2011 Lexus RX vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Lexus RX would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2011 Lexus RX. (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus RX weights approximately 160 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Lexus RX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX | CLS |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | CVT | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1885 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1684 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2741 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
