEMASTER

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1995e34 - 10/3/2007 11:01:07 AM

+1 Boost

i like that the benz has 2 different faces to choose from.

great job benz.

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Bill - 10/3/2007 11:12:12 AM

+1 Boost

I find it interesting that this C-Class Elegance model is sportier than the IS. Imagine the Sport version of the C-Class!

Hyundai - 10/3/2007 12:03:24 PM

-6 Boost

Imagine that the IS 250 X-package was sportier than the 335i!

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:33:51 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

It's not. Edmunds.com saying it's faster around the slalom doesn't mean it's "sportier," LOL. Edmunds has some of the most inconsistent track/straight line times of any online car site or magazine- and no, don't call me biased. They've gotten bad times for the RS4, 911, S6, 335i, etc... some have been faster than normal, but most have been slower.

What Lexus has done with the IS befuddles me. They COULD'VE made an IS350 X-Package with a manual transmission, which would actually be a real threat to the 3 Series. Of course, that would've made too much sense, so they won't do it.

dlin - 10/7/2007 8:00:11 PM

+1 Boost

How funny if you know Edmund's Chief Road Test Editor, Chris Walton, used to be the senior road tester of the only US magazine that I believe for car testing, Motor Trend.

I do agree they should've put that X-package onto IS350. However, anything takes time.

LexSucks - 10/3/2007 11:34:11 AM

-4 Boost

Both cars are slow. Who cares? This is a comparison test of two cars that were made for folks who could care less about performance. Both cars are slow, and have weak underpowered engines. I'd seriously consider a Honda Accord or a G35 over any of those 2 slow underperforming cars.

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Kinger - 10/3/2007 11:50:39 AM

+3 Boost

Actually the top Accord model we get here in Europe is a 2.4 with 190bhp which does 0-60 in 9 seconds, not any faster really. We don't get the G35 here yet.

Hyundai - 10/3/2007 12:04:41 PM

-2 Boost

Much rather prefer an A4 2.0T.

M35MT - 10/3/2007 12:22:18 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

There are several options that are less expensive and faster. The trade off is refinement, style, luxury, prestiege, etc.

LexSucks - 10/3/2007 5:59:03 PM

-1 Boost

Refinement? Have you ever seen the new C-Classes interior? And the Lexus isn't any better IMO. I'll take the G35 over both of those cars in a heartbeat. The interior of the Infiniti appears to be of better quality than especially the Benz, and the G35 will destroy both of those cars in every performance measurement. I’m sorry but those cars don’t offer any performance and the luxury isn’t any better than a V6 Honda Accord. But hey, they have the name.

Bill - 10/4/2007 4:31:29 AM

0 Boost

LexSucks,

These are LOWER END luxury cars for people who are looking for the basics. Obviously you need to be pampered which means these cars are not for you.

Bottom line: shut up.

LexSucks - 10/4/2007 9:41:07 AM

0 Boost

Bill,

I don’t need to be pampered. I just need a car that can provide more forward thrust than a Corolla (Especially when you are spending close to $40,000). And that car also has to provide more luxury than cars that cost $10,000 less. I guess there’s something wrong with that?

To each his own dude. Some people prefer to spend premium dollars for perceived luxury and weak performance while some people actually expect the car to deliver. Get a clue. There is absolutely nothing about those cars that makes them special. But hey, whatever floats your boat

M35MT - 10/3/2007 12:19:56 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Luckily, MB dropped the 1.8 from the range here in the states. I am VERY eager to drive the new (to us) V6 that produces 220-something HP. In the sport trim, this car is drop-dead GORGEOUS. It is also offered with the 4Matic in the sport trim!! (Although still not manual with 4Matic, only w/ 2WD).

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M35MT - 10/3/2007 12:24:39 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I have to add the fact that when I first saw the new interior in the C-class, I wasn't impressed. It has grown on me since, and I am starting to like the flip-up nav screen - although unecessary...it looks cool.

LexSucks - 10/3/2007 6:00:11 PM

-4 Boost

220hp? What is this 1990?

