Lexus IS 300 AWD vs Mercedes CLA 250 4Matic Comparison

Apples to Apples?

The refreshed 2021 Lexus IS has thus far been a hit with critics and car shoppers alike, proving that you can indeed teach an old dog (or platform) new tricks. Currently, a number of outlets are pitting the new IS against pretty much everything else out there, and today, that includes Canada's Driving, which recently compared the IS 300 AWD with the Mercedes CLA 250 4Matic.

Impressive Cabin

The rag came away impressed with both of these vehicles, noting that both offer "excellent driving dynamics, engaging tech, and upscale style." Perhaps unsurprisingly, Driving prefers the CLA's interior to the IS, and we can't blame them for that. After all, Mercedes' latest cabin design is very modern and looks stunning at night, thanks to an array of ambient lighting.

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

Screen Time

While Lexus takes a more traditional approach to interior design, Mercedes fills the CLA's cabin with all sorts of screen space and high-end graphics that are simply hard to beat, though there are some drivers out there that want a bit less tech in their interiors, not more. For them, Driving notes that the IS features "nicely detailed, easy to read" gauges, and says that "if you want to take a break from screen time while driving, the Lexus is the better pick."

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

Perfect Positioning

Another thing to consider is just how a driver feels when positioned behind the wheel. And in that regard, Driving gives the IS the nod once again, noting that it provides "a more snug, sporty, and cockpit-like feel" for the driver, thanks to its low seating position and easy-to-reach controls. The overall design is more understated than the flashy CLA interior, and that's precisely the intention.

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

Minor Issues

All the flash and tech in the CLA's cabin does come with a few problems, of course. Our reviewer notes that the car presented a number of false alerts while driving through construction zones, and the gear shift lever is placed where the windshield wiper arm is located in most other cars, and to make matters worse, is shaped exactly like one.

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

Stark Contrast

Meanwhile, Driving found the IS to be solidly built, with controls that present a heavy, high-quality feel. The car is simply easier to use and thoughtfully designed, a stark contrast to the high-end tech and complicated yet admittedly attractive CLA. So the question remains - which one is better?

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

Personal Preference

Answering that question is tough because it really depends on what a consumer is looking for. Do they want a flashy car with the latest tech or a sports luxury coupe that's more about the actual driving experience? Lexus poured all of its attention into how the IS feels and drives, so if that's what you're looking for, it is the obvious choice here. But if you just want the coolest-looking interior, the CLA has a clear edge.

>>Join the conversation about this IS 300 AWD vs the CLA Merc right here in Club Lexus.

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