If you've been on the hunt for the perfect luxury sedan, chances are you have come across the BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS. It's no surprise, as these two models are known for their high-powered performances and innovative features. Now, it's time to choose which one is better for your Savannah, Pooler, and Richmond Hill, Georgia, travels.

To help you make this exciting decision, the luxury car pros at Critz BMW have created this informative 2021 BMW 3 Series vs. Lexus IS comparison. Both models are stylish and offer an elevated way to travel, but which one will have the features you simply can't live without? Let's find out.

2021 BMW 3 Series vs 2021 Lexus IS: Performance

Luxury sedans are all about performance, giving you a new reason to slide behind the wheel every day. When you pop the hood open for the BMW 3 Series or Lexus IS, you may think the configurations are similar. However, they're in fact quite different. 

Each car is equipped with a standard 2.0L 4-cylinder engine paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. However, upon closer look, you'll see that the power outputs of these models differ, even with similar setups…

 

2021 BMW 3 Series

2021 Lexus IS

Horsepower

255

241

Torque

294 lb-ft

258 lb-ft

Top Track Speed

Up to 155 MPH

Up to 143 MPH

Zero to 60 MPH Rate

5.6 seconds

6.9 seconds

EPA-Estimated MPG

26 city / 36 highway

21 city / 31 highway

Both models also offer an upgraded engine option for drivers who crave even more power on the road. However, you'll find that the BMW 3 Series comes out on top again. With its available 3.0L 6-cylinder engine, you'll find 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, allowing you to reach 60 MPH in just 4.4 seconds.

With the available 3.5L V6 in the Lexus IS, horsepower maxes out at 311 with a torque of 280 lb-ft. The result? A less powerful drive with a zero to 60 MPH acceleration rate of 5.6 seconds. It just can't compare.

Want to dive in deeper? Read our BMW vs. Lexus comparisons!

3 Series vs IS: Interior Comfort

Whether you're driving to work in the morning or heading out on a family road trip, on-the-go comfort is crucial. Luckily, these luxury sedans have you covered.

The 2021 3 Series pulls out all the stops on its base trim level. Standardly, you'll find 10-way power front seats and Automatic 3-zone Climate Control, giving you optimal comfort. While the first feature offers 2-way power side bolsters and memory settings, the latter lets you set different temps in your cabin: one for you, one for your front-seat passenger, and one for the back.

Plus, the BMW also comes with a 2-way power glass moonroof with 1-touch operation-perfect for letting fresh air in when the weather calls for it.

The 2021 Lexus IS boasts similar standard features in its cabin, though they're not quite as impressive. With its 8-way power front seats and dual-zone climate control, you'll miss out on furthered customized comfort. Plus, though a power moonroof is available for this sedan, it's not standard like in the BMW 3 Series.

2021 BMW 3 Series vs Lexus IS: The Verdict

There's no doubt that the Lexus IS will make your Savannah, Pooler, and Richmond Hill, GA, commutes more enjoyable. Why not elevate them further, though, with a more refined and efficient performance and tons of standard luxury features found in the 3 Series?

To discover what else the BMW 3 Series has in store for you, schedule a test drive with Critz BMW today! We think you'll love showing off in this sophisticated set of wheels.

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