2022 Lexus ES vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

2021 Volkswagen Passat
2021 Volkswagen Passat
$23,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Lexus ES
2022 Lexus ES
$40,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volkswagen Passat
$23,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Lexus ES
$40,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview

MSRP

$23,995

MSRP

$40,950

Average price

$24,264

Average price

$43,138

Listings

96

Listings

10
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Quiet cabin
  • Multiple powertrain options
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Underwhelming base engine

2021 Volkswagen Passat Reviews Summary

In 2011, when a Volkswagen Passat was launched customized for the North American market, VW thought the sedan was the key to domination. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were still the default mid-size sedan choice for most buyers at that time, after all, particularly in the U.S. where mid-size cars were much more strongly preferred. A lot has changed since then: SUVs are surging in popularity, and a diesel-emissions scandal has forced VW to focus more on electric cars. With the flashier Arteon now in the lineup, however, the Passat has been repositioned as VW's value-focused midsize sedan. Both the Passat and the Arteon are nearing the end of their lives here in Canada as they’ll be discontinued at the end of the 2022 model year.

The Passat got a significant update for the 2020 model year, so changes for 2021 are fairly limited. The previously available Comfortline trim level is gone, leaving just the Highline and Execline models. Adaptive cruise control is now standard. Our test car was a U.S.-spec SE model, the closest Canadian equivalent of which would be the Highline, though some equipment varies.

2022 Lexus ES Reviews Summary

Auto manufacturers are always pursuing younger customers, but some cars appeal to a different clientele. The 2022 Lexus ES attracts the softest of buyers, mature adults seeking a mid-size luxury sedan without a giant price tag. Available with four cylinders, six cylinders, or a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, the 2022 Lexus ES starts in Canada at $46,200. In the age of the SUV and at the dawn of electrification, the ES does its best to capture any remaining new car buyers interested in a traditional sedan.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 174 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 203 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

174 hp @ 5200 rpm

Horsepower

203 hp @ 6500 rpm

MPG City

24

MPG City

25

MPG Highway

36

MPG Highway

34
2021 Volkswagen Passat
2021 Volkswagen Passat
$23,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Lexus ES
2022 Lexus ES
$40,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volkswagen Passat
$23,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Lexus ES
$40,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview
MSRP
$23,995
$40,950
Average price
$24,264
$43,138
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.5
5.0
Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Quiet cabin
  • Multiple powertrain options
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Underwhelming base engine
Summary

In 2011, when a Volkswagen Passat was launched customized for the North American market, VW thought the sedan was the key to domination. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were still the default mid-size sedan choice for most buyers at that time, after all, particularly in the U.S. where mid-size cars were much more strongly preferred. A lot has changed since then: SUVs are surging in popularity, and a diesel-emissions scandal has forced VW to focus more on electric cars. With the flashier Arteon now in the lineup, however, the Passat has been repositioned as VW's value-focused midsize sedan. Both the Passat and the Arteon are nearing the end of their lives here in Canada as they’ll be discontinued at the end of the 2022 model year.

The Passat got a significant update for the 2020 model year, so changes for 2021 are fairly limited. The previously available Comfortline trim level is gone, leaving just the Highline and Execline models. Adaptive cruise control is now standard. Our test car was a U.S.-spec SE model, the closest Canadian equivalent of which would be the Highline, though some equipment varies.

Auto manufacturers are always pursuing younger customers, but some cars appeal to a different clientele. The 2022 Lexus ES attracts the softest of buyers, mature adults seeking a mid-size luxury sedan without a giant price tag. Available with four cylinders, six cylinders, or a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, the 2022 Lexus ES starts in Canada at $46,200. In the age of the SUV and at the dawn of electrification, the ES does its best to capture any remaining new car buyers interested in a traditional sedan.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 174 hp I4
2.5L 203 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
174 hp @ 5200 rpm
203 hp @ 6500 rpm
MPG City
24
25
MPG Highway
36
34
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