2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Lexus IS was a testament to the art of automotive design, reflecting a driver who appreciated athletic elegance. Its stance was both assertive and graceful, with a fast roofline that balanced between a coupe-like dome and a fastback. The IS's exterior was marked by a distinctive spindle grille and narrow headlights, giving it an assertive presence. Inside, the cabin was a blend of simplicity and modernity, with a dash that exuded a retro hi-fi vibe. The interior's bold lines and quality materials matched the exterior's elegance, although the analog clock felt like a relic in an otherwise contemporary setting.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX was more understated in its design, with a subtle front end and signature hood scoop. The WRX's profile was cleaner than its predecessor, with black plastic cladding that served both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes. The rear featured dramatic fender flares and a large bumper, while the taillights were designed to resemble illuminated magma. The WRX's interior saw significant improvements, with better fit and finish, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and sporty accents that distinguished it from other Subaru models. Despite its rally heritage, the WRX's design was more streamlined and modern.

The 2021 Lexus IS was engineered for the luxury sports sedan segment, debuting the "Lexus Driving Signature" for a seamless driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower, while the AWD version had a 3.5-litre V6 producing 260 hp. The IS 350, available only in AWD in Canada, offered 311 hp. The IS's top speed was 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 rated at 11.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 on the highway.

The 2022 Subaru WRX introduced a new 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power increase was modest, the WRX's AWD system and choice of a six-speed manual or CVT transmission offered versatility. The manual transmission was praised for its precision, while the CVT provided faster shift times. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, improved ride quality and reduced body roll. Despite its weight of 1,621 kg, the WRX handled well on challenging roads.

The 2021 Lexus IS prioritized driver comfort with adjustable seating and supportive F Sport seats in the IS 350. The interior featured NuLuxe upholstery, offering a leather-like feel without the maintenance. Storage was ample, with various compartments and a 305.8-litre trunk. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited.

The 2022 Subaru WRX excelled in practicality, with a cargo capacity of 354 litres and a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in cloth, premium cloth, or Ultrasuede. The WRX's standard AWD and comfortable interior made it a viable option for daily commuting.

The 2021 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside Lexus's connected services. The Mark Levinson audio system, available in the Ultra Luxury package, offered exceptional sound quality. However, some features, like navigation, required subscription renewals after three years.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's Starlink infotainment system included an 11.6-inch touchscreen in Sport trims, with physical controls for essential functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration had limitations, the system was user-friendly. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo in higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus IS earned top safety ratings, with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 providing comprehensive driver assistance features. These included pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The IS also featured a robust braking system and Lexus Enform Safety Connect.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT models included the EyeSight suite, offering advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual models lacked EyeSight but included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash safety, with seven airbags as standard.