2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Honda Civic

The 2021 Lexus IS projected an athletic and elegant image, with a design that seemed to capture motion even when stationary. Its fast roofline and compact, sporty cabin were complemented by a new spindle grille and narrow headlights, giving it an assertive look. Inside, the dash was simple yet bold, with a retro hi-fi feel. However, the analog clock felt outdated in an otherwise modern interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Civic adopted a more conservative and mature appearance, resembling the larger Accord sedan. The redesigned interior focused on simplicity, with a minimalistic layout and improved materials, especially in the Touring trim. A metal honeycomb mesh elegantly hid the air vents, and the overall design reflected a maturity that the previous Civic lacked.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of engines, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four in the IS 300 RWD, producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The IS 300 AWD featured a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the IS 350 models had the same V6 tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. RWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD models had a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD rated at 21/31/25 mpg (city/highway/combined).

The 2022 Honda Civic offered two engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque in the LX and Sport trims, and a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque in the EX and Touring trims. Both engines paired with a CVT, featuring Step Shift programming for a more traditional automatic feel. The Civic's handling was enjoyable, with improved structural rigidity and steering feel. However, the Civic Touring's fuel economy fell short of the EPA estimate, returning 30.4 mpg on a 95-mile loop.

The 2021 Lexus IS provided a driver-centered experience with a comfortable, supportive seat and ample storage space. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat included heating and ventilation. The rear seat was comfortable for two but cramped for three, with legroom dependent on front-seat occupants. Trunk space was 10.8 cubic feet, with a temporary spare beneath the load floor.

The 2022 Honda Civic featured redesigned front seats with better support, especially in the leather-lined Touring trim. The power driver's seat offered excellent adjustability, but the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster. The back seat had more legroom than most in the segment, though the backrest angle might feel too reclined for some. The Civic's trunk volume was 14.8 cubic feet (14.4 in Touring trim), with a split-folding backseat for added utility.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside a touchpad. Lexus Enform services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, WiFi, and Remote, with various trial periods. The optional Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was highly recommended for audiophiles.

The 2022 Honda Civic featured digital instrumentation, with a 10-inch display in the Touring trim. The Vehicle Activity display showed the status of the car's lights and signals. The standard infotainment system had a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Touring trim offered a 9-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The voice recognition technology was notably improved.

The 2021 Lexus IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and more. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a backup camera. The IS had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Honda Civic included the upgraded Honda Sensing suite, with Traffic Jam Assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Lane Keeping Assist. The Civic EX and Touring trims added a proper blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert. The Civic's new architecture provided better collision protection, and it featured new front airbags and rear side-impact airbags. A rear-seat reminder system was standard.