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:35:45 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

LexSucks, the IS250 has a 204hp engine, the A4 2.0T is being upgraded to 220hp, the 328i has 230hp, the C300 has 228hp... that's good power for this segment.

david999 - 10/3/2007 12:53:48 PM

-11 Boost

In European reviews, a Tata would score better then a Lexus. What nonsense.

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Kinger - 10/3/2007 1:04:30 PM

+6 Boost

Lexus tends to cater to American tastes, which probably explains why they don't do well in reviews over here. Still, the review didn't seem biased, they listed both cars good points and short-comings.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:37:46 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

david, please, please, please stop. Such hypocrisy. Whenever the Lexus doesn't win in a European publication, you call it biased.

It's NOT. Can you ever just accept the fact that the new C is a fantastic car and it probably out-classes the Lexus?

david999 - 10/4/2007 7:45:22 AM

-1 Boost

A C200, no.

SevorbeupstryIsBack - 10/3/2007 1:00:45 PM

+6 Boost

"In terms of looks, it echoes the luxury S-Class, with chunky wheelarches and a wedge-shaped front end. The short overhangs and bluff nose give it a more athletic profile than its predecessor – and the IS – while the rising swage lines on the flanks have echoes of the BMW 3-Series. We think it’s a real success, and should help the C-Class bring its image bang up to date."

I agree.

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SevorbeupstryIsBack - 10/3/2007 1:01:34 PM

+1 Boost

Isn't there a C230 with a comparable V6 engine?

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SevorbeupstryIsBack - 10/3/2007 1:03:26 PM

+6 Boost

"Out on the road, the C200K is more willing than its Japanese rival and doesn’t have to be worked as hard as the V6 in the Lexus. Wind and road noise are impressively low at speed, but the best aspect of the Merc is its excellent ride."

This is exactly what Mercs are all about!

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M35MT - 10/3/2007 1:28:40 PMView My AgentSpace

+6 Boost

I absolutely love the smooth, secure feeling of a benz at high speeds. Great highway cars. Someday I may trade up raw performance just for this...

kpaxx - 10/3/2007 3:07:04 PM

+5 Boost

MB truly knows how to match different engine types to a car and design intention. Very few Manufacturers do this correctly

xj13 - 10/3/2007 11:38:37 PM

+3 Boost

Spot on.

M35MT - 10/3/2007 1:30:04 PMView My AgentSpace

-1 Boost

dont be a douche...

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SevorbeupstryIsBack - 10/4/2007 5:59:09 PM

+1 Boost

MidEngine is right..

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EL34 - 10/3/2007 1:21:26 PM

+1 Boost

Since the Lexus IS250 is a mid size car in Japan then it would be the perfect Taxi for getting around Osaka, Japan or Ogallah, Kansas.

The Mercedes on the other hand is the perfect car for driving up Pacific Coast Highway from Dana Point to Laguna Beach to have dinner at "Dizz's As Is" (my favorite restaurant).

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david999 - 10/3/2007 1:29:01 PM

-7 Boost

Unless it breaks down. Remember, Mercedes is rated DEAD LAST for reliability.

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Kinger - 10/3/2007 1:37:30 PM

+4 Boost

Mercedes is currently on a huge drive to improve their quality: http://www.whatcar.co.uk/news-article.aspx?NA=218083

From the article above:
"Want proof of how important the new C-Class is to Mercedes? Well, before launch, it completed the most comprehensive test programme in the company’s history. Over three-and-a-half years, pre-production examples clocked up more than 15 million miles across the globe."

david999 - 10/3/2007 3:17:25 PM

-7 Boost

Check the latest Consumer Reports. Mercedes rated LAST based on real people that drive them.

Bill - 10/3/2007 4:03:03 PM

+4 Boost

What's the difference between David999 and David989? I see none. Both are diehard Lexus fanboys.

