2016 Lexus ES Buyer's Guide

Uniquely positioned among the industry’s luxury marques, Lexus has a hybrid version of each of its four-door sedans. Holding down the mid-size spot in the lineup is the 2016 Lexus ES 300h. While the marketplace considers the Lexus ES an entry-level luxury model, apparently the product planners at Lexus are either huge into overachieving, or word of the car’s station somehow escaped their notice. We’re saying all of this in an attempt to explain how the Lexus ES is easily one of the nicest models in the segment. Further, the mid-size hybrid Lexus sedan delivers calmness, smoothness, and sophistication on par with a number of the leading luxury manufacturer’s flagships. This, when added to the fact ES 300h is capable of delivering 40 miles per gallon, is exceptionally impressive.

What's the difference between trims?

• Lexus premium audio system
• Hybrid powertrain
• Keyless access with pushbutton start
• Bluetooth connectivity

• 3.5 Liter V6
• Power moon/sunroof
• LED headlights
• Bluetooth connectivity

What makes it move?

The 2016 Lexus ES 300h powertrain is comprised of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor for a total system output of 200 horsepower. The system is configured to permit the ES 300h to run either on electricity or gasoline or a mixture of the two depending upon the situation and the drive mode selected. Power is routed to the front wheels through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 40 MPG in the city, 39 highway and 40 combined.

Why buy the 2016 Lexus ES?

For the 2016 Lexus ES 300h, the product team prescribed an even bolder take on the signature Lexus “Spindle” grille treatment. Meanwhile, the new LED headlights add considerably to the appearance of the Lexus model at night. The front end’s redesign also moved the foglights out to the corners of the car for better dispersion, and to enhance the wide stance of the mid-size Lexus. At the rear, the new “L-themed” taillights and revised exhaust outlets mimic those of the flagship Lexus LS. The ES 300h’s driver’s aid systems have been aggregated into a package known as the Lexus Safety System+. This combines the car’s Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam, and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control into one bundle.