BMW 2 Series vs Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving 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. The interior, while precisely assembled, had an asymmetrical dashboard and sporty F Sport packaging, which added a touch of flair to the otherwise conservative design.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, in its second generation, showcased a new exterior design without the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. In Canada, it was available in the all-wheel-drive M240i xDrive Coupe form, with the four-door Gran Coupe also offered. The 2 Series Coupe had an extended wheelbase, making it longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor. Its design featured a wider kidney grille, flared fenders, and reshaped headlights, giving it an aerodynamic appearance. The M240i xDrive Coupe boasted performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents and 19-inch M light alloys. The interior was driver-oriented, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather, offering a high-end vibe despite some cost-cutting materials.

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 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds. 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 ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a net 215 hp, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds. The ES 250 AWD provided standard all-wheel drive, while the ES 350 and ES 300h were front-wheel drive. The ES 300h excelled in fuel economy, with ratings of 5.5 L/100 km city, 5.2 hwy, and 5.3 combined.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series M240i xDrive Coupe packed a punch with its 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine, producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of up to 250 km/h. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth shifts, enhanced the driving experience. The M240i xDrive Coupe came standard with performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes. While the 2 Series offered impressive performance, some enthusiasts found the steering feel numb and the driving experience disconnected, a common issue in modern performance cars.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a spacious interior with 394 litres of cargo space, even in the hybrid ES 300h. The second row in the ES 250 and ES 350 folded flat, providing additional storage for larger items. 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 automatic climate control, and a standard moonroof. The dashboard layout, while functional, was not particularly attractive.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe, though small, offered a relatively spacious front seating area. However, the rear seats were cramped, suitable only for children or short trips. The slanted roofline and shorter trunk lid limited rear headroom and cargo access. The 2 Series provided 283 litres of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft touchpoints, improved ergonomics, and a layout similar to other new BMW models.

The 2022 Lexus ES came 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 17-speaker audio, and navigation. The ES included a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services provided safety, service, and remote features.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, iDrive 7, and over-the-air updates. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital display, and the BMW Digital Key. The standard audio system included 10 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker system. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

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

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with standard safety features like active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights and BMW Drive Recorder. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA.