Vehicle Tested
| 2013 Lexus ES 300h
Base Price: $38,850
At-Tested Price: $44,159
Built in Japan.
Options
Heated Front Seats
Navigation System
Premium Package
Leather Package
Engine: 2.5-liter I4/Electric, 200 horsepower
Transmission: CVT Automatic
Drive Wheels: Front-Wheel Drive
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The Lexus ES is completely redesigned for 2013. Though still a front-drive, four-door sedan, the new model is larger, sports fresh styling and offers more features than before. The ES competes with vehicles like the Acura TL, Audi A6, Buick LaCrosse, Lincoln MKZ and Volkswagen CC.
Previously, the ES had shared components and drivetrain with the Toyota Camry. In the '13 redesign the new Lexus has much in common with the larger Toyota Avalon. Wheelbase grows from 109.3 inches to 111 inches -- matching the Avalon. Height and width remain unchanged, but overall length grows by five inches and passenger volume increases from 95.4 cubic feet to an even 100.
Two models are offered: ES 350 and ES 300h. The ES 350 starts at $36,370 and comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that's rated at the same 268 horsepower that is was last year. It is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. The ES 300h lists for $39,250 and comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that mates a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors through a CVT automatic to provide a net rating of 200 horsepower.
Safety features abound and include nine air bags, antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control and tire-pressure monitor. Also available are a rear-view camera, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, parking assist and Lexus Pre-Collision System. Also offered are a navigation system, Lexus Enform, Mark Levinson sound system, and voice command.
The ES is built in Japan and has an $895 destination charge.
Get Up and Go The 3.5-liter V6 that powers the ES 350 is one of the smoothest and most refined engines in the class. That's not to say it is the most powerful, but it provides more than adequate punch to move the ES from 0-60 mph in about seven seconds. Passing response is great and the transmission sports a taller final-drive ratio for 2013 that provides more relaxed highway cruising.
The ES 300h shares its powertrain with the Camry and Avalon hybrid models. It's a proven design that delivers adequate performance and commendable fuel economy. When pushed, the engine/electric motor combo will accelerate the ES from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.5 seconds. That's more than adequate for most people but certainly below the average for the class.
The hybrid model has three driving modes EV, Eco and Normal. Normal most closely matches the experience of a traditional gas-only vehicle. Acceleration is quick from a stop and passing response quite good. Set to Eco, acceleration becomes blunted when pulling away and passing maneuvers require some additional planning and a deep stab at the throttle. EV mode only works under certain circumstances and environmental conditions and provides all-electric acceleration at low speeds.
Regardless of model, fuel economy is a plus. The ES 350 is EPA rated at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Those numbers compare favorably to V6-powered competitors. The ES 300h nets an EPA rating of 40 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, which are amongst the best in class. Both engines run fine on regular-grade gasoline.
Real-world commuting with the V6 will yield an average of 20-24 mpg depending on your daily drive. Throw in a healthy dose of gentile highway driving and you're likely to average more than 28 mpg. Hybrid models are even more impressive. Set to Eco mode and employing a few hypermiling tactics you'll easily average 45 mpg around town. If you throw in some highway commuting, you'll likely see that number drop a few mpg.
On the Road The ES has always been one of the smoothest riding luxury cars sold. Period. That doesn't change with the 2013 redesign. Engineers paid close attention to chassis rigidity and weight, giving the ES a stronger structure that was about 50 pounds lighter than before. That combined with a soft suspension provides a stable and relaxed ride that's a bit more controlled than last year.
When the road grows twisty, the ES' comfort-minded tires start to howl quite early -- letting you know this isn't a sport sedan. Body lean is abundant in quick changes of direction and that can unsettle the vehicle a bit. On the plus side, the standard electronically assisted is nicely weighted and has a good on-center feel and the brakes have ample stopping power. Overall, the ES feels more agile than before but won't be the choice for the closet club racer.
Interior noise levels are among the lowest in the class. There's hardly any wind noise and the tires are only noticeable on roughly grooved concrete surfaces. Both engines are whisper quiet when cruising. The V6 emits a refined snarl in hard acceleration. The hybrid four isn't quite as smooth but is certainly not raspy.
Behind the Wheel Designers have "de cluttered" the interior of the ES somewhat. Lines are simple and flowing and things like the vents and dash top morph fluidly from one to the next. Materials are top notch as is assembly.
Gauges are simple and clearly marked. Drivers face a large speedometer and tachometer (or economy meter on hybrid models) with small dials for engine temp and fuel level. In between the large gauges is a driver-information center. The center stack has simple audio and climate controls. Vehicles equipped with the optional navigation system get a display screen that's controlled by a mouse-joystick. While not difficult to operate, it is clearly more cumbersome than a well-designed touch screen and ends up creating greater driver distraction overall.
Front seats are roomy and quite comfortable, though they lack lateral support. Head and leg room are great and getting in and out is a snap. Visibility is also quite good. Rear-seat space is improved over last year and generally best-in-class. Seats are also nicely padded and offer great long-haul comfort.
Trunk space is adequate in gas-only models. Hybrid models see an smaller cargo hold that could be considered substandard. Either way, the trunk lid rides on space eating struts. Interior storage is good with lots of open and covered bins and a good-size center console and glove box.
Bottom Line The Lexus ES has long been one of the strongest selling midsize luxury sedans. Its near-perfect blend of comfort, features, economy and civility make it a great match for the average upscale buyer. For those looking for luxury and top-flight fuel economy, look no further than the ES 300h as you'll find no better match.
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