Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs Lexus RC
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 30 mpg combined versus 26 mpg for the Lexus RC, a 4 mpg advantage and costs about $350 less per year to fuel.
Across 5 measured categories, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class leads in 5. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2027
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Subcompact Cars · 123 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Lexus RC |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 30 mpg ✓ | 26 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 28 mpg ✓ | 22 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 36 mpg ✓ | 32 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,550 ✓ | $2,900 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 215 g/mi ✓ | 345 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI | SIDI & PFI |
| Transmissions | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd | Automatic (S6), Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium, Premium and Electricity | Premium |
| EPA class | Subcompact Cars | Subcompact Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2027 | 2015–2025 |
| Configurations on record | 123 | 50 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
C-Class vs RC: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the Lexus RC?
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 30 mpg combined versus 26 mpg for the Lexus RC, a 4 mpg advantage and costs about $350 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class runs about $2,550 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,900 for the Lexus RC — a difference of roughly $350 per year.
What engines do the C-Class and RC offer?
Mercedes-Benz C-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI. Lexus RC: SIDI & PFI.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Lexus RC as Subcompact Cars, so they compete directly.
More C-Class comparisons
Comparison id: mercedes-benz-c-class-vs-lexus-rc