2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Hyundai Sonata

The 2021 Lexus IS was a testament to the brand's commitment to elegance and athleticism. Its design was a blend of dynamic motion and refined elegance, with a fast roofline and a distinctive kick-up at the window base that added a sporty touch. The signature spindle grille and narrow headlights gave the IS an assertive presence, while the flawless paint and chrome finish underscored its luxury status. Inside, the IS featured a tastefully simple dashboard with a retro hi-fi feel, aligning with its bold exterior. However, the analog clock seemed outdated amidst the modern aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata evolved from its earlier iterations, shedding its mimicry of competitors to establish a unique identity. The seventh-generation Sonata boasted a wide grille, rounded front fascia, and a sloped rear roofline, offering a distinctive look that divided opinions. Inside, the Sonata provided a functional and spacious cabin with clear gauges and average material quality. The N Line variant added sporty elements like a body kit and dual exhaust, transforming the Sonata's appearance from mild to wild. The interior of the N Line featured dark chrome trim and red stitching, enhancing its sporty character.

The 2021 Lexus IS was engineered for the luxury sports sedan category, debuting the "Lexus Driving Signature" for a seamless driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower, while the AWD version had a 3.5-liter V6 producing 260 hp. The IS 350 models, both AWD and RWD, offered 311 hp from the same V6. The IS achieved 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. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD rated at 21/31/25 mpg and the IS 350 AWD at 19/26/22 mpg.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata offered a dual personality in performance. The base engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivered 191 hp, while the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine in the SEL Plus and Limited produced 180 hp. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Sonata N Line, however, featured a 290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, sport suspension, and a wet dual-clutch transmission, appealing to those seeking a more spirited drive. All Sonatas were front-wheel drive, and the ride was smooth and quiet, offering a serene cabin experience.

The 2021 Lexus IS prioritized driver comfort with an adjustable driver position and supportive seats, especially in the F Sport trim. The IS offered ample storage, including a deep 10.8-cubic-foot trunk. The rear seat was comfortable for two but cramped for three, typical for a compact sedan. The IS featured synthetic NuLuxe upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata excelled in interior space, with 104.4 cubic feet of passenger space, classifying it as a "Large Car" by the EPA. Front-seat headroom and legroom were top-notch, while rear-seat space was adequate for two adults. The Sonata's 16-cubic-foot trunk was spacious, accommodating a full set of luggage. The Remote Smart Parking Assist was a standout feature, allowing the car to park itself with the push of a button.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It included Lexus Enform services with trial subscriptions, such as Safety Connect and Service Connect. The optional Mark Levinson audio system was a highlight, offering superb sound quality.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata's technology varied by trim. The base SE had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch display with navigation and a Bose audio system. The SEL trim included last year's Tech package as standard, adding features like Highway Driving Assist and a panoramic sunroof. The Bose audio system was praised for its power and clarity.

The 2021 Lexus IS came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata included a comprehensive safety package, with features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. The NHTSA awarded it five stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS rated the 2021 Sonata, structurally similar to the 2022 model, with top "Good" ratings in crash tests and "Superior" for crash prevention.