2021 Nissan Altima vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Nissan Altima showcased a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille, available in chrome or dark chrome, adorned with the Nissan logo. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile was enhanced by a sloping "coupe-like" roofline, though its stance appeared slightly old-fashioned due to the short dash-to-axle distance. Despite this, modern features like LED lighting and alloy wheels kept its look contemporary. The Altima's fit and finish were exceptional, with deep lustrous paint and rich chrome details, available in six exterior colours with premium options. Inside, the dashboard was uncluttered, featuring a standard 8-inch touchscreen display. The base model felt basic, but higher trims offered improved materials and stitching, providing a more luxurious feel.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance arrived with a powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, producing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, channelled through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model was a nod to the original IS F, offering a thrilling driving experience with its emotional and dynamic performance. Despite its premium price, the IS 500 delivered comfort, quality, and dependability expected from Lexus. It featured exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and subtle styling tweaks, maintaining a stealthy appearance. Inside, the IS 500 shared similarities with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a comfortable interior with quality materials and a wide touchscreen display. However, the touchpad on the centre console was deemed unnecessary, taking up valuable space.

The 2021 Nissan Altima was equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT. Notably, it offered standard all-wheel drive in Canada, enhancing its value compared to front-wheel drive competitors. The AWD system was front-biased but could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels when needed. Fuel consumption ratings were 9.1 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.9 combined for the base model. The Altima featured four-wheel independent suspension and electric-powered steering, providing decent feedback and feel.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance boasted a 5.0-litre V8 engine, producing 472 hp at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It was lighter than the RC F coupe and GS F sedan, with a weight distribution of 56% front and 44% rear. The IS 500 featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. Driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, with a Custom mode for personalized settings. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The IS 500 came with adaptive variable suspension and a Yamaha rear performance damper, providing a comfortable ride and stability. However, it averaged 13.3 L/100 km, falling short of the official rating of 11.9 L/100 km.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats, praised for their comfort on long drives. Standard features included power adjustment and front seat heating, with leather and memory options on higher trims. The front cabin offered ample storage, including a large glovebox, centre console bin, and door pockets. The rear seats provided sufficient headroom and legroom for two adults, with a 60/40 split for trunk access. The trunk capacity was 436 litres.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 offered effective climate control and seat ventilation, essential for comfort in extreme temperatures. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, with excellent thigh support and a driving position that enhanced control. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, but lacked smartphone charging. Storage was limited due to the touchpad controller, and the trunk space was small at 305 litres. The IS featured a well-organized control layout, with clear buttons and knobs, complemented by a touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2021 Nissan Altima came with standard tech features, including keyless entry, pushbutton start, remote engine start, Bluetooth, and a rear-view camera. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen and a 7-inch Drive-Assist display. Higher trims offered SiriusXM satellite radio, a Bose audio system, and Nissan Door to Door Navigation with trial access to connected services.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment display, improving ergonomics. The system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The IS 500 added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The dynamic voice command system was praised for its accuracy and ease of use.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of active and passive safety features, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist was available on the Platinum grade, offering highway driving assistance. The Altima received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2022 Lexus IS came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of driving assistance and collision-prevention technologies. The system included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The IS received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal-impact collision.