2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its 12th-generation form, was considered one of the most attractive iterations of the model. The SE and XSE trims enhanced its appeal with sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, a body kit, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The Celestite Gray metallic paint added a unique blue undertone, making the Corolla genuinely appealing. However, the design had its quirks, such as the hood shut line that visually truncated the front end and the over-styled rear bumper. The Apex Edition further amplified these design peculiarities. For those seeking a more understated look, the Corolla L, LE, or XLE offered a more anonymous presence on the road. The Corolla Hybrid, available in LE trim, provided an affordable path to achieving over 50 mpg. The Corolla SE and XSE, priced at $22,375 and $25,825 respectively, were the sportier versions with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned features. The XSE trim, in particular, boasted a well-crafted interior with soft leatherette and a minimalist design, though it lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. It featured a fast roofline and a distinctive kick-up of the window base, giving it a compact and sporty appearance. The signature spindle grille with diamond mesh and narrow headlights added to its assertive look. The flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps were expected of a Lexus. Inside, the dash was tastefully simple, with a retro hi-fi feel to the center stack. The interior matched the exterior's boldness with authentic lines and modern aesthetics. However, the analog clock felt outdated in the context of the car's modernity. The IS's design was a testament to Lexus's commitment to combining elegance with a sporty edge.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE were equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This engine was paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode. The CVT, with its mechanical first gear, provided a smooth start and minimized the typical droning associated with CVTs. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. The SE and XSE trims featured 18-inch aluminum wheels and 225/40 all-season tires, enhancing their sporty appeal. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and was engaging enough for spirited driving. The EPA estimated the Corolla XSE's fuel economy at 34 mpg combined, though real-world driving yielded 31.1 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of powertrains. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The IS 300 AWD had a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, both AWD and RWD, used the same V6 but with 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. RWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models had a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The IS's driving dynamics were refined, with a 54/46 front/rear balance and a weight of 3,748 pounds. The suspension and steering provided a crisp and balanced driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 25 mpg combined and the IS 350 RWD rated at 23 mpg combined.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered several interior upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats with striped fabric inserts, front-seat heating, and an eight-way power driver's seat. This provided added comfort and a commanding driving position. The rear seats offered good support but had limited headroom and legroom. The Corolla's trunk provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was average for its class. The lack of a handle on the inside of the trunk lid was a minor inconvenience.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered design with a comfortable and supportive seat, especially in the F Sport trim. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and cupholders. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers but cramped for three. The trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare tire stored beneath the load floor.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It also included a free year of Safety Connect services and a Wi-Fi hotspot trial. The SE and XSE trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with the XSE offering additional connectivity features. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. The JBL premium sound system, while offering depth, lacked clarity.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It included various connected services with free trial periods, such as Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect. The Navigation Package offered Dynamic Navigation and Destination Assist for three years. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a standout feature, providing exceptional sound quality. The subscription model for technology had potential pitfalls, with some features requiring future payments.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. The addition of rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert enhanced safety. The Corolla previously earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the 2021 model required re-testing due to new airbags.

The 2021 Lexus IS had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. The IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and more. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and LED lighting. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and roadside support.