Two Redesigned Luxury EVs Face Off in Edmunds’ Real-World Test

The 2026 Lexus ES and 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA mark a pivotal moment in the luxury electric vehicle landscape. Both sedans have been fully redesigned for their new model years and are now available with all-electric powertrains alongside traditional combustion engines. In a head-to-head comparison, Edmunds’ automotive experts put the electric versions through rigorous real-world testing to determine which entry-level luxury EV delivers the better ownership experience.

The testing revealed a clear divide: while the Lexus ES excels in interior spaciousness, ride comfort, and value-oriented features, the Mercedes CLA dominates in the critical EV metrics of range, charging speed, and driving engagement. The ES, a midsize sedan, offers vast rear legroom—even surpassing larger models like the BMW i5 and Lucid Air—along with a plush ride. The CLA, though more compact, posted a staggering 434 miles of range in Edmunds’ test cycle and added 100 miles of charge in just seven minutes, compared to the ES’s 13 minutes.

Pricing is nearly identical: the electric Lexus ES 350e starts at $48,895 and the Mercedes CLA 250+ at $49,400, including destination fees. Despite the closeness in cost, the cars present fundamentally different value propositions. Edmunds awarded the CLA an “Excellent” overall score versus the ES’s “Very Good,” citing the Mercedes’ overwhelming advantages in EV-specific performance as the deciding factor.

Why Range and Charging Sealed the Verdict for the Mercedes CLA

The Range and Charging Advantage

The Mercedes CLA’s range figures are the standout data point. The base CLA 250+ returned 434 miles on a single charge in Edmunds’ real-world loop, far exceeding its EPA estimate of 374 miles and dwarfing the Lexus ES 350e’s 307-mile EPA rating (which it essentially matched in testing). Even the all-wheel-drive CLA 350 managed 385 miles. Charging speed reinforces the gap: the CLA can accept up to 300 kW DC fast charging, enabling that 7-minute 100-mile boost, while the Lexus tops out at 150 kW. For drivers regularly traveling long distances or without reliable overnight charging, the CLA’s near-elimination of range anxiety is a decisive selling point.

Performance vs. Comfort

Lexus clearly prioritized serenity. The ES glides over broken pavement with a composure that its smaller rival cannot match, and its interior is a quiet, spacious haven. The CLA trades that isolation for athleticism: more engaging steering, a tauter suspension, and significantly quicker acceleration. The CLA 350 reached 60 mph in 4.5 seconds in Edmunds’ testing, whereas the ES 350e required a leisurely 7.6 seconds. The choice here is one of philosophy—relaxation versus driving involvement—but the CLA’s dynamic edge appears to be what lifted its overall score.

Interior Space and Value Proposition

The Lexus counters with sheer size and standard amenities. Its rear legroom is limousine-like, and it includes ventilated seats and a wireless charger at a slightly lower base price. The cabin design is conservative but user-friendly, anchored by the latest Lexus infotainment system. The Mercedes, meanwhile, wraps its occupants in a futuristic full-width screen and offers more advanced tech, though some may find it overwhelming. In terms of pure space-per-dollar, the ES holds an advantage, making it the more practical choice for families or those who frequently carry rear passengers. Yet for buyers prioritizing the electric drivetrain’s capabilities, the CLA’s superior engineering delivers greater perceived value.

What This Comparison Means for Luxury EV Shoppers

  • If range and charging time are your top concerns, the Mercedes CLA 250+ is the clear pick. Its real-world 434-mile range and ability to add 100 miles in 7 minutes on a compatible fast charger significantly reduce planning around charge stops.
  • Prioritize interior space and a plush ride. The Lexus ES offers substantially more rear legroom and a smoother suspension; consider it if you regularly carry passengers or value serenity over sportiness.
  • Price difference is negligible, so test drive both. At roughly $49,000 apiece, the decision hinges on personal preference—sporty engagement versus relaxed comfort—rather than a budget gap.
  • Factor in charging infrastructure. The CLA’s 300 kW peak charging capability requires access to high-power DC fast chargers; while not as future-proof, the Lexus’s 150 kW limit may be sufficient if most charging occurs at home.