2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 Nissan Maxima

The 2021 Lexus IS was a testament to the art of automotive design, with its athletic proportions and dynamic stance. It exuded a sense of motion even when stationary, thanks to its elegant design elements like the fast roofline and the distinctive kick-up of the window base. The signature spindle grille and narrow headlights added to its assertive appearance, while the flawless paint and chrome work were typical of Lexus's attention to detail. Inside, the IS offered a modern aesthetic with a simple yet bold dashboard design. The interior choices were assertive, with high-quality build and authentic lines, although the analog clock felt outdated amidst the modernity.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Maxima made a bold statement with its Art Deco-inspired design, featuring a steeply-angled front end and a massive grille. The 40th Anniversary Edition added a two-tone exterior and unique interior touches like red leather upholstery and white gauge faces, giving it a distinct 1980s vibe. While the Maxima's design was daring, it was toned down in subsequent models. The interior was dressed up with anniversary-specific elements, but the overall design leaned towards a more traditional approach compared to the Lexus IS.

The 2021 Lexus IS was engineered for the luxury sports sedan category, showcasing the "Lexus Driving Signature" for a seamless driving experience. It offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 241 horsepower for the IS 300 RWD, and a 3.5-liter V6 producing up to 311 horsepower for the IS 350 models. The IS 350 RWD could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph. The IS's handling was precise and balanced, thanks to its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 25 mpg combined.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While it wasn't a "four-door sports car," the Maxima offered a quick and enjoyable driving experience, with the V6 engine providing a satisfying sound. The CVT was responsive, and the Maxima handled corners well, though it suffered from torque steer and lacked steering precision. Despite these limitations, the Maxima was comfortable for highway cruising, with a quiet cabin and a ride that absorbed most road imperfections.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered design, with a comfortable and adjustable driver position. The F Sport trim offered bolstered seats with heating and ventilation, and the interior featured synthetic NuLuxe upholstery. Storage options were ample, with various compartments and a trunk offering 10.8 cubic feet of space. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima prioritized front-seat space, offering generous headroom and legroom for the driver and front passenger. However, rear-seat passengers experienced cramped conditions, with limited headroom and legroom. The Maxima's "Zero Gravity" front seats provided excellent support, though more thigh bolstering was desired. Cargo space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, and the sedan's conventional trunk was less versatile than hatchback competitors.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. It offered various connected services, including Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect, with trial subscriptions. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided exceptional sound quality. However, the subscription model for navigation services was a potential drawback.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a WiFi hotspot and USB ports. While it covered basic features, the system's graphics and notification sounds felt outdated. The Maxima offered analog controls for convenience, but the overall infotainment experience was less user-friendly compared to the Lexus IS.

The 2021 Lexus IS came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, featuring a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. While it hadn't been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, it was expected to perform well based on its platform.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima received top safety ratings, earning an IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with optional adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. However, it lacked the ProPilot Assist system available in other Nissan models.