2021 Subaru Impreza vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Subaru Impreza presented a more conservative design compared to its predecessors, which had taken bold styling risks. Despite this shift, the Impreza maintained a handsome appearance with sleek headlights and taillights that enhanced its width. The front end was nicely tapered, and the body sides featured subtle scalloping for visual interest. The Impreza Sport models stood out with specific styling elements, including 18-inch alloy wheels, while the base models came with 16-inch steel wheels. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, shared with other models like the Legacy and Outback, the Impreza offered a refined driving experience. Inside, the design was typical for compact cars, with a dashboard split by the infotainment touchscreen and various plastic elements. The Sport trim added contrast stitching and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, while the Limited trim boasted leather upholstery and LED headlights.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of the original 2008 Lexus IS F with its powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. This model delivered 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, maintaining the rear-wheel-drive setup with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The IS 500 was a thrilling ride, offering both excitement and comfort. It featured a raised hood to accommodate the V8 engine and exclusive 19-inch wheels for a stealthy look. Inside, the IS 500 shared its interior with the IS 350 F Sport, providing a comfortable space for four passengers with quality materials. The addition of a wide touchscreen display improved usability, although the touchpad on the center console remained. The IS 500 was a blend of performance and luxury, appealing to those seeking a unique driving experience.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza was equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This engine design allowed for a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability. Most models featured a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while a five-speed manual was available on select trims. The Impreza Sport offered model-specific suspension tuning and torque vectoring for improved handling. While it provided a solid and refined ride, the Impreza lacked the engagement of competitors like the Honda Civic or Mazda 3. The Sport trim struck a balance between ride quality and handling, but the steering and engine power limited its appeal as a true driver's car.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance, on the other hand, was a powerhouse with its 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. The IS 500 offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the experience. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, according to Lexus. The adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride and stability. Despite its weight, the IS 500 was agile and thrilling, with an intoxicating engine note. However, it was not particularly fuel-efficient, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza offered reasonable legroom in both sedan and hatchback versions, though headroom was slightly below average. The sedan's trunk space was limited to 12.3 cubic feet, but the hatchback provided 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Impreza included features like a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and roof rails on higher trims. Premium and higher trims came with an All-Weather Package, heated front seats, and a power moonroof option.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 excelled in comfort, with effective climate control and seat ventilation. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, offering excellent support. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, but lacked smartphone charging. Storage was limited due to the touchpad controller, and the trunk space was small at 10.8 cubic feet. The IS had a well-organized control layout with buttons and knobs, making it user-friendly.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen on base and Premium trims, with an 8-inch screen on higher trims. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Limited trim offered optional navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and minimal menu navigation required.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 benefited from a touchscreen infotainment system, improving usability. It included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The dynamic voice command system was impressive, handling queries accurately.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza received a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It featured Subaru's EyeSight safety tech on CVT models, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Lexus IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of safety features. It earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The system included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance, though some features were found to be overly sensitive in certain situations.