To discerning patrons who prize compactness as extremely as consolation in a luxurious sedan, the 2026 Lexus IS and 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class are value a glance. Two perennial class favorites, they every have their deserves. However their personalities are totally different sufficient that many patrons, after a pair of take a look at drives, may have a transparent favourite.
The present technology of the IS stands out as the extra venerable of the 2 opponents, as Lexus refreshed it for 2021 after seven years. However Mercedes-Benz redesigned and upgraded the C-Class sedan for the 2022 mannequin yr. Each have been up to date yearly since, conserving them up to date and loaded with excessive tech.
Let’s discover the highlights of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Lexus IS to see which compact luxurious sedan appeals to you.
2026 Lexus IS
Lexus drastically simplified selections for IS buyers within the 2026 mannequin yr. The automobile was lengthy supplied with a alternative of three engines, however now comes with only one — a 311-horsepower V6. It is available in rear- or all-wheel drive (RWD or AWD), and each trim stage will get look upgrades from the Lexus F Sport efficiency lineup, in addition to the choice of an F Sport Dealing with Package deal. However this can be the final yr for the IS. Lexus constructed an “final version” in 2025 — often an indication {that a} manufacturing run is ending — and lower 4- and 8-cylinder engine choices from the lineup.
Lexus IS Highlights
Traditional styling: This can be a matter of style, however the IS will attraction to patrons preferring feeling like they’re driving a automobile quite than helming a console aboard the starship Enterprise. The outside design continues to be sharp and continues to be the perfect it’s ever appeared.
Resale worth: Resale worth is a Lexus calling card as a result of Lexus holds its worth higher than most luxurious manufacturers, even the much-coveted Mercedes-Benz. We suppose there’s one thing to be mentioned for not being on the vanguard of know-how — that, and high quality craftsmanship and dependability.
Mark Levinson Sound: Audiophiles take be aware — the non-compulsory 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system obtainable within the IS is without doubt one of the finest you’ll discover on this class.
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the IS fashions close to you.
2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup begins with the C 300, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 255-hp ranking. This mild-hybrid engine {couples} to a 9-speed automated transmission that may additionally switch energy to the rear wheels solely or all of them concurrently. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system can electrically ship one other 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque for fast bursts. Mercedes additionally provides a pair of high-performance AMG fashions, considerably extra highly effective and considerably costlier.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Highlights
Hello-tech cockpit: The C-Class has arguably probably the most tech-forward cabins within the compact sedan section. Its MBUX (Mercedes-Benz Consumer Expertise) system can be taught routines and automate a few of your preferences. Need a automobile that routinely activates the heated steering wheel and seats when the temperature is beneath freezing? You may program that into the C-Class.
Mercedes-AMG fashions: AMG modes are expensive, however Lexus has nothing to compete with them. C-Class patrons can go for 416 hp and 670 hp variations that look aggressive with intensive purposeful vents and have tighter dealing with.
Biometric fingerprint scanner: Emphasizing the excessive tech of the C-Class, each trim stage offers this cutting-edge entry to the personalized-settings profile of every programmed person.
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the C-Class fashions close to you.
Similarities
These each are available in RWD or AWD, are supplied with efficiency upgrades to enhance dealing with, and carry practically an identical warranties.
Pricing
New 2026 Lexus IS Costs
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Retail Value
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Honest Buy Value (92620)
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TBD
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TBD
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TBD
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TBD
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New 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Costs
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Retail Value
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Honest Buy Value (92620)
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$50,900
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$48,400
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$52,900
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$49,700
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The Kelley Blue Guide Honest Buy Value for any particular person used automobile can fluctuate significantly based on mileage, situation, location, and different elements.
The costs right here replicate what patrons are at the moment paying for New 2026 Lexus IS autos and New 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class autos in typical situation when buying from a dealership.
These costs are up to date weekly. The producer’s steered retail value (MSRP) quoted consists of the vacation spot charge, however doesn’t embrace tax, license, doc charges, and choices.
Specs
| 2026 Lexus IS | 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | |
| Standard Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 311 hp @ 6,600 rpm | 255 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automated, 6-speed | automated, 9-speed 9g-tronic |
| Gasoline Economic system | N/A | 25 metropolis/35 freeway/29 mixed mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Primary Guarantee | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Guarantee | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA General Security | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 110.2 inches | 112.8 inches |
| General Size | 185.4 inches | 187.0 inches |
| Width | N/A | 80.0 inches |
| Top | 56.7 inches | 56.6 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 35.4 toes | 37.6 toes |
| Headroom, Entrance | 38.2 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 36.9 inches | 37.5 inches |
| Legroom, Entrance | 44.8 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 32.2 inches | 36.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Entrance | 55.9 inches | 56.3 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 53.4 inches | 55.6 inches |
| Cargo capability | 10.8 cubic toes | 11.6 cubic toes |
Specification desk displays the standard configuration of autos proven.
Conclusion
The 2026 Lexus IS carries a decrease beginning value and holds its worth higher over time. We predict it seems sportier, and its decrease beginning value means you possibly can add sporty choices just like the F Sport Dealing with bundle with out paying AMG costs. It’s possible the proper alternative for a lot of patrons.
MBUX makes the C-Class really feel slightly extra tech-forward, and a few buyers are drawn to the Mercedes title. These are legitimate causes to desire the C-Class if the Lexus worth argument doesn’t sway you.
