2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It lacked the design flourishes of the 3 Series and the imposing size of the 7 Series, opting instead for a more subtle presence. The 2021 model year introduced a minor styling refresh, enhancing its sleekness with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet tastefully sized, twin-kidney grille. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package. Despite being 30 millimetres longer, the 5 Series maintained a commendable drag coefficient of 0.27. Inside, the familiar BMW layout remained largely unchanged, with specific design elements reinforcing the brand's identity. While lower trims featured SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered luxurious leather options. The interior boasted high-end materials, though the sporty steering wheel felt somewhat out of place.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and dynamic stance, capturing motion even when stationary. Its design exuded elegance, with a well-measured distance between the front axle and dashboard. The fast roofline and unique window design added to its sporty appearance. The updated spindle grille and narrow headlights contributed to its assertive look, while flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps underscored Lexus's attention to detail. Inside, the IS featured a tastefully simple dash with a retro hi-fi feel. The interior matched the exterior's boldness with authentic lines and modern aesthetics. However, the analog clock felt outdated amidst the modern design, suggesting a need for a fresh approach.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a diverse range of powertrains. The base 530i sedan featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. The 540i model included a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The M550i xDrive boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp, while the M5 offered 617 hp, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. The 530e plug-in hybrid combined a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 288 hp and a 31 km electric range.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on delivering a sporty driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The AWD version had a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350, available only with AWD in Canada, offered 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The IS achieved a top speed of 230 km/h, with acceleration ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD. The IS's fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD consuming 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.6 on the highway.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered spaciousness reflective of its exterior dimensions. Front-seat space was competitive, and while rear seats appeared less roomy on paper, they provided ample room for passengers. The 540i's trunk space measured 396 litres, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The rear bench featured a 40/20/20 split fold for added versatility. The 16-way power front seats provided comfort and support, though forward visibility was hindered by the long hood.

The 2021 Lexus IS prioritized driver-centred design with an adjustable driver position and comfortable, supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat was standard in IS 350 models, featuring heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, offering an eco-friendly alternative to leather. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and a deep trunk measuring 305.8 litres. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom required negotiation with front-seat occupants.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard. The infotainment screen's location atop the dashboard facilitated easy reading, though the instrument cluster's layout could be improved. A rotary knob controlled infotainment functions, offering a tactile alternative to touchscreens. Gesture controls were available but required learning specific gestures.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Lexus Enform Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote were included with trial subscriptions. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system, available in the Ultra Luxury package, delivered superb sound quality. The subscription model for technology posed potential pitfalls, with some features available only for limited periods.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, lane-keep assist, and emergency stop assist.

The 2021 Lexus IS earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect.