2020 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Lexus IS

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out due to its unique curves and silhouette. Despite the hatchback's appeal, many U.S. consumers preferred the sedan for its competitive edge in the market. The Mazda3 sedan, especially with the Premium Package and all-wheel drive, featured 18-inch alloy wheels that complemented its design. The front of the car was marked by a striking blacked-out mesh grille and round running lamps, although these elements lost some appeal when the headlights were on. The side profile was sculpted, avoiding the sharp lines seen in competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. However, the sedan's rear design felt somewhat disproportionate, unlike the more naturally shaped hatchback. Inside, the Mazda3 leaned towards a premium feel with minimalist design, creamy white leather, and a driver-focused cockpit. While the materials were soft and leather-clad, they didn't quite match the luxury standards of higher-end sedans. The car's construction felt less robust, with doors and trunk closures sounding hollow.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. It appeared to be in motion even when stationary, thanks to its well-executed design elements like the fast roofline and the distinctive kick-up of the window base. The signature spindle grille with diamond mesh and narrow headlights added to its assertive look. The exterior was flawless in terms of paint, chrome, and panel gaps, as expected from Lexus. Inside, the dashboard was simple yet stylish, with a retro hi-fi feel. The interior matched the exterior's boldness with authentic lines and modern aesthetics. However, the analog clock felt outdated in the otherwise modern cabin. The IS's design was a testament to Lexus's commitment to combining sportiness with elegance.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3's performance was somewhat compromised by its torsion beam rear suspension, a cost-cutting measure that replaced the previous multi-link setup. While this decision might have disappointed enthusiasts, everyday drivers likely didn't notice much difference. The steering remained precise, and the car handled corners with minimal roll, though it could be jostled by road imperfections. The 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder engine delivered 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous generation. However, it lacked the immediate punch of turbocharged engines. A manual transmission was available only in specific configurations, with most models featuring a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2021 Lexus IS was developed with a focus on delivering a sporty driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD version had a 3.5-liter V6 producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, both RWD and AWD, used the same V6 but with tweaks to produce 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models had a six-speed automatic. The IS offered a top speed of 143 mph, with 0-60 mph times ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD. The car's double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, along with its precise steering, contributed to a balanced and crisp driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the IS 350 AWD was rated at 19/26/22 mpg.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. Despite its size, the interior offered ample room for the driver, with supportive front seats and plenty of adjustment options. The back seat was a bit tight on legroom, but the soft front seatbacks mitigated discomfort. The materials held up well, even after 10,000 miles of use. However, the large transmission hump in the rear middle seat was a drawback. The sedan's trunk provided 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet, both on the smaller side for the segment.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on a driver-centered experience with an easily adjustable driver position and comfortable, supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat was standard in IS 350 models, offering heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin. The second row was comfortable for two passengers but cramped for three, with legroom requiring negotiation with front-seat occupants. The trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare stored beneath the load floor.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display integrated into the dashboard, avoiding the common "tacked-on" look. However, it lacked touch functionality, with navigation and infotainment controlled via a rotary dial. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM satellite radio. The graphics were sharp, and the head-up display reflected off the windshield, enhancing the car's premium feel.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The touchpad remained but was no longer the default option. 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 17-speaker audio system was a recommended option for audiophiles, providing superb sound quality.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top scores in all crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. These features were standard, unlike in many luxury vehicles where they were optional.

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. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of safety features such as a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect with a three-year trial.