IS300H or C class

[gangzoom]

So it looks like we're finally ready to sign on the dotted line for a replacement of our trusted Civic.

 

Went to see the Lexus IS300H last weekend and really liked it....so much so we've booked a 24hr test drive this coming Saturday in view of doing the deal on a new one.

 

My wife liked the idea of new car so much (who wouldn't ) we have raised the budget to £35k.....Than last night one of these past me whilst on my way to work, and I have to say it looked fab

 

 

So got home today and had play on the Configurator and for the same price as the IS300H you actually get more kit and a decent petrol engine rather with autobox rather than the hybrid CVT set up.

 

Now I love the technology of the hybrid drive in the Lexus, especially EV mode, but given the battery capacity is only 1.6kwh compared to 65-85kwh in a Tesla, I cannot help but feel the Lexus is more of a conventional petrol car rather a real EV machine.....and I was surprised spec for spec it costs more than the Merc, which in pictures anyways just look more classy.

 

So plan now is to pick up the IS300H on Saturday for the test drive and take it straight to the Merc dealer for comparison

 

So which one would you pick out of the two??

 

(No other suggestions please, yes I know a similar spec Jag XE is same price but she doesn't like the XE, and a petrol 3.0 SC XF is just overkill and as I keep reminding my self, it's a car for my wife not a toy for me )

Edited November 11, 2014 by gangzoom

[Paddy78]

C Class for me. I really like the look of the new Mercs and they are quality inside.

 

I know you said you didn't want other suggestions, but... 3 Series?

[veeg33]

C class gets my vote. But it's good idea that you will take the Lexus to Merc garage to compare side by side. Let them know you are on the test car, who knows you might get a good deal since you are considering them 2.

[Zeezeebaba]

I love the look of the C class and I've had a good poke around one. The only criticism I have and it's a petty one is the infotainment screen looks like an afterthought but ergonomically sound in its location.Yep the merc for me over the lexus.

[LRF4N]

Lexus for me. If it's an f sport

 

I think the merc looks really wierd from some angles

[ZEUS]

Merc for me

[veeg33]

Lexus for me. If it's an f sport

 

I think the merc looks really wierd from some angles

Yep, especially the rear in black or white. I find the silver C class look better IMO

[skahigh]

Def. the merc, as others have said the new Mercedes models look great inside and out, their styling department is really on a roll recently.

[GMballistic]

After looking over some pics & specs of the Lexus I'd definitely rather the Merc.

[Ekona]

I wouldn't even consider the Lexus. CVTs are the spawn of Satan.

[R35LEE]

Out of the two I would go Merc but if the choice was BMW or Merc I would go BMW