Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class vs Lexus LC
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Coupes 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 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class starts from $104,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus LC opens at $198,400. That makes the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class the more affordable entry point by $93,500.
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 $115,390 and $218,240 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class by roughly $5,840 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Lexus LC hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class packs more ADAS features with 7 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 CLE-Class misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class stands out with panoramic roof, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus LC. The Lexus LC counters with heated front seats and ventilated seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class uses a Petrol producing 150kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8 seconds.
The Lexus LC responds with a Petrol making 351kW and 540Nm, paired to a 10-speed auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds.
The Lexus LC has the clear power advantage at 351kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus LC is 3.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class measures 4,850mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 80mm longer than the Lexus LC at 4,770mm (2,870mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus LC generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 385L in the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and 197L in the Lexus LC, giving the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class a 188L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
Based on 11.6m 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 $2,138/year for the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and $3,306/year for the Lexus LC. That is a $1,168 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class) vs $3,306 (Lexus LC). The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class saves you roughly $1,168 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus LC). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLE-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.
Buy the Lexus LC if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class will save you roughly $1,168 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Lexus LC?
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class is the cheapest at $104,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus LC by $93,500.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class uses the least fuel at 7.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Lexus LC all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class has the largest boot at 385L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,800kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus LC makes the most power at 351kW. The Lexus LC is quickest to 100km/h in 4.7s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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