2022 BMW 3 Series 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. The ES lineup included various packages, with the Black Line Edition standing out for its 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. Inside, the black and white interior of the test car provided a striking contrast, underscoring the Lexus's commitment to quality materials and high design.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a range of models, from the 330i to the high-performance M3 Competition. The M340i xDrive, our test vehicle, featured a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering impressive performance. The M340i's exterior design included exclusive M Performance elements, while the interior boasted Cognac-coloured SensaTec upholstery and a SensaTec dashboard wrap. The 3 Series maintained its reputation for driving enjoyment, with a focus on technical design rather than luxury. The M340i's styling and performance made it a standout in the lineup, offering a thrilling driving experience.

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. 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, with its adaptive damping suspension, offered Sport+ and Custom driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. Despite its reputation as a comfortable cruiser, the ES 350 demonstrated unexpected competence and athleticism, though it remained a sporty sedan rather than a true sports sedan.

The 2022 BMW M340i featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M340i accelerated to 100 kilometres per hour in 4.3 seconds, showcasing its impressive speed. The car's M Sport suspension and variable sport steering contributed to its dynamic handling, while the optional Adaptive M Suspension further enhanced its driving dynamics. The M340i's performance was thrilling, with precise handling and a responsive drivetrain, making it a standout in the 3 Series lineup.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats featuring 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seat provided ample foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The trunk measured 394 litres, with a hands-free power trunk for added convenience. Despite its unusual storage configuration, the ES provided excellent outward visibility and comfort for passengers.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, specifically the M340i, featured power-adjustable front sport seats with excellent support and a perfect driving position. Rear seat passengers enjoyed adequate legroom, though the centre rear seating position was less practical. The 3 Series offered a 481-litre trunk with a 40/20/40-split folding design for added utility. The interior storage space was decent, and the car included a three-zone automatic climate control system. The M340i's interior focused on practicality and comfort, with a sporty edge.

The 2021 Lexus ES faced challenges with its touchpad interface, requiring drivers to look at the screen while navigating. However, the car's dynamic voice command technology and separate climate and stereo controls offered positive aspects. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display, though not a touchscreen, provided a visually appealing interface. The ES included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker premium sound system, with an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson system for audiophiles.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series featured the optional Digital Cockpit Professional with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. BMW iDrive 7.0 offered intuitive controls, including a centre console knob, touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. The car included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, with an available 16-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Intelligent Personal Assistant provided conversational voice recognition, enhancing the car's technology package.

The 2021 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and city-speed automatic emergency braking. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant were available for added safety. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, providing confidence in its safety performance.