2021 Lexus ES vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was arguably one of the most attractive versions in recent history. The 12th-generation model, especially in the SE or XSE trim, added an appealing sport-design with features like sport bumpers, a mesh grille insert, a matching diffuser panel, a subtle body kit, twin-outlet exhaust, and striking 18-inch aluminum wheels. When dipped in Celestite Gray metallic paint, the Corolla had an enticing blue undertone, making it genuinely appealing.

However, despite its appeal, the design did have its quirks. The hood shut line running into the headlight assembly and the bumper visually truncated the front end, emphasizing an overbite and gaping maw. The rear quarter view was considered the best angle for the Corolla, though even standard models showcased a wildly over-styled rear bumper. The Apex Edition further highlighted the peculiarities, making the design more polarizing.

For those preferring to blend in, the Corolla L, LE, or XLE provided less attention-grabbing options. Toyota also offered a Corolla Hybrid with a powertrain similar to the Prius. It came exclusively in LE trim and provided a cost-effective path to achieving over 50 mpg. Prices for these versions ranged between $19,925 and $24,325, excluding the destination charge.

The focus of our review encompassed the Corolla SE ($22,375) and XSE ($25,825), which were the sporty variants. These models featured a more powerful engine, varied transmissions, a Sport driving mode, and larger wheels and tires. For heightened performance, the Apex Edition, starting at $25,070, was available. Our XSE test vehicle included optional features like the Connectivity Package and floor mats, bringing the total price to $28,704.

Inside, Toyota excelled with the Corolla XSE’s interior. The use of soft leatherette for the dashboard, densely padded upper door panel trim, and robust switchgear imparted a sense of quality. The design was guided by simplicity, resulting in a clean and minimalist look without compromising user experience. However, practical storage for everyday items was somewhat lacking due to the center console's design emphasizing form over function.

Switching gears to the 2021 Lexus ES, this model year saw an expansion with the introduction of the new ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel-drive (AWD). The ES 250 models were priced equivalently to the ES 350, which had a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel-drive (FWD). The ES 250 and ES 350 were available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims.

Additionally, Lexus offered the ES 300h, a gas-electric hybrid variant that commanded a premium of $1,910, providing significant fuel economy gains. This version was available in Standard, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims.

Lexus enhanced safety features by making blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard across all trims, except for the base unit. A limited-production Black Line Special Edition of the ES 350 debuted, bringing unique styling elements including black wheels, black side mirrors, and an exclusive set of Zero Halliburton luggage.

Pricing for the Lexus ES ranged from $40,000 to $50,910, plus a $1,025 destination charge. Our ES 350 F Sport Black Line Special Edition test car included a series of high-end features like triple-beam LED headlights, illuminated door sill plates, adaptive variable suspension, and a Navigation Package. It also had wireless smartphone charging, a head-up display, a power rear window shade, a hands-free power trunk opener, and protective rear bumper film, bringing its MSRP to $54,070, including the destination charge.

In terms of appearance, the F Sport trim added sportier touches like 19-inch wheels, unique front and rear styling, a rear spoiler, aluminum interior trim, and stylish F Sport instrumentation. The Black Line Special Edition was specifically available in black, white, or Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 paint. The ES featured a dramatic grille which required acclimation but eventually added to the overall attractive sedan’s profile. Inside, the black and white interior provided striking contrasts, aligning well with the ES's sophisticated cabin design. Despite sharing a platform with the Toyota Avalon, the ES, with its high-quality materials and intricate design, firmly established itself as a true Lexus.

When it came to performance, the 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE were equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 169 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This engine was mated to a Dynamic Shift continuously variable transmission (CVT), featuring paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode. Despite the drivetrain promising more than it often delivered, the six-speed manual gearbox with downshift rev-matching available with SE trim, costing an additional $200, added a layer of engagement.

Our XSE test car's CVT utilized a mechanical first gear to initiate movement, minimizing drivetrain slip, and claimed characteristics commonly associated with CVTs. Even though the hand-off to the CVT occasionally displayed characteristic drone, its ten programmed ratios effectively softened the typical CVT drawbacks.

The Corolla’s foundation, the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), underscored the brand’s commitment to a low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. This architecture was prevalent across various Toyota models, ensuring a refined driving experience. Additional mechanical components included electric steering, vented front, and solid disc rear brakes, and a MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear suspension.

Expectations for the Corolla XSE were tempered, given recent drives in more performance-oriented cars like the Hyundai Elantra N, Mazda3 2.5 Turbo, and the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Surprisingly, the Corolla XSE was enjoyable to drive, thanks partly to its modest power, precluding any serious driver misadventures, and its predictable handling.

While not an outright sport sedan, the 2.0-liter engine made the Corolla quick, engaging, and capable enough to dispel any notions of it being a mere commuter car. Many buyers would select the SE or XSE for its sportier styling but would soon find appreciation for its dynamic traits.

Regarding fuel efficiency, the EPA rated the Corolla XSE at 34 mpg in combined driving. Our testing on a mountainous route returned an average of 31.1 mpg, toggling between Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, and using paddle shifters frequently.

Conversely, the 2021 Lexus ES 350 housed a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse, controlled by an eight-speed automatic transmission, directed its energy to the front wheels, offering drivers Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes. The F Sport trim introduced additional Sport+ and Custom driving modes with adaptive damping suspension.

Lexus stated the ES 350 could accelerate to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds with a fuel economy rating by the EPA of 25 mpg in combined driving. During our test loop, we averaged 22.9 mpg.

