2020 Lexus ES300h – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Spec
An Oldie, but Goodie
It’s been 9 years since handing over the keys of my ’94 Lexus GS300 go to a used classified buyer. The decision process lead to many appreciable moments I’ve had with it – smooth, quiet, elegant and an overall obsession to perfection that even inspired me. While emotionally restraining, it was economically sensible to move on. The 2020 ES300h hybrid sedan was a cherishing momento of the above.
Despite the viral popularity of cross-over SUV’s, there’s still a strong place for sedans. Sitting lower to the ground, means better comfort and control, and that’s perhaps best describes the Lexus brand trademark.
Add Lexus’ bombproof hybrid powertrain for exceptional fuel economy to the mix – an incredible 5.4L/100km EPA. It’s powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine working in tandem with an AC asynchronous motor and a nickel-metal-hydride battery pack to store electrical charge. This; however, is no innovation and only nets 200 horsepower.
There’s no skimping in luxury amenities. The Lexus ES300h comes standard with a 10-way power adjustable front seats that are both heated and cooled, capacative touch sensors on all four doors, automatic park brake, auto-retracting side view mirrors that will also tilt downwards when you park in reverse to see the sidewalk curb while parking. You can even get an automated rear windshield sunscreen visor that automatically retracts when parking, adaptive front headlamps, front heads-up-display and a larger 12.3″ infotainment touchscreen equipped with navigation, but that will require you to opt in on the ultra-luxury package with an additional $10,000
Some call it a sedan, but a saloon is not far off. The ES300h wheelbase is 113 inches in length, offering exceptional legroom and comfort for up to 3-passengers in the back row seats. That will have to be compromised for tighter parking and slower maneuverability on the road – if that matters.
On the road, the ES300h is what you’d expect – smooth, quiet and obedient. All things considered, it’s not going to give you an adrenaline spike with its limited hybrid powertrain capability, but the amount saved at the fuel pumps will be well worth it to those that opt for it with a starting MSRP of $51,200. The ES350 is available with a more peppy naturally aspirated V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission if power is a higher priority at roughly the same price point.
It’s true, Lexus has never really been known for innovation. Its hybrid powertrain technology dates as far back as 1997. There are alternatives that will blow the ES300h out of the water – the Acura RLX with a 10-speed automatic transmission and AWD with torque vectoring is a great example. The ES300h doesn’t get any of that other than a FWD configuration.
Truth also be told, most manufactures have moved onto new and aruably better things in which most have forgotten their true origin. However, some things are just better unchanged; but rather improved, refined and perfected, and perhaps can even be considered a classic gem.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2020 ES 300h
- Model : 300h
- Price as Tested : $64,106
- Vehicle Type : Luxury Sedan
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Powertrain Configuration : FWD
- Engine : 2.5L 4-cylinder + AC Asynchronous hybrid motor
- Transmission : CVT Transmission
- Horsepower : 200
- Fuel Economy: 5.4L/100km (city and highway combined)
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Excellent fuel economy from hybrid powertrain
- Proven reliability with hybrid powertrain
- Comfortable and quiet
Cons
- No innovation in powertrain
- Under-performance in today’s standards