2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2021 Lexus IS

The 2021 Lexus IS was a testament to the brand's commitment to style and elegance. Its athletic proportions and dynamic stance made a bold statement, capturing the essence of motion even when stationary. The design featured a fast roofline and a distinctive kick-up at the window base, enhancing its sporty appearance. The signature spindle grille, adorned with diamond mesh, and narrow headlights contributed to its assertive look. Inside, the IS offered a tastefully simple dash with a retro hi-fi feel, aligning with the exterior's bold and modern aesthetic. However, the analog clock seemed outdated amidst the otherwise contemporary design.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i xDrive, exuded a blend of performance and style. The Barbera Red paint and Cognac-colour SensaTec upholstery added a touch of luxury, while the M Performance exterior design treatment, including exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and blue brake calipers, emphasized its sporty nature. The 19-inch wheels and high-performance tires provided a perfect stance. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery mimicked leather, and the technical design focused on driving enjoyment rather than plush elegance, maintaining the 3 Series' legacy of quality materials and complementary tones.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The AWD variant came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350, available only with AWD in Canada, delivered 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The IS boasted a top speed of 230 km/h, with acceleration from 0 to 60 mph ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 11.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 on the highway.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, specifically the M340i, was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, delivering 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. The engine featured 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, achieving a fuel consumption rating of 9.2 L/100 km in combined driving. The M340i accelerated to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, offering thrilling performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission, M Sport differential, and standard xDrive AWD system contributed to its dynamic handling. The M340i's driving dynamics were enhanced by the M Sport suspension and optional Adaptive M Suspension, providing a perfect balance of comfort and athleticism.

The 2021 Lexus IS prioritized driver comfort with a well-designed driving position and supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seats, standard in IS 350 models, included heating and ventilation. The IS featured NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, offering the look and feel of leather without the added cost. Interior storage was ample, with various compartments and a 305.8-litre trunk. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited for three.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i, offered power-adjustable front sport seats with excellent support. The driving position was ideal, complemented by a thick-rimmed steering wheel. Rear seat passengers enjoyed adequate legroom, making the 3 Series suitable for four tall occupants. The three-zone automatic climate control system and heated front seats added to the comfort. Interior storage was decent, and the 481-litre trunk provided ample cargo space. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added versatility, though a sports wagon variant would have been a welcome addition.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside Bluetooth connectivity. Lexus Enform Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote offered various connected services with trial subscriptions. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system, available in the Ultra Luxury package, delivered exceptional sound quality, appealing to 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 display. BMW iDrive 7.0 was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including gesture control. The 3 Series came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system available. Connected Package Pro included BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Lexus IS earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and more. The IS also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a backup camera.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and lane-departure warning. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant added semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. The lane-keeping assist technology was particularly noteworthy for its effectiveness.