2021 Lexus IS vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra retained its bold restyling from 2019, maintaining a geometric-influenced appearance that set the stage for the upcoming 2021 model. Available in five versions—Essential, Preferred, Luxury, Ultimate, and Sport—the Elantra's price ranged from $17,099 to $27,549, excluding a $1,825 destination charge. The Elantra Ultimate test vehicle showcased a striking black paint job that highlighted its angular design elements, contrasting with chrome detailing for a stylish, albeit divisive, look. Inside, the Elantra's interior received an upscale update with silver trim accents, though it still featured some hard plastics, reminding occupants of its mainstream compact car status.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design, capturing motion even when stationary. Its fast roofline and distinctive spindle grille with diamond mesh added to its assertive appearance. The IS's interior matched its exterior with bold, modern aesthetics and a simple yet tasteful dash design. However, the analog clock felt outdated amidst the modernity. The IS's build quality was impeccable, with flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps, as expected from a Lexus.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a base 147-horsepower, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT), replacing the previous six-speed automatic. The Elantra Sport trim featured a 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, with an independent rear suspension for improved ride quality. Despite Hyundai's claims of improved fuel efficiency with the new CVT, real-world testing showed an average of 8.0 L/100 km, falling short of the expected 6.8 L/100 km. The Elantra's torsion beam axle rear suspension detracted from ride and handling, making it less enjoyable to drive compared to the Sport model with its independent suspension.

The 2021 Lexus IS brought the "Lexus Driving Signature" to life, offering a crisp, precise, and balanced driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version had a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, available only with AWD in Canada, delivered 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 11.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 on the highway. The IS's independent suspension and steering provided a dynamic driving experience, with acceleration from 0-60 mph ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered spacious accommodations for four adults, with a fifth person fitting for short trips. The test car featured power driver’s seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding centre console armrest for added comfort. Upper trims included dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, though rear passengers lacked air conditioning vents. The Elantra's trunk provided 407 litres of space, nearly matching some midsize sedans, and included a convenient interior grab handle for easy closure.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centred form and function, with an easily adjustable driver position and comfortable, supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat, standard in IS 350 models, included heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, offering the look and feel of leather without the cost and care. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and a deep trunk providing 305.8 litres of space. The rear seats were comfortable for two but cramped for three, with legroom requiring negotiation with front-seat occupants.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, and a USB port. The base Essential trim featured a 5-inch screen, while the Preferred trim offered a 7-inch display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Ultimate trim added a wireless charging pad, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a premium Infinity sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and volume/tuning knobs, and the Infinity sound system impressed with its depth of sound.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside Bluetooth connectivity. Lexus Enform services offered various connected features, with free trial periods for owners. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker, 1,800-watt premium surround-sound audio system was a standout option, providing superb sound quality. The IS's technology package included a CD player, appealing to audiophiles, though the subscription model for navigation and other features had potential pitfalls.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered advanced driving assistance systems on the Preferred trim, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and more. The Ultimate grade added full LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with LED headlights and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though concerns about rear-door intrusion were noted.

The 2021 Lexus IS received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. The IS came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, featuring a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a backup camera with dynamic gridlines.