2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, with a similar formula but enhanced performance. It featured a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $56,500 plus a $1,075 destination charge, the IS 500 offered a thrilling driving experience with its powerful engine and dynamic handling. Despite its modest mechanical upgrades, it delivered an emotional thrill ride while maintaining the comfort, quality, and dependability expected from a Lexus. The IS 500's design was subtly aggressive, with exclusive 19-inch wheels and minor trim modifications, while the interior provided a comfortable and well-constructed space for four passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe presented a fresh exterior design without the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. Offered in rear-wheel-drive 230i Coupe and all-wheel-drive M240i xDrive Coupe variants, the 2 Series Coupe was longer, wider, and lower than its predecessors. The M240i xDrive Coupe featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents, while the 230i could be optioned with similar features. The interior was driver-focused, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series Coupe's design emphasized agility, with a wider kidney grille and aerodynamic elements. Despite its compact size, the 2 Series offered a high-end vibe with mixed material finishes, though some cost-cutting plastics were evident.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was powered by a robust 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive sedan featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, offering driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. The IS 500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience with its adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper. Despite its weight, the IS 500 handled well, offering a blend of comfort and performance. However, its fuel efficiency was a downside, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe offered impressive performance with its turbocharged engines. The 230i Coupe featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive Coupe boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and quick responses. The M240i xDrive featured performance enhancements like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing balanced handling and stability. However, the driving experience felt somewhat disconnected, lacking the engagement expected from a performance car.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 offered a comfortable interior with effective climate control, essential for hot climates like Phoenix. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, providing excellent support and a driver-focused position. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, though lacking smartphone charging. Storage was limited, with a small trunk measuring 10.8 cubic feet. The control layout was intuitive, with buttons and knobs for easy operation, complemented by a touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe, while compact, provided a relatively spacious front seating area, though rear seats were best suited for children or short trips. The coupe's design, with a slanted roofline, limited rear headroom and trunk access. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with split-folding rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft-touch materials and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and a layout similar to other BMW models.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system, addressing previous ergonomic issues. The system 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 highly effective, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display. The infotainment system, featuring iDrive 7, offered over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Additional features included a WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional head-up display. The Live Cockpit Professional package upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2022 Lexus IS came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, and low-speed automatic braking. The IS earned top safety ratings, with a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety options included adaptive LED headlights, a 360-degree surround view, and BMW Drive Recorder. However, the 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.