2021 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid was available in base and Touring trim levels, with prices ranging from $36,105 to $42,805. The hybrid powertrain added a premium of about $3,000 to $4,000 over the non-hybrid models. The Accord Hybrid was praised for its stylish design, with minor front styling updates including a new grille, bumper, and headlights. The Touring trim featured new 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, although they were challenging to clean. Inside, the Accord's cabin was upscale, with high-quality materials and a logical control layout. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system was user-friendly, and the car offered excellent outward visibility.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance continued the legacy of the original IS F with a powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. Priced at $72,900 Canadian, it offered a thrilling driving experience with a balance of power and comfort. The IS 500 featured subtle exterior styling changes, including a raised hood and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, it shared similarities with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a comfortable and intimate driving position. The infotainment system was upgraded to a touchscreen, enhancing usability. However, the trunk space was limited at 305 litres.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The system used an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and offered three operational modes: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive. The Accord Hybrid delivered impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 5.5 L/100 km. It provided a smooth and responsive driving experience, with improved throttle response and athletic handling. The brake-by-wire regenerative braking system was praised for its feel and response.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance boasted a 5.0-litre V8 engine with 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive and a limited-slip differential, with driving modes including Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. The IS 500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and featured an adaptive variable suspension for a comfortable ride. The car's brakes were upgraded for improved cooling and performance. Despite its weight, the IS 500 delivered a thrilling driving experience with a captivating engine note.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid impressed with its spacious interior, offering a full-size sedan experience in a midsize package. The driver's seat was 12-way power-adjustable, and the rear seats were generously sized. Touring trim added heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Interior storage was ample, with a large centre console bin and a 473-litre trunk, providing excellent cargo space.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 offered a comfortable cabin with effective climate control and seat ventilation. The front seats were snug yet supportive, while the rear seats accommodated average-height adults. Storage was adequate, but the centre console's touchpad controller took up space. The trunk was small at 305 litres. The IS featured a well-organized control layout with clear markings and a touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Touring trim added a head-up display and navigation with voice recognition. The system required specific prompts for voice commands, and the navigation struggled with certain tasks.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 featured a touchscreen infotainment display, solving previous ergonomic issues. The system was intuitive, with dynamic voice command handling queries effectively. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The IS 500 added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid aimed for a Top Safety Pick+ rating with redesigned LED headlights. It included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Honda Sensing ADAS. The system offered adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist but needed refinement for smoother operation.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. The system was generally effective, but some features were overly sensitive. The IS earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.