2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Audi A4

The 2021 Lexus IS was known for its athletic proportions and great stance, projecting an image of motion even when standing still. Elegance was evident in the long distance between the front axle and dashboard, a design element that many car enthusiasts appreciated. The fast roofline struck a balance between a coupe-like dome and a fastback, contributing to a sporty and compact appearance. The signature spindle grille, filled with diamond mesh, and narrow headlights provided an assertive front fascia. Lexus ensured flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps, upholding the brand's high standards.

Inside, Lexus's interior design combined simplicity and modern aesthetics with a hint of retro, evidenced by the center stack resembling attractive hi-fi components. Authentic lines, bold choices, and impeccable build quality were noticeable. However, the analog clock seemed increasingly outdated, signaling a need for a more modern replacement.

The 2022 Audi A4, on the other hand, maintained a simple, clean, and conservative exterior appearance. Our test car, a top-trim Prestige 45 TFSI, painted in Tango Red, included a Black Optic Plus package, 19-inch wheels, and the S-line Interior package. These elements, together with the flawless five-arm rotor-design wheels, made the A4 strikingly attractive.

Inside, the A4 continued the theme of aesthetic restraint. Despite the black interior, splashes of aluminum trim, gloss black décor, and metallic accents prevented it from feeling too dark. High-quality materials such as the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation panel and ambient interior lighting delivered a premium experience. However, the tablet-style touchscreen seemed like an afterthought rather than a seamless part of the cabin design.

The 2021 Lexus IS brought significant revisions to its performance. Designed and tested at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama near Lexus’s global headquarters, the IS debuted the "Lexus Driving Signature." Lexus provided three powertrain options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine for the IS 300 RWD, generating 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque; a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft for the IS 300 AWD; and a tuned version of the same V6 producing 311 hp and 280 lb-ft for both AWD and RWD IS 350 models. The rear-wheel-drive models paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the all-wheel-drive versions used a six-speed automatic. On open roads, the IS 350 delivered a front/rear balance of 54/46 and a weight of 3,748 pounds, resulting in a crisp, precise, and balanced driving experience.

Fuel efficiency varied by model, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway for the IS 300 RWD, 19/26 for the IS 300 AWD, 20/28 for the IS 350 RWD, and 19/26 for the IS 350 AWD, demonstrating a blend of performance and efficiency.

Evaluating the 2022 Audi A4, the 40 TFSI model featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, churning out 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. It achieved an EPA rating of 29 mpg combined and a 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds. The 45 TFSI variant, with 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, also used the same drivetrain but included a sport suspension. Audi claimed a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds, with an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined.

Our test vehicle excelled in driving dynamics, delivering robust performance and excellent tire grip, courtesy of the 245/35 Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Despite extreme temperatures, the A4’s brakes performed flawlessly, and the overall driving experience was joyful and refined. The A4’s efficiency-focused Quattro Ultra AWD system, transferring power to the rear wheels only when needed, provided a balanced driving experience, though lacking the visceral feel of traditional Quattro systems.

The 2021 Lexus IS provided a driver-centric layout, featuring easily adjustable, comfortable, and supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seats were standard in the IS 350 models, offering heating and ventilation. Lexus used perforated NuLuxe synthetic leather upholstery, known for being eco-friendly, lightweight, and easy to clean. Storage options in the IS were plentiful, including an open cubby at the center stack base, twin cupholders in the center console, large door pockets, and a decent-sized glovebox.

Rear seat space was typical for a compact sedan, comfortable for two adults but cramped for three, and required negotiation with front-seat passengers for legroom. The trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space, structured deeply to enhance capacity. A temporary spare tire was provided beneath the trunk floor.

Conversely, the 2022 Audi A4 had a more challenging entry and exit due to its low ride height and small door openings. However, once inside, it was exceptionally comfortable. The driver’s seat featured leather upholstery, power adjustment, thigh support cushions, and optimal driving position customization. The A4 boasted a three-zone automatic climate control system, separated from the infotainment screen for ease of use.

Space in the A4’s rear seats was limited, accommodating two adults comfortably but restricting movement. Storage options were sparse; the center console bin was occupied by the wireless charging pad and Audi Phone Box signal booster, limiting its usability for other items. However, the A4’s 13-cubic-foot trunk was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and plenty of floor space, making it practical for various storage needs.

The 2021 Lexus IS upgraded its technological offerings with a touchscreen infotainment system, supporting both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Although the touchpad remained, it was no longer the primary interface. Lexus generously included free trial periods for connected services like Lexus Enform Safety Connect, Service Connect, WiFi, and Remote. Additional tech options included the Navigation Package and the Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium audio system, which audiophiles would find exceptionally delightful.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the next-generation MIB3 Audi Multi-Media Interface (MMI). The 10.1-inch touchscreen stood prominently on the dashboard and supported intuitive smartphone functions like swipe, scroll, pinch, and spread. With features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, wireless charging, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, the A4's tech was both comprehensive and user-friendly. Despite the touchscreen’s protruding design, most users found it easy to use while driving. Voice recognition, though slow, added to the tech's utility, and the separation of climate controls from the touchscreen was a smart decision by Audi, maintaining ease of use.

The 2021 Lexus IS came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of safety features such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Additional standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a backup camera, and an integrated vehicle dynamic management system. However, the vehicle had not yet been rated for crashworthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time.

The 2022 Audi A4’s safety features increased with higher trims. The Prestige model included Audi Pre Sense, offering front and rear collision preparation, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Our test vehicle also featured lane-departure warning, lane-keeping and centering assist, adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. High-tech Matrix-design LED headlights ensured optimal visibility at night. Additionally, the A4 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, demonstrating top-tier safety credentials.

The 2021 Lexus IS came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of safety features such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Additional standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a backup camera, and an integrated vehicle dynamic management system. However, the vehicle had not yet been rated for crashworthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time.

The 2022 Audi A4’s safety features increased with higher trims. The Prestige model included Audi Pre Sense, offering front and rear collision preparation, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Our test vehicle also featured lane-departure warning, lane-keeping and centering assist, adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. High-tech Matrix-design LED headlights ensured optimal visibility at night. Additionally, the A4 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, demonstrating top-tier safety credentials.