Bill - 10/3/2007 4:03:27 PM

+2 Boost

What's the difference between David999 and David989? I see none. Both are diehard Lexus fanboys.

david999 - 10/3/2007 6:08:19 PM

-6 Boost

I like all cars, but I do have a particular fondness for Lexus vehicles.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:40:25 PMView My AgentSpace

+4 Boost

david999, the "huge" reliability gap between the highest (Lexus) and lowest (Land Rover) is a whopping +/-3.5 problems EVERY THREE YEARS.

xj13 - 10/3/2007 11:51:51 PM

+2 Boost

get a life.

david999 - 10/4/2007 7:49:07 AM

-2 Boost

S4,
a good friend of mine is the Sales Manager at a Land Rover dealership. Believe me, that is a HUGE difference.

flozel1 - 10/3/2007 1:38:20 PM

-13 Boost

Let's see...the Lexus is a full second quicker, it's about a thousand times better looking (anyone who says the C design is better is blatantly LYING).

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M35MT - 10/3/2007 1:50:29 PMView My AgentSpace

-5 Boost

The luxury model is pictured. I agree, the IS looks better. The new C sport model, however, is on par with the IS's sharp design.

Kinger - 10/3/2007 1:52:09 PM

+5 Boost

I prefer the sport model of the C-class to the IS looks wise, its called an opinion. Just because you don't like how it looks doesn't mean everyone else will.

Also the fact that its nearly a second quicker doesn't dispell the fact that the C-class was rated better in several other areas.

EL34 - 10/3/2007 1:54:19 PM

+8 Boost

Com'on now, the Lexus is not a good looking car.

It has boy racer written all over it and 90% of the population finds that styling to be obnoxious.

Bill - 10/3/2007 4:04:38 PM

+1 Boost

Design is subjective. Personally I think the IS looks terrible. Unproportioned left and right.

M35MT - 10/3/2007 4:09:04 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

Styling is subjective. And you pulled 90% out of your ass. I would rather have the C300 sport. But the IS is a great looking car. The IS-F, on the other hand, looks tacky.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:43:07 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I love the looks of the IS350- those wheels finish the design perfectly, as the cherry on top of the sundae. However, I feel that the Merc looks amazing in every trim- the design is nearly flawless. On the other hand, the IS250 doesn't look impressive on the road because of its ugly wheels.

c36amg - 10/3/2007 1:51:20 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

hahahahahahhaa.... there is the obvious.... mercedes is a big step ahead of lexus..... no need to do any comparison.... just ask me.... ;)

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TheSailor - 10/3/2007 2:21:44 PMView My AgentSpace

-1 Boost

I don't know here... The IS250 is quite anemic, but the C200K ain't exactly a rocket either! If I was forced by someone to choose between the two, I think I'd take the IS... Though there is an angle from which the IS looks a little weird, it has a somewhat interesting design... The C-class is unoffensive, but there is nothing interesting about the design!

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Rupert - 10/3/2007 5:34:43 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

You're back!
How was Singapore? (right?)

TheSailor - 10/3/2007 5:51:24 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Singapore was just for a few hours... Been all over the place... Dubai, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Japan, USA, Canada and more... Most of the time it was pretty hot... The rest of the time it was pretty cold (passing through the Berings Sea from Canada to Japan)...

Htay7500 - 10/3/2007 7:19:33 PM

+1 Boost

yay your back.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:45:55 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

The C actually looks stunning on the road. I thought it would be bland, too, but I was wrong. Have you seen it?

TheSailor - 10/4/2007 2:49:23 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Yes... I've seen several... And I think "stunning" is an overstatement... It looks good, don't get me wrong, but it is just a little conservative for my taste... But I'm more of a BMW-guy anyway, I've never really liked Mercedes... Except for the SLR that is! :D

SevorbeupstryIsBack - 10/4/2007 6:04:31 PM

+1 Boost

Welcome back Sailor.

I agree with you the C-class looks a bit boring and safe. But that is exactly what it should look like.
In Europe, the most popular version will be the small diesels in Classic form. It's the perfect company car.

But Mercedes hasn't forgotten the enthusiast either..

If you want a hot-looking C, get an Avantgarde with AMG-package. Totally different car.

S4cabriofoxone - 10/5/2007 1:07:36 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I completely disagree, Sailor. I hate the SLR. It's ugly, heavy, flawed and overpriced. I'd much rather have an R8, an AM V8 Roadster, an S550 and a GT3 RS at that price.

