Lexus LC vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Lexus LC starts from $198,400 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class opens at $105,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the more affordable entry point by $92,500.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $218,240 and $116,490 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mercedes-Benz E-Class by roughly $7,550 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus LC and Mercedes-Benz E-Class hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Lexus LC.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The Lexus LC adds a 360-degree camera that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus LC stands out with heated front seats, ventilated seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class counters with panoramic roof and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus LC uses a Petrol producing 351kW and 540Nm of torque, sent through a 10-speed auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.7 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class responds with a Petrol making 150kW and 320Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.3 seconds.
The Lexus LC has the clear power advantage at 351kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus LC is 3.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus LC measures 4,770mm long on a 2,870mm wheelbase, 179mm shorter than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class at 4,949mm (2,961mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 197L in the Lexus LC and 540L in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, giving the Mercedes-Benz E-Class a 343L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class seats 5 vs 4.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m diameter
Average
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $3,306/year for the Lexus LC and $1,796/year for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. That is a $1,510 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Estimated annual total: $3,306 (Lexus LC) vs $1,796 (Mercedes-Benz E-Class). The Mercedes-Benz E-Class saves you roughly $1,510 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus LC) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz E-Class). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus LC if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz E-Class if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class will save you roughly $1,510 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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