Mercedes-Benz recently launched the 2026 S-Class facelift at a starting price of Rs 2.20 crore (ex-showroom). This puts it close to the Lexus LM MPV, even though they are not traditional rivals. While these models have completely different body types, they target the same set of buyers who want an optimal chauffeur-driven experience. So, which model makes more sense for a potential customer? Let us find out.
Explore full specs, features and a price breakdown in our S-Class vs LM comparison.
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Prices
Both have the same starting price, but the S-Class is more affordable at the top end
Priced from Rs 2.20 crore, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is offered only in the S 450e guise and is available in two trims: Launch Edition and Manufactur Edition. The Lexus LM also costs Rs 2.20 crore for the 7-Seater VIP version, but its higher-spec 4-Seater Ultra Luxury variant costs considerably more.
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Dimensions
The S-Class is noticeably larger than the LM, save for the height
The S-Class is longer and wider than the LM and also has a larger wheelbase, but the Japanese MPV, owing to its body style, is much taller. It also offers a choice between 7- and 4-seat configurations. While the 7-seat LM’s boot space is 235 litres less than the S-Class, the 2-row 4-seater version reverses it by offering 402 litres more. However, with the third row folded, the 7-seater’s boot space can be expanded to a cavernous 1,191 litres.
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Powertrain specifications
The S-Class gets a larger engine, and its PHEV setup is more powerful
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class combines a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with a plug-in hybrid system that has a significant advantage of 185hp and 441Nm over the Lexus LM’s 2.5-litre strong-hybrid powertrain. This is reflected in the claimed performance figures, with the S-Class completing the 0-100kph sprint three seconds quicker than the LM. The two also differ in their drivetrain layouts: the LM’s AWD system uses a rear electric motor to power the back wheels when needed, while the S-Class sends all of its power to the rear wheels, making it a rear-wheel-drive model.
On paper, the S-Class is also significantly more fuel-efficient. However, this is largely because its plug-in hybrid system can run on electric power alone for up to 115km, allowing it to use little to no fuel during parts of the official test cycle. In contrast, the Lexus LM’s strong-hybrid system cannot be plugged in and relies more heavily on its petrol engine, making its fuel-efficiency figure less directly comparable to that of the Mercedes. Moreover, these figures are derived from different testing methodologies (WLTP versus ARAI).
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Interior and features
The S-Class offers a front passenger display, more speakers and a rear windshield sunshade
While the sizes of the driver’s display and infotainment screen are similar in both luxury cars, the S-Class gets a dedicated screen for the co-driver. It is also equipped with more speakers, wireless phone chargers for the rear passengers and a powered sunshade for the rear windshield, whereas the LM lacks these. The Lexus, on the other hand, offers a TV-like 48-inch rear screen with the 4-seater version, while its 7-seater variant comes with two rear screens that are the same size as those on the S-Class.
While both offer a feature-rich chauffeur-driven experience – packed with powered window sunshades, tailgate and doors, 4-zone climate control, heated, ventilated and massaging seats, and more – the LM ups the comfort quotient with ottoman seats in the second row.
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Safety tech
Both get similar safety features, but the S-Class offers more airbags
Except for the 15 airbags on the S-Class – including seatbelt airbags – and an auto-park assist function, both vehicles offer a similar safety kit. Common features include a 360-degree camera, Level 2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror (IRVM), a driver-monitoring camera and a tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
2026 Mercedes S-Class vs Lexus LM: Which one to consider?
The LM’s 4-seat and 7-seat layout options give it an edge
Both the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Lexus LM are brimming with features, especially for rear-seat passengers, something that is expected at their price point. However, what works in the S-Class’s favour is its powertrain, which not only offers more performance but also a much higher claimed fuel economy. That said, the Lexus LM’s 4-seater version comes with ottoman rear seats, which should translate to added comfort. Plus, the 7-seat version provides added flexibility for buyers looking for a luxury car to move more people.
Prices are ex-showroom, India.
Uday Singh
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Rivan RS 
