The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C 300 is essentially the gold standard when it comes to luxury sedans. Everyone knows the brand; however, they may not know that there are alternatives to buy that are just as luxurious. Here are four other options that you can buy for less than $45,000.

• 2022 Audi A4 — $39,900
• 2022 BMW 3 Series — $41,450
• 2022 Cadillac CT4 — $33,395
• 2022 Lexus IS — $40,585

The 2022 Audi A4 provides a sporty driving experience

If you prefer an engaging driving experience, the 2022 Audi A4 is a great contender. The A4 offers similar power to the Mercedes-Benz C 300 with its 261-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. But its steering is much sharper, and its suspension is a little more taught.

Add to that a number of tech-savvy features like a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple Carplay, and a roster of driver-assist features. If you’re looking for something sporty but comfortable, the A4 could be a unique alternative to the C-Class.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class’ main rival

The 2022 BMW 3 Series is the salt to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class’ pepper. They spice up your daily drive in the same manner but in different ways. The 3 Series offers an even more engaging driving experience over the Audi, but it also brings a lot of style to the table.

The base 330i comes standard with a 255-hp, turbocharged engine, sport front seats, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. On the outside, the 3 Series is quite the looker as well, with its signature kidney grilles. If Mercedes isn’t your style, maybe a BMW is.

The 2022 Cadillac CT4 offers a generous amount of room and features for the money

If you don’t want to spend anywhere near $40,000, then the 2022 Cadillac CT4 is a great choice. In its base Luxury trim, the Cadillac CT4 has an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto, simulated leather, and dual-zone climate control. The CT4 offers similar power to the C 300 with its 237-hp, turbocharged inline-four engine, but it also has a lot of interior room and comfort for up to five adults. If you’re looking for something different than German luxury, then a Cadillac may be more your speed.

The 2022 Lexus IS 300 offers Japanese comfort

We’re not saying that the Mercedes C-Class isn’t comfortable; it is. However, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 offers up a different kind of softness. The base model comes with supple leather seats with power adjustability, dual-zone auto climate control, and Apple Carplay integration, which make its interior a great place to spend time. But when it’s time to hit some winding canyon roads, the IS 300 delivers with its 241-hp engine and athletic suspension. It’s safe to say that the Lexus IS 300 offers the best of both worlds, but in a different way than the Mercedes C 300.

Great alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Although the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been heralded as the gold standard for small luxury sedans, there are some different options in the market. Cars like the Lexus IS, and Cadillac CT4 give buyers a unique take on opulence without breaking the bank. While cars like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 offer up an unorthodox take on German luxury. Of course, no matter which of these sedans you choose, you really can’t go wrong.