2020 Honda Civic vs 2021 Lexus IS

The 2020 Honda Civic was a standout in Honda's lineup, offering a compact car experience with a touch of luxury typically associated with higher-end brands. It came in three body styles—sedan, coupe, and hatchback—each showcasing a sharp design that belied its compact size. The sedan featured an elongated, elegant body with a svelte roofline, while the hatchback had a slightly quirky tall rump. The Civic's exterior was visually stimulating, with body panel creases, wide headlights, and sweeping LED taillights accentuating its low and wide stance. The interior was simple yet sophisticated, with soft-touch materials and high-quality switchgear. The 2020 model introduced new styling elements, including matte-black wheels and updated bumpers, enhancing its already appealing design.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. It featured a fast roofline and a distinctive kick-up at the window base, giving it a sporty and compact appearance. The signature spindle grille with diamond mesh and narrow headlights added to its assertive look. Inside, the IS boasted a tastefully simple dash with a retro hi-fi feel, aligning with its modern aesthetic. However, the analog clock felt outdated in this context. The IS's design was characterized by bold choices and flawless execution, reflecting Lexus's commitment to quality and style.

The 2020 Honda Civic offered a range of engines and transmissions, all front-wheel drive. The base models featured a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower, while higher trims came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine producing 174 to 180 horsepower. The Civic Si and Type R models delivered even more power, with 205 and 306 horsepower, respectively. The Civic's engines were praised for their smoothness and responsiveness, and the manual transmission was particularly enjoyable to use. The Si model featured adaptive dampers and a stiffer ride, providing a thrilling driving experience. Despite a slight reduction in fuel economy, the Civic remained efficient, with most models achieving at least 30 mpg city and up to 42 mpg highway.

The 2021 Lexus IS, on the other hand, was designed with a focus on performance, debuting the "Lexus Driving Signature" for a seamless driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower, while the AWD version had a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 horsepower. The IS 350 models offered 311 horsepower from the same V6 engine. The IS's driving dynamics were enhanced by its balanced weight distribution and precise steering. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 25 mpg combined, while the IS 350 RWD managed 23 mpg combined. The IS's performance was characterized by its crisp handling and balanced ride, making it a competent luxury sports sedan.

The 2020 Honda Civic provided a spacious interior with thoughtful design elements. The hatchback featured additional sound insulation, and the EX models offered an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The steering wheel housed controls for the central display and instrument panel, while the center console offered configurable storage options. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space, though the lack of rear air vents was a notable oversight. The Civic's trunk space was generous, with the sedan offering 15 cubic feet and the hatchback providing up to 46 cubic feet with seats folded down.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered design, with a comfortable and adjustable driver position. The F Sport trim included bolstered seats with heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. Storage options were plentiful, with various compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited. The trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space, with a deep configuration for added practicality.

The 2020 Honda Civic featured an outdated infotainment system, though it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-end trims offered Garmin-based navigation with accurate voice recognition. The Civic Si introduced Active Sound Control, which could be turned off, and came with a 450-watt stereo system. Standard features included push-button start, keyless entry, and heated front seats. Honda Sensing provided advanced safety features, and LaneWatch offered a live feed of the blind spot.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lexus Enform services offered various connected features, with free trial periods for owners. The Navigation Package included Dynamic Navigation and Destination Assist for three years. The Mark Levinson audio system was a recommended option, providing exceptional sound quality. The IS's technology suite was comprehensive, though some features required subscriptions after the trial period.

The 2020 Honda Civic was equipped with Honda Sensing, which included forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Civic earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with "Good" ratings in all crash tests. The NHTSA awarded the Civic five stars in most categories, with a four-star rating for the passenger frontal crash in the coupe.

The 2021 Lexus IS had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. The IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and LED lighting. The IS's safety equipment was extensive, providing peace of mind for drivers.