2021 Lexus IS vs 2022 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Lexus IS was a statement of athletic elegance, with its dynamic design capturing motion even at a standstill. Its fast roofline and compact cabin gave it a sporty appearance, while the signature spindle grille and narrow headlights added an assertive touch. Inside, the dash was simple yet bold, with a retro hi-fi feel that matched the exterior's modern aesthetic. However, the analog clock seemed outdated amidst the contemporary design.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Corolla aimed to shed its reputation for dullness with extroverted styling, featuring scowling LED headlights and a wide grille. Different trims offered unique styling elements, such as the aggressive front fascia of the SE and XSE models. The Apex Edition, with its body kit and model-specific wheels, added a sporty flair. Despite these efforts, the Corolla's design wasn't as cohesive as some competitors, but it still managed to stand out in its Cement Grey guise.

The 2021 Lexus IS was engineered for the luxury sports sedan category, 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, with its 311 hp V6, offered a more powerful option. The IS's handling was precise, thanks to its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. 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 Toyota Corolla offered two engine options: a 1.8-litre four-cylinder with 139 hp for the L, LE, and XLE trims, and a 2.0-litre engine with 169 hp for the SE and XSE models. The Apex Edition shared the latter engine but added a sport exhaust system. The Corolla's handling was enhanced by the Apex Edition's unique suspension, making it more nimble, though at the cost of ride comfort. All Corollas were FWD, with a manual transmission available for the sportier trims.

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. Rear seating was comfortable for two, though legroom was limited.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla provided decent headroom and legroom, though forward visibility was compromised by the deep dashboard. The driver's seat was positioned for optimal comfort, but taller drivers might find knee space lacking. The Corolla's 371-litre trunk was smaller than some competitors, but the 60/40 split-folding rear seat added versatility. Interior storage was limited, with a thin centre console and small phone tray.

The 2021 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside Lexus's connected services. A standout option was the Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system, offering exceptional sound quality. However, some features, like navigation, required subscriptions after initial trial periods.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's infotainment system was less advanced, with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system, with a JBL system available on higher trims. The interface was user-friendly, but the graphics appeared dated, and wireless connectivity was absent.

The 2021 Lexus IS earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering features like pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a backup camera.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla also received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was available on higher trims, enhancing its safety credentials.