Porschinator - 10/3/2007 2:50:08 PM

+5 Boost

Big surprise. Lexus fanboys are calling foul. Don't worry, I am sure you will have your chance to give praise when an article is in favor of Lexus. Actually no doubt there...lol. Of course it boils down to preference and can hope all comparos are from non-biased experts.

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1995e34 - 10/3/2007 3:38:14 PM

+3 Boost

190e was a classic. i'm suprised you know what it is.

ICON - 10/3/2007 8:26:58 PM

+4 Boost

Let's face facts nicad, your working on maybe getting a new skateboard that is about it.
You are a loooong way from making an adult decision with regards to buying an auto or having an intelligent conversation.

Nice job Merc on the new C-class...

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Porschinator - 10/3/2007 3:07:14 PM

+2 Boost

I noticed in the article they swapped interior pics in the pics section...lol. The MB won because it has better road feel and feedback. I rather keep my 997S than a SL550 because the 550 has less feedback and too electronic. The Porsche feels better to me and prefer it. Some peeps prefer the opposite.

This article does not bash the IS. It is comparing the whole and not just one perspective, like 0 - 60 numbers. If that was the case then I know 69 Camaros that can blow out any Most MBs and all Lexus models.

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mmeecc - 10/3/2007 3:12:11 PM

+4 Boost

nicad

Just get a Lexus, you'll get tons of torture!!!

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S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:48:23 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

Wow, I feel bad for you. I wouldn't want to be driving around in a casket like the LS430 for years. Wow... I'm getting tired just thinking about it.

EL34 - 10/3/2007 3:14:24 PM

+2 Boost

In 2008, I predict the Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse will outsell the pointy Lexus and leave it in the dust with the garbage cans!

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mmeecc - 10/3/2007 3:32:25 PM

+1 Boost

EL34

Your predictions will soon be reality my friend, then what will nicad, houstoncutie and david have to say.... They'll probably start saying Lexus has nicer colors available.
Mercedes will even dominate the lower-end luxury market, I must admit I feel a little sorry for them.
There will soon be a huge job boom for therapists for widespread LexusFan depressions and isolationists.

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Star - 10/3/2007 3:38:24 PM

+2 Boost

Lexus fans should be happy just for seeing that their second rate brand is even compared with the mighty Mercedes. ANY comparison between a Lexus and a Mercedes will have the Mercedes as winner that's not hard to guess. As hard as the Japanese makers have tried they never quite succeeded in creating a real Japanese luxury sedan. I hope they learn from their mistakes and from these comparisons, and maybe someday they will be able to build cars as good as Mercedes or BMW. Good luck Lexus!

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S4cabriofoxone - 10/3/2007 11:53:22 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

"Oh really. The LS430 beated the W220 S-Class in EVERY comparison test that included both. The same is true for the IS350 and the W203 C-Class. The Mercedes never even won once."

Okay, but it's the present now. And now, the S and C-Class are better than the LS and IS, that's it, case closed.

"lmao you're such a clown. only the S class has been able to compete with the LS in the vast majority of tests i've read. LS staight up destoyed everything else."

Really? Please, post a few here where it "destoyed" the competition. Because it seems to be that--by the C/D article--EVERYTHING in its class is better. Prove me wrong, I dare you.

I love the LS but you're making me hate... you.

Every car in this class is amazing. They would have to work nonstop for ten years on the next-gen LS for it to "destoy everything else." The XJ is elegant, light and sporty. The A8 is gorgeous and does everything well. The LS is quietly sleek and has a mind-boggling array of luxury features. The S-Class is like the A8- only amplified to do everything better, and with worse gas mileage. The 7 Series... is the odd man out. I think that it's the only one that I would just never buy. I'd take a 5 Series instead, definitely.

Lexus - 10/3/2007 3:54:04 PM

-6 Boost

Heritage and Prestige does NOT does not have same respect like they have in the 70s-90s. Realiability, quality, design and cool gadget is what count nowday. So Lexus IS win hand down, how