HYBRID, ANYONE?: LEXUS ES 300H TEST DRIVE
Model Choices includes FWD, AWD, self-charging hybrid powertrain
ES 300h models feature a self-charging hybrid electric powertrain built around a 2.5L 4-cylinder Atkinson Cycle engine
Starting MSRP $54,350
First Impressions
She’s sleek, she’s sexy, she’s spacious and dripping in luxury.
I got my hands on the Lexus ES 300h F Sport for a little under a week and loved every second of it! The signature Lexus spindle grille , announces the ES’ presence at every corner and it’s clear that Lexus has taken particular care to elevate the exterior and interior of the vehicle with small details. The bamboo wood trim laced throughout the interior of the vehicle, including the steering wheel are beautiful touches. I’m even into the small analogue clock that I’ll 100% never read or use but this level of detail is something I expect to see in luxury test drives moving forward! Without input — the ventilated leather seats would switch from heating or cooling your booty depending on the heat setting in the car itself. Very intuitive and I like a car that doesn’t always need me to tell it what to do.
FIRST FEW DRIVES
I drove to hell and back in this Lexus ES to get a good feel for it, and it didn’t disappoint!
I picked up the car in Markham with a full tank and full EV range and drove it to Brampton. I then drove it to Oakville, to Milton, back to Oakville and to Muskoka — a total of about 387km in ONE day. I was amazed by the fact that when I got to Muskoka and had a little under half a tank left. The ES is a hybrid, the electric motor offering using a regenerative braking system to keep it charged up. I loved the smooth feel, the wireless charging pad actually worked and the touchscreen was very intuitive. It had limited capabilities when the car was in motion which is always great when it comes to safety and making sure the driver is paying attention HOWEVER…. I do wish automakers would allow the infotainment system to have full range capabilities when there is someone sitting in that passenger seat.
BRYDON’S final THOUGHTS
The husband had quite a few things to say as he came along the ride with me:
I really liked the finer elements in the vehicle, the fact the armrest console opened on both sides shows the level of detail put into designing the Lexus. It falls just short with the sound system and the roof lining — I wish a more high end sound system was in the ES and that the roof lining was black to match the interior of the car. I will say the sleek and modern design, extra leg room for front and back passengers, and paddle shifters being stainless steel/titanium won me over.
steph’s Final Thoughts
Overall, if I had to rate this ride I’d give it an 8/10
I would expect better designed temperature controls for a luxury mid-size sedan like this one. I usually drive but can definitely appreciate the multiple charging ports available to passengers in the backseat. One of the biggest bonuses of this ride is the fact that it runs on regular fuel. That’s a HUGE win for me! The Lexus ES 300h has a wonderful balance of comfort, fuel economy and pretty decent performance. The lane assist was taking me around bends and twists in the road with minimal failure, making my ride feel extra safe and the smooth.