2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 BMW 3 Series

The 2021 BMW 3 Series returned to its traditional styling approach, reminiscent of the classic E30 3 Series, aiming to resemble a smaller version of the 5 Series and 7 Series sedans. However, the G20 3 Series appeared somewhat stuffy, with a large, oddly-shaped grille that seemed more fitting for the larger 5 Series. The design lacked distinctive features beyond the grille and headlights, which referenced older models' "halo" lights. While the M Sport trim package added flair with M 19-inch wheels and blue-painted brake calipers, the standard Sport Line trim offered 18-inch wheels. The interior design was pleasant but marred by unimpressive materials, with plastic trim and faux Ash wood. Leather upholstery was optional, with synthetic Sensatec as standard, and the optional M heated steering wheel seemed out of place in the otherwise conservative interior.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant stance. Its design captured motion, appearing as if it was moving even when stationary. The IS achieved elegance with a well-measured distance between the front axle and dashboard. The fast roofline balanced between a coupe-like dome and a fastback, while the window base's kick-up added a sporty touch. The Lexus signature "spindle" grille featured an attractive diamond mesh, and narrow headlights gave the IS an assertive look. The paint, chrome, and panel gaps were flawless, as expected from Lexus. Inside, the dash was tastefully simple, with a retro hi-fi feel in the center stack. The interior matched the exterior with bold, assertive choices and a modern aesthetic, though the analog clock felt outdated.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base 330i, which featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 330e plug-in hybrid combined a less powerful version of that engine with electric assist, delivering 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, with an XtraBoost overboost function and limited all-electric range. The M340i boasted a turbo inline-six engine, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft. All powertrains were available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD), paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M340i accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, while the base 330i took 5.6 seconds. Despite the 330e's focus on efficiency, it matched the 330i's zero to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds for the AWD version. However, the transition from electric to gasoline power was clunky, and the driving experience lacked engagement, despite the 3 Series' technical prowess.

The 2021 Lexus IS emphasized its sporty credentials, developed at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The IS 300 AWD had a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft, while the IS 350 models, both AWD and RWD, used the same V6, tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft. RWD models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models had a six-speed automatic. The IS reached 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 IS 350 RWD, with a 54/46 front/rear balance and weighing 3,748 pounds, felt crisp and balanced, thanks to its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series excelled in interior space for a small luxury sedan, offering the best rear headroom in the segment and above-average front headroom. However, legroom was average, potentially causing discomfort for rear-seat passengers with tall front-seat occupants. The 3 Series lacked the shoulder room of the Acura TLX, affecting its spacious feel. Gasoline models provided 17 cubic feet of cargo space, but the 330e plug-in hybrid's battery reduced it to 13.2 cubic feet. The trunk's long-and-narrow shape required an awkward reach, though a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat was standard. The cockpit was well-designed, with a touchscreen positioned for easy access and good outward visibility.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered form and function, with an easily adjustable driver position and comfortable, supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat, standard in IS 350 models, included heating and ventilation. The IS featured perforated NuLuxe fabric, a synthetic upholstery that mimicked leather without the cost and care. Storage space was ample, with an open cubby, twin cupholders, large door pockets, a glovebox, and an under-armrest compartment. The second row was comfortable for two but cramped for three, with legroom negotiated with front-seat occupants. Trunk space was adequate at 10.8 cubic feet, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare beneath the load floor.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series came with the standard iDrive infotainment system, featuring an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Gasoline models supported both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 330e only offered CarPlay. The optional Live Cockpit Professional system added a digital instrument cluster, navigation, and a head-up display. The infotainment system, with high-quality graphics and responsiveness, felt premium. BMW provided multiple control options, including the iDrive controller, steering wheel controls, a voice assistant, and gesture controls. Some features felt gimmicky, but the system offered flexibility in control methods.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The touchpad remained but was no longer the default option. Lexus Enform services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, WiFi, and Remote, with trial periods for owners. The Navigation Package offered Dynamic Navigation and Destination Assist for three years. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker, 1,800-watt premium surround-sound audio system was a recommended option, providing superb audio quality and including a CD player.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series received a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS, with top "Good" scores in crash tests, though headlight scores were mixed. The NHTSA hadn't published ratings for the 3 Series. BMW required additional packages for safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automated lane centering. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional packages added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a parking-assist package.

The 2021 Lexus IS hadn't been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it shared a platform with the previous generation, which had good ratings. The IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a backup camera, LED lights, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect, with a three-year trial.