2023 Lexus ES 300h
Since 2018, this current generation of the Lexus ES continues to prove that the luxury sedan still exists in an SUV world. For Lexus customers, the ES remains relevant as it offers the kind of car that they still want.
There will always be variations on the same theme. To do so, Lexus continues to offer a wide variety of trim options across all three drivetrain options. For example, our 2023 ES tester has both the hybrid driveline and the F Sport package.
Is a combination you would want to own?
After a mild update last model year, the essence of the ES continues to attract its intended customers. On the F Sport, the black mesh Spindle Grille is matched with a narrow set of triple-beam headlamps and boomerang LED driving lights announcing its arrival at your destination. The ES exhibits a sleek profile with a rakish roofline and a sculptured rear deck crowned by a rear spoiler. The taillights are tapered completing the look. We also liked the wide opening doors for better entrances and exits.
Finishing up the exterior look at a set of 19-inch black alloy wheels that contrast well with the gray exterior paint color.
We always like the ES’s stylish cabin. It is complimented with a wide infotainment screen right above the center stack. That screen now uses the Lexus Interface infotainment system and is fully touch capacitive The track pad is now completely absent from the center console.
The F Sport offers the sliding large dial that provides more information on the side screen. The switches for the traction control and drive modes flank the instrument binnacle. The thick-rimmed steering wheel offers tactile controls and a thick rim for better control. The climate control is complete with automatic settings for the heated and cooled seats, as well as dual zones.
Perforated two-tone leather seats offer deep bolstering as expected in an F Sport model. Rear seat room is very good for plenty of bodies. Despite the rakish roofline, someone with a tall torso can find headroom in the rear. The rear seatbacks do fold down to increase the cargo space that is already very generous. With the seatbacks up, there is 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space.
The ES uses the familiar gasoline-electric driveline that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric drive system. Total system power is 215 horsepower. This system runs through an electronic continuously variable transmission sending power to the front wheels.
Power is smooth and quiet. It relaxes and soothes you. Not many sedans in its segment can say that. The fuel consumption reflects the same, as we experienced an average of 43.1 MPG.
By adding the Handling package and its suspension upgrades, our hybrid F Sport adds a level of firmness that does not penalize the ES’s naturally smooth and luxurious ride. The sportier suspension also enhances overall handling. There was nominal roll and lean exhibited through evasive maneuvers and some turns we made along the way.
The steering system is simply just fine with its on-center feel was a bit on the soft side. The ES yielded a good turning radius. The brakes had a bit of “hybrid lag,” while turning in some solid stops in normal and panic situations. However, overall pedal feel was fine.
The 2023 Lexus ES lineup starts with a base price of $43,090. Hybrid models start at $44,490. Our ES 300h F Sport tester came with a sticker price of $54,255.
As a hybrid, the Lexus ES continues to be a leader among electrified luxury sedans in its segment. Specifically, it competes with the BMW 530e, Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan, and Genesis G80 Electrified. The entire ES lineup also competes with the Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, and Cadillac CT5.
If you want a luxurious hybrid sedan, look no further than the Lexus ES 300h. It is a wonderful driving experience for you and your passengers. Add the F Sport model, and you have a beautiful contradiction between sporty luxury and proven efficiency.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
