2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2022 Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES, a staple in the Lexus lineup, had evolved over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales, it remained a popular choice among an older demographic. Lexus faced the challenge of attracting younger buyers without alienating its loyal customer base. The ES, built on the Global Architecture-K platform, offered a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with optional all-wheel drive. Its design featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille. Inside, the ES boasted a well-crafted interior with asymmetrical dashboard design, F Sport packaging, and two-tone leather seating, though some elements felt dated.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation with its 2021 redesign. The seventh-generation Elantra featured a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, resulting in a striking four-door-coupe silhouette. Its exterior design, with unique creases and folds, set it apart from competitors. Inside, the Elantra's interior quality improved, offering a comfortable and spacious cabin. While some hard plastics were present, the overall material quality exceeded expectations for its price range. The Elantra was available in multiple trims, including the sporty N Line, which added performance-oriented features and styling elements.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The base ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The ES 350, with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The hybrid ES 300h combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a total of 215 hp, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds. The ES 250 AWD provided a smooth ride but lacked the performance expected in a luxury sedan.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered multiple powertrain options. The standard 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine produced 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed manual or CVT transmission. The Elantra Hybrid featured a 1.6-litre engine paired with a 32-kilowatt electric motor, delivering 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The N Line trim boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed DCT. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension and multi-link rear suspension enhanced its handling dynamics, making it a fun and engaging drive.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a spacious interior with 394 litres of cargo space, even in the hybrid variant. The sedan's lower centre of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to SUVs. Inside, the ES featured heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and ample storage options. The dashboard layout, while functional, lacked visual appeal.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra provided a comfortable and spacious cabin, accommodating small families with ease. Despite its compact size, the Elantra offered excellent visibility and ample legroom. The trunk, with 402 litres of cargo space, could hold a surprising amount of gear. However, the trunk's narrow opening and lack of rear USB ports and air vents were minor drawbacks. The Elantra's moonroof produced a noticeable droning noise when fully open, but overall, it excelled in practicality and comfort.

The 2022 Lexus ES came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Pioneer sound system. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson audio, and navigation. The ES featured a touchpad interface, which was an improvement over previous setups but still challenging to use. A 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its technology offerings. The base Essential trim included an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bose premium audio, and a fully digital instrument cluster. The N Line trim, tested with the 8-inch display, offered seamless smartphone integration and adequate audio performance.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with pre-collision detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The ES also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with automatic emergency braking standard across all trims. Higher trims included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra received a five-star NHTSA rating and "Good" IIHS ratings, with some trims receiving a "Marginal" headlight rating.