From the driver’s seat, the ES 350 F Sport felt more responsive than its official acceleration figures suggested, partly due to the ease at which its front tires broke loose, extending the acceleration time. A torque-vectoring AWD system similar to Acura TLX’s SH-AWD would've significantly enhanced the driving experience.

During our tests in various modes, the ES 350 F Sport displayed distinguishable dynamic capabilities, particularly in the Sport modes. The vehicle exhibited a firm ride and flat cornering stance, conveying athleticism uncommon for a car with the ES’s reputation as a comfy cruiser. Yet, it remained a sporty sedan, not a sports sedan, underscoring the balance Lexus aimed for in this model.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla in XSE trim presented significant interior upgrades compared to the SE. These included SofTex leatherette seats with trendy striped fabric inserts, front-seat heating, and importantly, an eight-way power driver’s seat adjustment. This feature contributed to comfort and ensured a commanding driving position with clear forward sightlines, making entry and exit easier. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, but the comprehensive thigh support mitigated this omission.

The rear seat in the Corolla provided decent support and a reasonably high seating position. However, headroom and legroom were limited, and there were no air conditioning vents for rear passengers. On cooler days, occupants who fit into the backseat found it acceptable. The Corolla sedan’s trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was average among compact cars. In contrast, the Corolla hatchback provided 17.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Notably, the sedan lacked an interior handle on the trunk lid for easier closure.

The 2021 Lexus ES provided a bold interior design while maintaining practicality, except for some odd storage configurations. The ES 350 F Sport had sport-bolstered front seats featuring 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather appeared and felt genuine, and the long bottom cushions delivered excellent thigh support, ensuring comfort.

Rear-seat passengers experienced a comfortable journey thanks to ample foot and legroom. The supportive bottom cushion, well-angled backrest, and rear air vents, coupled with an available power rear window sunshade, enhanced the passenger comfort. However, the absence of a panoramic glass roof was a slight drawback.

Clear visibility was a strong suit for the ES, thanks to relatively thin windshield pillars and large side mirrors. Storage was interestingly configured with numerous nooks and crannies rather than spacious trays and bins. The wireless smartphone charger, tucked under the center armrest, added to the innovative storage solutions.

Comparatively, the ES’s trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, slightly more than the Corolla, but still modest for a car in its class. The test car’s hands-free power trunk, which required a kick under the bumper for opening and closing, provided an added convenience in cargo handling.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla introduced standard Android Auto smartphone projection, joining Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio, ensuring comprehensive connectivity. Every Corolla model included a year of Safety Connect services and free Wi-Fi hotspot access for three months or 2GB of data use. The Corolla SE's 8-inch touchscreen provided a larger interface compared to the standard 7-inch display, while the XSE model incorporated Service Connect and Remote Connect features free for a year, offering functionalities like remote engine starting and vehicle tracking.

The SE and XSE models also offered a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system, with exclusive dynamic voice recognition, dynamic navigation, and Destination Assist services for the XSE. The infotainment system featured easily navigable knobs and physical shortcut buttons, simplifying user interaction. The dynamic voice recognition was efficient and responsive, enhancing user convenience. Minor quibbles included the radio knobs’ design, making them hard to grasp, and the JBL sound system, which though deep, lacked clarity.

For the 2021 Lexus ES, the touchpad system posed significant usability challenges. The need to look at the screen while navigating the touchpad made it easy to overshoot intended targets, drawing attention away from the road. Despite this, positive features included separate climate and primary stereo controls on the dashboard, with a combination volume and tuning knob within easy reach.

The ES also featured excellent dynamic voice command technology, reducing the reliance on the touchpad. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen display looked superior to the standard 8-inch display but ideally needed to be a touchscreen for better interaction. The technology package included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM satellite radio, and HD Radio with several connected services.

Free trial periods for connected services ranged from three to ten years, with the Wi-Fi Connect trial limited to three months. Interestingly, the ES still featured a CD player.

With the 12.3-inch display, the ES added dynamic navigation and Destination Assist connected services with free three-year subscriptions, and a 10-year free subscription for dynamic voice command technology. A 10-speaker premium sound system was standard, though an available 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson high-end sound system promised an exceptional audio experience.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla boasted standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), incorporating an impressive array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. The 2021 model year added standard rear side-impact airbags and an enhanced blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning.

In real-world application, these technologies performed remarkably well, albeit with occasional imperfections. The adaptive cruise control could exhibit uneven braking while maintaining distance to the vehicle ahead, and the lane-centering assistance sometimes required driver intervention. However, serious false alerts or flaws were rare during our testing.

The 2020 Corolla earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), applicable only to models with optional curve adaptive headlights. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 model a top 5-star overall rating. Given the addition of new airbags, both organizations needed to re-test the 2021 model before assigning new ratings.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured the comprehensive Lexus Safety System 2.0 (LSS 2.0). This package included forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, a road-sign recognition system, and automatic high-beam headlights. For the 2021 model year, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard across all trims, except the base model.

ADAS settings could be adjusted using controls on the left steering wheel spoke, with additional controls on the steering wheel itself. During testing, the technologies proved effective, although lane-centering occasionally struggled. The LSS 2.0 sometimes failed to recognize vehicles cutting into the gap until they were directly ahead, causing the ES to brake more abruptly than necessary. Turning off the adaptive cruise, lane-centering, and lane-keeping systems made the ES more enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Lexus ES earned the "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, ensuring strong safety credentials.