2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

The 2021 Lexus IS was a statement of elegance and athleticism. Its design captured motion even when stationary, with a fast roofline and a distinctive spindle grille. The interior matched this bold exterior with a modern aesthetic, though the analog clock felt outdated. The IS was crafted with precision, offering a tastefully simple dash and high-quality build.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback aimed to capture the dwindling hatchback market with a practical yet stylish design. It shared similarities with the Civic sedan but featured unique elements like a different grille and wheel designs. The interior was modern, with digital instrumentation and a focus on comfort, though some features like the front passenger seat adjustment could have been improved.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 241 horsepower in the IS 300 RWD. The IS 300 AWD featured a 3.5-litre V6 with 260 hp, while the IS 350 AWD delivered 311 hp. The IS was engineered for precision, with a top speed of 230 km/h and acceleration from 0-60 mph in as little as 5.6 seconds. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 9.5 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback provided a choice between a 2.0-litre engine with 158 hp and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with 180 hp. The latter offered accessible torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm. The Civic was front-wheel drive only, with a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission. It delivered a balanced ride, though not as sporty as some might desire. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with the CVT achieving 7.1 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver comfort with adjustable seating and ample storage. The rear seats were comfortable for two, and the trunk offered 305.8 litres of space. The use of NuLuxe fabric provided a leather-like feel without the maintenance.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback excelled in functionality with a 693-litre trunk and a two-piece cargo shade. The rear seats folded 60/40, though the load floor wasn't flat. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and thoughtful features like heated seats and smartphone charging ports, though rear air vents were absent.

The 2021 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It included Lexus Enform services with trial subscriptions and an optional Mark Levinson audio system. The tech was comprehensive, though some features required subscriptions after trial periods.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback boasted a new infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen in the Sport Touring trim. It offered wireless connectivity, a Bose audio system, and improved user interfaces. The inclusion of physical knobs and a hand-steadying shelf enhanced usability.

The 2021 Lexus IS earned top safety ratings, equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering features like pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. It included a comprehensive suite of safety technologies and received high marks from safety organizations.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It introduced new features like Traffic Jam Assist and Low-Speed Braking Control. The Civic also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating, though some driver aids were less smooth in operation.