2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata presented a bold redesign that was both distinctive and polarizing. Its broad grille and tapered tail made it instantly recognizable, while the N Line version enhanced its appeal with functional and stylistic changes. The front fascia was reworked to include larger air intakes, which improved engine cooling and drew attention away from the unique daytime running lights. Gloss black side mirrors, window surrounds, and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels differentiated the N Line in profile, while a subtle gloss black lip spoiler and a reworked bumper with a four-outlet exhaust system added to its stealthy performance look. Inside, the Sonata N Line featured sport front seats with Nappa leather bolsters and Dinamica suede inserts, red stitching, aluminum pedal covers, and dark chrome accents, creating a sporty yet refined interior.

The 2021 Lexus IS made a statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. Its stance and fast roofline gave it a dynamic appearance, while the spindle grille and narrow headlights added an assertive touch. The IS's design captured motion even when stationary, and its elegance was evident in the distance between the front axle and dashboard. Inside, the dash was simple yet stylish, with a retro hi-fi feel. The interior matched the exterior's bold choices, with authentic lines and high build quality. However, the analog clock felt outdated in the context of the modern design.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 290 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm. It featured an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters, rev-matching, and a launch control system. Drivers could choose from Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, and the car included an Active Sound Design engine note enhancement system. The Sonata N Line's sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and improved steering made it a joy to drive on mountain roads, with minimal understeer and excellent handling. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though real-world testing showed an average of 9.9 L/100 km.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of engine options, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque for the IS 300 RWD, and a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque for the IS 300 AWD. The IS 350 models, available only with AWD in Canada, had the same V6 engine tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The IS featured an eight-speed automatic transmission for RWD models and a six-speed automatic for AWD models. The IS 350 RWD could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD rated at 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line offered heated front sport seats with Dinamica suede inserts for comfort and support. The front passenger seat had a manual height adjuster, and rear-seat passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and a USB port. The Sonata's trunk volume was 453 litres, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The hands-free trunk release feature was convenient, though the lack of an interior handle meant getting hands dirty when closing the trunk.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver comfort with a great driving position and supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat was standard in IS 350 models, with heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and cupholders. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited. The trunk offered 305.8 litres of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare stored beneath the load floor.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Blue Link connected services but lacked a WiFi hotspot. The infotainment system's design was sleek, but the lack of a tuning knob and the placement of the volume control knob were frustrating. The system offered Sounds of Nature for stress relief.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with Bluetooth. Lexus Enform Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote were included with trial subscriptions. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was available in the Ultra Luxury package for the IS 300 AWD. The system was praised for its sound quality and included a CD player.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning, and more. The N Line also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system and Safe Exit Warning. The standard Sonata received high safety ratings, but the N Line had not been independently tested.

The 2021 Lexus IS received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. It included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and more. The IS also had a backup camera, LED lights, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect.