2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Hyundai Sonata

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, such as Standard, Luxury, and F Sport, with the Black Line Edition debuting as a limited-production model. The ES's design was characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek, artfully detailed exterior, with the F Sport trim adding sporty elements like 19-inch alloy wheels and unique styling details. Inside, the ES boasted a striking black and white interior with quality materials, offering a luxurious experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata evolved from its early days of mimicking competitors to establishing its own identity. The seventh-generation Sonata, redesigned for 2020, featured a distinctive wide grille, rounded front fascia, and sloped rear roofline. The interior was spacious, with functional design and average material quality. The Sonata N Line added sporty touches, including a body kit, gloss black accents, and N badging, transforming its appearance. The N Line's cabin featured dark chrome trim and red stitching, enhancing its personality. Overall, the Sonata offered a blend of style and practicality, appealing to those seeking a midsize sedan with a unique flair.

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 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 lacked the torque-vectoring AWD system found in competitors like the Acura TLX. 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 Hyundai Sonata offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque was available for the Sport and Luxury trims. The Sonata N Line featured a 290-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, paired with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission and sport suspension. All Sonatas were front-wheel drive, with no all-wheel drive option. The Sonata provided a smooth ride and competent handling, with the N Line delivering a more aggressive driving experience. Overall, the Sonata balanced performance and comfort, appealing to a wide range of drivers.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather provided excellent comfort, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample foot and legroom. The ES offered good outward visibility and plentiful storage, though the trunk space was limited to 394 litres. The hands-free power trunk added convenience, though a panoramic glass roof was absent.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata boasted a spacious cabin with 2,956 litres of passenger space, classified as a "Full-size Car" by Natural Resources Canada. Front-seat headroom and legroom were class-leading, while rear-seat space was adequate for two adults. The Sonata's 453-litre trunk accommodated a complete set of rolling luggage. The Remote Smart Parking Assist feature, available on the Ultimate grade, allowed the Sonata to park itself, adding a touch of modern convenience. Overall, the Sonata offered a practical and spacious interior, appealing to families and those seeking comfort.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad interface that required attention to operate, though dynamic voice command technology offered an alternative. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display provided a visually appealing experience, though it lacked touchscreen functionality. Standard features 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 Hyundai Sonata's infotainment technology varied by trim level. Base SE versions included an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims like the N Line and Ultimate Hybrid offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Bose system delivered impressive sound quality, enhancing the driving experience. The Sonata's infotainment system was user-friendly, with seamless smartphone integration and wireless charging available on select trims.

The 2021 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like 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 the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Highway Driving Assist and a blind-spot view monitor were standard on higher trims. The Sonata received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with "Superior" ratings for crash prevention. The Sonata's safety features worked seamlessly, providing a secure driving experience.