Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs Lexus IS

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, a continuation of the bold design introduced in the 2020 model year, stood out in the sedan market with its aggressive styling. Despite its catfish-like appearance, which might not appeal to everyone, the Sonata Hybrid was designed to catch the eye with features like a matte gray paint scheme, integrated deck-lid spoiler, and aerodynamic strakes in the taillights. Inside, the cabin offered a more conventional and refined atmosphere, with soft-touch surfaces and a modern haptic bezel surrounding the vivid touchscreen infotainment system. The seats were comfortable and supportive, making long trips enjoyable for both front and rear passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of the original IS F with its powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. The exterior design was subtle, with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch wheels, maintaining a stealthy appearance. Inside, the IS 500 shared its interior with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a snug yet comfortable space for four people. The cabin was equipped with quality materials and a wide touchscreen display for the infotainment system, although the touchpad on the center console was deemed unnecessary. Despite its compact size, the IS 500 provided a well-organized control layout, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 192 horsepower to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim included a solar panel roof, adding about two miles per day to the driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration, with a Drive Mode toggle allowing drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes. The transition between battery-only and engine power was seamless, and the auto stop-start system was minimally intrusive. The Sonata Hybrid impressed with its refined driving dynamics, precise steering, and solid braking performance.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance, with its 5.0-liter V8 engine, produced 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The rear-wheel-drive setup, coupled with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, provided exhilarating performance. The IS 500 featured adaptive variable suspension and a Yamaha rear performance damper, ensuring a comfortable ride and stability at high speeds. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. Despite its weight, the IS 500 handled well on winding roads, offering a thrilling driving experience with its intoxicating engine note. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 17.7 mpg during evaluation.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the largest among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin provided ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably. However, the sloping roofline resulted in a low rear door opening, requiring occupants to lower their heads when entering. Front passengers benefited from cargo pockets and a center console for storage, while the wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the bottom of the center stack.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance prioritized comfort with its effective climate control system, seat ventilation, and heaters. The front seats were snug yet supportive, offering excellent thigh support and a driver-focused position. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, with rear air conditioning vents but lacking smartphone charging. Storage was limited due to the touchpad controller in the center console, and the trunk space was small at 10.8 cubic feet. The IS 500 featured a well-organized control layout, with buttons and knobs clearly labeled for ease of use.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Limited trim featured a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and real-time traffic updates. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied two-thirds of the larger screen. The touchscreen layout was intuitive, with crisp graphics, and the stereo included a traditional volume knob. The SEL and Limited trims offered a wireless charging pad, and the Limited included a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance benefited from a touchscreen infotainment display, improving ergonomics. The system was intuitive, with separate climate and stereo controls reducing interaction with the screen. The dynamic voice command system was outstanding, handling queries accurately. Standard features 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, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver-attention monitor were also standard. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view parking monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive package of safety features. The lane-departure warning system and adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance were effective, though the Curve Speed Reduction function was overly aggressive. The low-speed automatic braking technology was aggravating in heavy traffic. The IS earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received a four-star frontal-impact collision rating.