2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced equivalently to the ES 350 with a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive. Available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims, the ES 250 and ES 350 offered a range of options. The ES 300h hybrid variant, with its superior fuel economy, was available in Standard, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims, commanding a premium price. The ES lineup also included standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, except for the base trim. A limited-production Black Line Special Edition of the ES 350 debuted, featuring unique styling elements and a matching luggage set. The ES's design, with its dramatic grille and sleek profile, was complemented by the F Sport trim's sporty enhancements, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a stylish sedan.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance arrived with a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, reminiscent of the original IS F. Priced at $56,500, it offered a thrilling driving experience with its rear-wheel drive and eight-speed automatic transmission. The IS 500's design featured subtle styling tweaks, including a raised hood and quad exhaust outlets, while maintaining a stealthy appearance. Inside, the IS 500 shared its interior with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a comfortable and intimate cabin for four passengers. The addition of a wide touchscreen display improved the infotainment experience, although the touchpad remained a space-consuming feature. The IS 500's blend of performance and comfort made it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a unique alternative to traditional German sports sedans.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Drivers could select from Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, it averaged 22.9 mpg. The ES 350 F Sport offered a dynamic driving experience, with a firm ride and flat cornering stance, though it lacked the outright sportiness of dedicated sports sedans. The ES 350's performance was impressive for a car known for comfort, but it was not intended to compete with the sportier IS models.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance, with its 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivered 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Weighing slightly more than the IS 350 F Sport, the IS 500 featured a rear-wheel drive setup with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. Driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, with a Custom mode for personalized settings. The IS 500 accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. Its adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride and excellent stability. Despite its weight, the IS 500 handled well, delivering an exhilarating driving experience with its intoxicating engine note. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Lexus ES boasted a daring interior layout, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather provided a luxurious feel, and the rear seats offered ample foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. Visibility was excellent, and storage was plentiful, though oddly configured. The trunk offered 13.9 cubic feet of space, with a hands-free power trunk option for added convenience.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 provided excellent comfort, with effective air conditioning and seat ventilation. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, offering good thigh support and a driver-focused position. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, with rear air conditioning vents but no smartphone charging. Storage was limited by the touchpad controller, and the trunk offered just 10.8 cubic feet of space. The IS's control layout was intuitive, with clear markings and a touchscreen infotainment system enhancing usability.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a problematic touchpad interface, requiring attention to navigate the screen. However, separate climate and stereo controls, along with a dynamic voice command system, improved usability. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen display offered a better viewing experience, though it was not a touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with a 10-speaker premium sound system. The Mark Levinson high-end sound system was available for audiophiles.

The 2022 Lexus IS benefited from a touchscreen infotainment display, resolving previous ergonomic issues. The IS 500 Premium's dynamic voice command system was outstanding, handling queries accurately. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation system, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2021 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, offering a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all but the base trim. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive package of safety features. The system included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and low-speed automatic braking. While some features were helpful, others could be irritating in certain situations. The IS earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star frontal-impact collision rating.