The 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA and the Lexus IS are classified as different styles according to their respective brands, but they are actually very similar cars. From the sporty four-door look to the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, the two entry-level vehicles compete with each other at dealerships on an every-day basis. Which one is the better investment? Well, it depends.
The CLA is classified under the Mercedes-Benz brand as a four-door coupe. Because this is unique to the industry, Lexus doesn't classify the IS as such. Instead, it is a mid-size sedan with a performance heritage. The CLA style is much newer than the design of the Lexus IS, which could be the main reason for the higher efficiency numbers, although this is also aided by the fact that the CLA weighs in at a few hundred pounds less than the IS.
2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 | VS | 2017 Lexus IS200t |
$32,050 | MSRP | $37,325 |
208 HP | Horsepower | 241 HP |
3252 lbs. | Curb Weight | 3,583 lbs. |
26/38 City/Hwy | MPG | 22/33 City/Hwy |
At first glance, the CLA looks a lot smaller than the Lexus IS. This is true, but only in overall length and only by less than one inch. Actually the CLA is taller than the IS, but the difference in look comes from the extended wheelbase of the IS. It is about four inches longer than that of the CLA, and would potentially help with handling, but the surplus of weight on the IS renders the wheelbase advantage virtually obsolete.
Especially if you are looking for something efficient and stylish, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA is one of the best options on the market for luxury sport sedans, even if Mercedes-Benz calls it a coupe! The coupe design is a fresh new angle on the modern sports car and has proven to be very popular in the CLS as well. If you have any questions regarding the CLA or would like to take one for a test drive, contact us today at Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead! We look forward to hearing from you!