2021 Nissan Altima vs 2021 Lexus ES

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced similarly to the ES 350 with a 3.5-litre V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel efficiency at a premium. Lexus made blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on most trims, and introduced a limited-production Black Line Edition with unique styling elements. The ES's design, characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek lines, was complemented by the F Sport trim's sporty enhancements, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness.

The 2021 Nissan Altima showcased a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille and sleek, aerodynamic profile. Its design featured a coupe-like roofline and modern elements like LED lighting and alloy wheels, though its stance appeared slightly traditional. The Altima's fit and finish were commendable, with a range of exterior colours available. Inside, the Altima boasted an uncluttered dashboard with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly experience. As trim levels increased, so did the quality of interior materials, providing a more premium feel. Overall, the Altima presented a contemporary yet slightly conventional aesthetic.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with additional Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Black Line Edition provided a sporty driving experience, though it was not an outright sports sedan, maintaining the ES's reputation as a comfortable cruiser.

In Canada, the 2021 Nissan Altima featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, mated to an Xtronic CVT. It came standard with all-wheel drive, offering a front-wheel bias but capable of sending up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels. Fuel consumption ratings were 9.1 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.9 combined for the base model. The Altima's suspension setup included four-wheel independent suspension with stabilizer bars, providing decent feedback and feel. The VC-Turbo engine was not available in Canada, limiting performance options.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a daring yet functional interior layout, with sport-bolstered front seats providing excellent comfort and support. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample foot and legroom, with features like rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. Storage was plentiful but oddly configured, with a trunk capacity of 394 litres. The test car's hands-free power trunk added convenience, though a panoramic glass roof was absent.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan's Zero Gravity front seats, praised for their comfort on long drives. The cabin offered ample storage, including a large glovebox, centre console bin, and door pockets. Rear seats provided good headroom and legroom, with a 60/40 split for trunk access. The trunk capacity was 436 litres, accommodating more cargo than the ES. Overall, the Altima's interior was well-equipped for family use.

The 2021 Lexus ES faced challenges with its touchpad interface, requiring attention to navigate. However, it offered separate climate and stereo controls, dynamic voice command technology, and an optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Nissan Altima came with standard tech features like keyless entry, remote engine start, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system on the Platinum trim. NissanConnect Services offered navigation and connectivity features, enhancing the Altima's tech appeal.

The 2021 Lexus ES included Lexus Safety System 2.0, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and more. ProPilot Assist on the Platinum trim aided highway driving, while the Intelligent Around View Monitor assisted with parking. The Altima also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.