A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.7
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a premium executive saloon that combines Japanese reliability with luxury refinement? The Lexus ES delivers exactly that blend in a competitive segment. This large saloon positions itself as a sophisticated alternative to German rivals, offering exceptional build quality and a smooth, comfortable driving experience. The ES stands out with its distinctive spindle grille design and spacious interior that prioritises passenger comfort above all else. While competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class focus on sporty dynamics, the Lexus takes a different approach with its whisper quiet cabin and supple ride quality. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy for such a large car, making it an appealing choice for business users and families alike. Whether you’re considering it as a company car or looking for a reliable luxury saloon, the ES offers a compelling package that emphasises comfort and dependability over outright performance.
What's the Lexus ES Like to Drive?
The Lexus ES is designed around smooth, refined hybrid power rather than outright performance. The 2.5-litre hybrid system combines a petrol engine with electric motors to produce around 218 horsepower. This setup prioritises efficiency and smoothness over acceleration, with 0-60mph taking around 8.9 seconds. The power delivery feels seamless and quiet, making it ideal for relaxed cruising rather than spirited driving.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.5L Hybrid Petrol
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Power Output
218 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.9 seconds
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MPG Combined
50-55 mpg
- Boot Space
- 454 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Lexus ES?
Step inside and you’ll immediately notice the ES’s focus on luxury and refinement. The cabin features high quality leather upholstery, real wood trim, and soft touch surfaces throughout. The dashboard layout is clean and logical, with Lexus’s infotainment system controlled via a large touchscreen. Build quality is exceptional, with everything feeling solid and precisely assembled. The attention to detail extends to small touches like the smooth operation of switches and the satisfying thunk of closing doors.
The Lexus ES is a refined, cabin-focused executive saloon that prioritises comfort and craftsmanship over raw performance. Its hybrid powertrain delivers smooth, whisper-quiet acceleration, though it lacks punch for spirited driving. The interior’s premium materials and serene ambiance set it apart, while its fuel efficiency and reliability make it a compelling alternative to German rivals. However, its restrained dynamics may leave enthusiasts wanting more.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Lexus ES?
As a hybrid executive car, the ES offers impressive running costs for its class. The hybrid powertrain delivers excellent real world fuel economy, typically achieving 50-55 MPG in mixed driving conditions. This translates to lower fuel bills compared to traditional petrol or diesel alternatives. Insurance groups are reasonable for a premium saloon, though they’ll be higher than mainstream family cars.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Lexus ES
|
BMW 3 Series
|
Mercedes C-Class
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £35,000 | £34,000 | £36,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid | 2.0L Petrol | 1.5L Petrol |
| Power | 218 bhp | 184 bhp | 170 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.1 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 55 mpg | 42 mpg | 46 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 454 litres | 480 litres | 455 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Hybrid efficiency, Premium comfort, Excellent reliability | Dynamic handling, Advanced tech, Sporty feel | Luxury interior, Smooth ride, Premium badge |
Is the Lexus ES Practical for Everyday Use?
For an executive saloon, the ES offers good practical credentials. The 454-litre boot provides ample space for luggage, golf clubs, or a weekly supermarket shop. The boot opening is wide and the loading lip is reasonably low, making it easy to load heavy items. The rear seats fold in a 60:40 split to extend cargo capacity when needed for longer items.
I’ve owned my ES for two years and it’s been absolutely faultless. The comfort is exceptional and the fuel economy is genuinely impressive. The build quality feels like it will last forever and the dealer service has been excellent throughout.
The Lexus ES stands out in the executive saloon market by focusing on what many drivers actually want: comfort, refinement, and reliability. It wraps these qualities in an attractive, well built package that feels genuinely premium. While it may not offer the sportiest driving dynamics, it excels in areas that matter for daily driving: a quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel economy.