Lexus ES300h

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Lexus is known worldwide as Toyota's executive luxury brand and one of its most popular models is the midsize ES300 which first debuted in 1989. Now in its 7th generation since 2018, the stylish four-door sedan now includes two performance-oriented F Sport variants and the ES300h Hybrid.

A Luxury Sedan that gets 45 Miles Per Gallon!

All versions of the Hybrid model come standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 that includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, lane tracing and road sign assist. The ES features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the 10-speaker sound system can be amped up to a 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound audio system, and GPS navigation.
In 2021, the ES300h got a facelift both inside and out, with an updated grille and smaller side scoops. For 2024, there's also new LED running lights and 18-inch Vapor Chrome wheels (17-inch wheels are standard). Inside, a new infotainment system and an upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen debuted this year.
 
The Hybrid's nickel-metal hydride battery was replaced by a more compact lithium-ion battery. The lower height and weight of this battery added trunk space. It also gave the ES improved weight distribution for better handling and performance.

New for 2024

The F Sport Handling variant comes standard with Sport+ and Custom drive modes. It comes with adaptive dampers, parking assist, a moonroof, and wood and aluminum trim inside with aluminum pedals. We think it is the best-looking ES300h ever and is highly regarded for its excellent fuel economy.
 
The 300h is available in five trim levels that include the ES300h base model, the Luxury, Ultra Luxury, F Sport Design, and F Sport Handling variants. Upgrading to the Ultra Luxury trim captures the essence of a refined Lexus sedan adding the 18-inch wheels, quilted semi-aniline leather seats, a hands-free power trunk lid, a power rear sunshade, and a wood and leather steering wheel. You'll also get the larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a DVD player, voice recognition, a smartphone charging pad, and in-dash navigation.

Under the Hood

The combination of a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and electric motor in the ES300h brings 215 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque to the table, a continuously variable automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. The capable powertrain combination will take you from zero to 60 miles per hour in 8.3 seconds. The ride quality and handling are pure Lexus, bringing you the composed ride that you'd expect from a true luxury sedan. The F Sport version quickens your pulse a bit by getting you to 60mph in 7.9 seconds.
 
 The EPA tells us that the ES300h delivers remarkable fuel economy achieving 43 mpg city, 44 mpg highway and 44 mpg combined. During testing on a 200-mile test route for Car and Driver, the Hybrid delivered 45 miles per gallon and you can get nearly 700 miles per tankful. 

All mileage is EPA Estimated.

Inside the Cabin

Open the driver's door of the ES300h and you'll find a sleek and stylish interior made from high-quality premium materials. You'll find plenty of headroom and legroom for five passengers in this plush and posh, quiet and serene environment. The fit and finish in the cabin is perfection itself. You'll find industry leading room in the trunk as well, providing 17 cubic feet of cargo space.
 
While an 8-inch display is standard, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen is optional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and device integration is very user friendly. The standard 10-speaker sound system comes with SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth and music streaming, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and GPS link. An upgrade to the 17-speaker, 1,800-watt, Mark Levinson surround sound audio system places you right in the orchestra pit.
 
A separate control console in the backseat keeps you in control of entertainment, climate control, and more. When it comes to the latest driver assist technology, the ES300h comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. This includes automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. You'll also find 360-degree video backup cameras with Bird's Eye view.

On the Road

In this stunning Hybrid, Lexus has produced a luxury vehicle with an almost Mercedes-like ride quality. First, it is extremely quiet. There is no road noise or tire chirping. Secondly, it is very comfortable, with all the amenities one would expect from a true luxury car and offers a wide and excellent view from all windows. The steering is crisp and lively, and the suspension is tuned to perfection. In Sport Mode, performance is rewarding. It is not as fast or performance oriented as, say, a BMW 5-series, but then, what is?
 
The disc brakes are especially excellent. Even after a full day of use, there is no brake fade. This sedan is super smooth on the road, comes with ten air bags and has been given a Five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And as with all Lexus vehicles, the ES300h is ultra-reliable.
The Wrap Up
While the base model Hybrid offers everything you are likely to want in a luxury sedan under 50K, the more upscale F Sport Handling package includes adaptive dampers, which changes up the entire suspension system.
 
With its elegant design, regal interior, and outstanding best-in-class fuel efficiency, the 2024 Lexus ES300h could be the best midsize luxury sedan in its segment, especially at the price.
 
Starting MSRP = $43,440.