2021 Lexus IS vs 2021 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its past reputation of being a generic sedan by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. The design featured flared wheel arches and slim headlights and taillights, which helped to visually broaden the car. However, the SE and XSE trims were criticized for their excessive use of fake vents, adding unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims offered a slightly cleaner grille design, though it remained quite large. The Camry was built on the TNGA-K platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Avalon and RAV4. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of contrasting materials and elements that lacked a cohesive design theme, resulting in a somewhat low-rent feel.

The 2021 Lexus IS, on the other hand, presented itself as a reflection of its driver's personality, with an athletic stance and elegant proportions. The design captured a sense of motion even when stationary, with a fast roofline and a distinctive kick-up at the window base. The signature spindle grille and narrow headlights contributed to its assertive look. Inside, the IS featured a simple yet bold dashboard design, with a retro hi-fi feel. The interior's modern aesthetic was complemented by high-quality materials and build, though the analog clock felt outdated. Overall, the IS exuded a sense of luxury and sportiness, aligning with its status as a luxury sports sedan.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with front-wheel drive (FWD), and slightly less with all-wheel drive (AWD). The XSE trim's dual-exhaust system increased output to 206 hp and 186 lb-ft with FWD. A 3.5-litre V6 engine was also available, delivering 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for a total of 208 hp. The SE Nightshade Edition, with its base four-cylinder and AWD, surprised with its sporty, eager-to-rev nature and balanced chassis tuning, offering a fun driving experience without the TRD package's enhancements.

The 2021 Lexus IS was developed with a focus on delivering a luxury sports sedan experience, tested at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version had a 3.5-litre V6 producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft. The IS 350, available only with AWD in Canada, offered 311 hp and 280 lb-ft from the same V6. The IS's driving dynamics were precise and balanced, with a top speed of 230 km/h and 0-60 mph times ranging from 6.9 to 5.6 seconds. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD rated at 11.0 L/100 km city and 7.6 highway, increasing with AWD.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was slightly compromised. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility. Cargo space was average at 428 litres, with limited in-cabin storage. The Camry featured analog controls for key functions, enhancing usability, though some controls were a long reach from the driver's seat. Dual-zone automatic climate control was available on higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centric design, with an easily adjustable driver position and comfortable, supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seats were standard in IS 350 models, featuring heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, offering a leather-like feel without the cost or maintenance. Storage was ample, with various compartments and a deep trunk offering 305.8 litres of space. The rear seats were comfortable for two but cramped for three, with legroom requiring negotiation with front occupants.

The 2021 Toyota Camry's standard infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE trims. The system was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and limited USB ports.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside a touchpad. Lexus Enform services offered various connected features, with free trial periods for owners. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a standout option, available in the Ultra Luxury package on the IS 300 AWD. The system delivered superb sound quality, appealing to audiophiles.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It featured the TSS 2.5+ package with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. New for 2021 was the Rear Seat Reminder, designed to prevent leaving children or pets unattended. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available as options.

The 2021 Lexus IS also received top safety ratings, with the IIHS noting minor issues with certain headlights. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect, offering emergency assistance and collision notification.