2021 Lexus IS vs. 2021 Lexus ES: Which to choose? Lexus Pointe-Claire helps you!

The Lexus IS and ES, two luxury sedans with incredible performance that are among the leaders in their respective classes. The first, the IS, has been in production since October 1998 and has met resounding success, continually improving and redefining what you can expect from a premium compact sedan. The ES, on the other hand, has been in production for even longer (beginning in June 1989!), and has proven from the outset that a mid-size luxury sedan doesn't have to be German to offer the best in comfort and technology. Today, it still remains one of the most successful roadsters ever made. For all that, this increasingly puts it in competition with its little sister, the IS, which also delivers first-class dynamic qualities. So for 2021, which of the two Lexus sedans is right for you? Find out with Lexus Pointe-Claire, your Lexus dealer of choice in the metropolitan area, who will help you make the right choice below!

Design: dynamic for the 2021 IS, more classicism for the 2021 ES! 

First of all in this 2021 Lexus IS vs. 2021 Lexus ES comparison: the design. Here, as the saying goes, “to each their own,” meaning it all depends on what you're looking for to travel the roads between the West Island and Laval. If you are looking for a design that is very sharp and athletic, you will have to turn to the IS. With its ultra-chiseled headlights and gaping grille starting at the end of the hood and ending at the bottom of the front bumper, it's hard to be more expressive! The IS confirms this first impression from the side with a sculpted lower body and a low roofline, but also at the rear with its very sporty trunk spoiler overlooking a very sharp light bar that spans the entire vehicle width.

The Lexus ES, on the other hand, is more of a quiet strength, as much in its looks as in its size. While the IS is 4,710 mm long, the ES is longer (4,975 mm). The result is a more statuesque look that the design brilliantly exploits via its elegant front grille and tapered but stylish headlights, which give it impressive natural charisma. From the side, the ES offers a more classic sedan profile that remains surprisingly fluid. It confirms this with taillights that are less angular than those of the IS. It's clear here that the ES is more focused on the spirit of a more conventional luxury sedan that favors refinement over raw sportiness. 

Thus, if you prefer compact and athletic lines, the 2021 IS will be your best choice. If, on the other hand, you prefer a charismatic and reassuring appearance while remaining dynamic around Montreal, you'll have to turn to the 2021 ES.

Engines: more sportiness for the IS compared to the ES.

The second chapter of this duel: powertrains. On this point, the IS outperforms the ES by a wide margin in terms of horsepower for 2021. Indeed, whether it's the IS 300 RWD (241-hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder) or AWD version (260-hp 3.5L V6), or the IS 350 AWD variant (311-hp 3.5L V6), the IS delivers higher figures every time.

Indeed, in its least powerful variant, the 250 AWD (sometimes called "ES AWD"), the 2021 ES only develops 203 hp, which is far less than its less dynamic little sister. On the other hand, it offers all-wheel drive with its less powerful engine. The same goes for the 2021 ES 300h, which offers only 215 hp with its powertrain, which is still far below the IS 300's. Only the ES 350 will deliver a firepower that surpasses the latter in its two variants mentioned above, with no less than 302 hp from its 3.5L V6. However, this is still not enough to beat the IS 350 and its 311 hp.

Besides, another difference in size: the drive systems proposed. While the ES is only available as a single variant with all-wheel drive (ES 250 AWD), the IS offers a choice of rear-wheel drive only or four-wheel drive. This clearly demonstrates the performance-oriented nature of the IS, as opposed to the ES, which is primarily a sedan with an emphasis on comfort. Hence, if you want the ultimate in performance, only the 2021 IS will satisfy you. If, on the other hand, you want peace of mind behind the wheel or as a passenger, the 2021 ES is a better choice.

Interiors: sporty in one corner, comfort-oriented in the other.

Finally, the centerpiece of both Lexus sedans is the interior. Once again, the difference in design philosophy and mechanics resurfaces here. The 2021 IS, on the other hand, will offer you a cabin with clean, sober lines, so that you, as a driver, can concentrate on your driving pleasure. The steering wheel offers optimum grip, and the gearshift lever is within easy reach. The ES, on the other hand, offers a visually richer cabin, with more complex lines for its dashboard. The latter is also more spacious in the ES than in the IS, thanks in part to a longer wheelbase (2,870 mm vs. 2,800 mm for the IS).

However, when it comes to the equipment that the two high-end Lexus sedans carry, one is no better than the other; you'll always get the best of Lexus technology! Dual-zone air conditioning, heated and ventilated seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces for smartphones, or a 10.3-inch display: depending on the vehicle and the version, you'll enjoy the ultimate Lexus experience from the West Island to Laval, including Montreal! But if you prefer a dynamic driving experience, the IS will once again be your best cockpit option. For a more fluid driving experience, opt for the ES.

Conclusion: the 2021 IS for sport, the 2021 ES for comfort in Montreal!

If you're looking for aggressive styling with a mechanical and ergonomic interior in tune with the times, opt for the 2021 Lexus IS. If, on the other hand, you're looking for a sedan with more interior space and comfort, turn to the 2021 Lexus ES. Still have questions? Contact one of our advisers at Lexus Pointe-Claire, your dealer of choice in Montreal between West Island and Laval, and we will answer all your questions. We look forward to hearing from you!