2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 BMW 2 Series

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, introduced as a new model the previous year, marked a departure from BMW's traditional rear-wheel-drive setup by offering standard front-wheel drive in the U.S. market. Despite its name, the Gran Coupe was a four-door sedan with a conventional trunk, lacking the utility of its five-door sportback sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe. It was positioned as an affordable entry-level BMW, appealing to those aspiring to own a vehicle with the iconic kidney-shaped grille and blue-and-white roundel. The 2 Series Gran Coupe was available in 228i and M235i models, with xDrive all-wheel-drive optional for the 228i and standard for the M235i. For 2021, BMW added standard equipment, restricted the sport automatic transmission to specific packages, and introduced a new adaptive damping suspension and driving-assistance safety features. The test model, a 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, came equipped with the M Sport Package, Premium Package, and other premium features, bringing the MSRP to $48,595. Despite challenges in achieving ideal proportions due to its front-drive platform, BMW employed visual tricks to enhance its appearance, including large LED headlights and a tapering roofline. Inside, the 2 Series Gran Coupe adhered to modern BMW design with geometric shapes, a touchscreen infotainment system, and digital instrumentation, offering an upscale feel.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design, capturing motion even when stationary. The IS featured a fast roofline, a new spindle grille with diamond mesh, and narrow headlights for an assertive look. The interior was tastefully simple, with a retro hi-fi feel in the center stack and bold, assertive choices throughout. The IS's design emphasized elegance, with a greater distance between the front axle and dashboard. The interior matched the exterior's modern aesthetic, though the analog clock felt outdated. The IS's design was cohesive, with flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps, reflecting Lexus's commitment to quality.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe posed a question about the credibility of a front-drive platform under the "ultimate driving machine" moniker. While some critics were skeptical, the 228i Gran Coupe shared similarities with the revered Volkswagen GTI, featuring a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and optional AWD. The 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a sophisticated driving experience, with a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds, an eight-speed sport automatic transmission, and performance-enhancing technology. The M Sport Package added M Sport steering, enhancing the driving experience. The suspension was firm but provided a glued-to-the-road feel, and the car averaged 27.9 mpg, surpassing the EPA's estimate.

The 2021 Lexus IS, developed at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, introduced the "Lexus Driving Signature" for linear operation. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower, while the IS 300 AWD had a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp. The IS 350 models offered 311 hp. The IS 350 RWD accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The IS's suspension and steering provided a crisp, balanced feel. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 25 mpg combined and the IS 350 RWD rated at 23 mpg combined.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was practical for transporting two people, with sport-bolstered front seats and adequate storage. However, the rear seat was cramped, and entry and exit were challenging. The Gran Coupe's trunk offered 15.2 cubic feet of space, with a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for added utility.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered form and function, with a comfortable, adjustable driver position and supportive seats. The IS offered ample storage, including an open cubby, cupholders, and door pockets. The second row was comfortable for two but cramped for three. The trunk provided 10.8 cubic feet of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare beneath the load floor.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe featured Live Cockpit Plus with a 5.1-inch display, upgradeable to Live Cockpit Pro with a 10.25-inch digital display. The infotainment system included an 8.8-inch touchscreen with iDrive 7.0, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The premium sound system had ten speakers, and Gesture Control was available. A head-up display was also included.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lexus Enform services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, WiFi, and Remote, with various trial periods. The Navigation Package added Dynamic Navigation and Destination Assist for three years. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a recommended option.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a Driving Assistance Package with adaptive cruise control and parking assistance. The test car included Active Driving Assistant features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The IIHS rated the car highly for crash protection but noted issues with headlights and pedestrian tests.

The 2021 Lexus IS had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 with a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The IS also included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and LED lighting. The braking system integrated with vehicle dynamic management.