2021 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a staple in the muscle car segment, continued to captivate buyers with its wide array of variants, including the top-tier SRT Hellcat Redeye. Despite its decade-old design, the Charger maintained a distinctive look that resonated with its "brotherhood of muscle" ethos. The widebody styling option added an athletic flair, while the functional performance hood on the SRT Hellcat Redeye enhanced its aggressive stance. The Charger offered a plethora of customization options, from wheel designs to paint colours with evocative names like Hellraisin and Frostbite. However, the interior, though improved over time, still lacked the premium feel expected at higher price points, with a prevalence of hard plastics and utilitarian features reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance brought a blend of luxury and performance, echoing the spirit of the original IS F. With a powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, the IS 500 delivered an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining the comfort and quality synonymous with Lexus. The exterior styling remained subtle, with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the IS 500 shared its layout with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a snug yet comfortable cabin with quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. Despite its compact trunk space, the IS 500 provided a well-rounded package for those seeking a refined yet thrilling ride.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, offering a range of powertrains to suit different preferences. The base models, including the SXT and GT, featured a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine producing up to 300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the Charger R/T boasted a 5.7-litre HEMI V8 with 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, while the Charger Scat Pack upped the ante with a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 delivering 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The pinnacle of the lineup, the SRT Hellcat Redeye, featured a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8, churning out an impressive 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the Charger maintained a connected driving experience, though its fuel efficiency varied significantly across models.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance, with its 5.0-litre V8 engine, offered 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, providing a thrilling yet refined driving experience. The eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and standard limited-slip differential enhanced its performance capabilities. The IS 500 featured adaptive variable suspension and a Yamaha rear performance damper, ensuring a comfortable ride and stable handling. While not as fuel-efficient as some competitors, the IS 500's driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, allowed for a customizable driving experience. The IS 500's performance was complemented by its intoxicating engine note and precise handling, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a spacious four-door sedan, balanced performance with practicality, offering a roomy back seat and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for additional cargo space. The interior, though dated in some aspects, provided easy-to-read instrumentation and a functional steering wheel with accessible controls. Paddle shifters were available on most models, though their placement could lead to accidental gear changes during spirited driving. The Charger's trunk space was average for its class, making it a viable option for families seeking a powerful yet practical vehicle.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance prioritized comfort and convenience, with effective climate control and seat ventilation systems. The front seats offered excellent support and a driver-focused position, while the rear seats accommodated average-height adults with rear air conditioning vents. However, the lack of rear smartphone charging and limited trunk space at 305 litres were notable drawbacks. The IS 500's control layout, with clear buttons and a touchscreen infotainment system, enhanced usability, making it a user-friendly choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came equipped with essential features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Optional upgrades included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio systems, and navigation. However, the lack of a head-up display and the dated Uconnect system detracted from its technological appeal. The Charger's infotainment system, while functional, required navigation through deep menus, and the latest Uconnect version was not yet available.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance featured a modern touchscreen infotainment system, addressing previous ergonomic issues. The system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a dynamic voice command system. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, delivering impressive sound quality. The intuitive controls and voice recognition technology enhanced the overall driving experience, making the IS 500 a technologically advanced option.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, while not crash-tested by the IIHS for 2021, received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included brake assist, electronic stability control, and rear park assist, with additional options like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring available in packages.

The 2022 Lexus IS, equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane keep assist and collision-prevention technologies. The IS 500 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. While some safety features were occasionally intrusive, the IS 500 provided a high level of safety and driver assistance.