2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport vs. 2021 BMW 330i
2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport vs. 2021 BMW 330i
Overview
‘Sport sedan' is a subjective term, but these types of vehicles often have sporty performance capabilities combined with luxury materials and tech. The 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport and 2021 BMW 330i are two examples for this year. We compare the two to help you make the best choice for you and your needs.
Exterior (Overall Design)
The BMW for 2021 remains the same in styling as previous generations. The grille is larger than before, getting closer to the size of Lexus' awesome front grille. The polyhedral design of the F Sport gives a three-dimensional effect that really packs a punch. The BMW headlights feature a notch on the bottom, reminiscent of the E46 3 Series. Meanwhile, the Lexus moves their design forward rather than backward, with new slimline bi-LED headlamps that give the car curb appeal fit for 2021. The rear features a taillamp that in the center tapers to just millimeters, continuing the aggressive sculpting.
Interior Features
Within the BMW cabin, the design is a little sparse. This gives quite a clinical feel to the interior. The digital dials are, frustratingly, a little hard to read. The materials are all the high quality you would expect, but there is a coldness, too. Of course, if you're prepared to pay for it, there are options to customize the design. Choices include imitation leather upholstery and ambient lighting. The Lexus has the same level of quality as its rival, combined with an up-to-date and sporty aesthetic. Finishing touches like the black geometric interior trim pattern and wood trim deliver style and sophistication. The touchscreen has been moved closer to the driver in this model, making it even easier to see and use. Taller drivers will be glad for the extra headroom the F Sport provides.
Engines
All the 330is have a turbocharged, four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine, which produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. They also come with launch control, manual and sport shift modes, eight-speed automatic transmission, and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The powerful F sports, however, come with 3.5-liter V6 engines with 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft. The rear-wheel-drive model has eight-speed paddle shifters. Alternatively, choose the all-wheel-drive option, which comes with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Safety Features
The 330i models come with eight airbags compared to ten in the F Sport. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 means that even as standard, the F Sport is fitted out with some top tech. These safety features include pedestrian detection, emergency braking automation, lane departure alerts, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. On the 330i, you would have to pay considerably more for these options to keep yourself and your passengers this safe. BMW only provides automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning as standard. Keeping your wallet safe, too, is a superior powertrain warranty from Lexus that covers you for 6 years or 70,000 miles. BMW offers the same but only for 4 years or 50,000 miles.