The quest for the ideal sedan often involves balancing luxury, comfort, and fuel efficiency. In today’s market, hybrid sedans are increasingly becoming the answer for discerning drivers. Among the top contenders in this segment is the Lexus ES, a vehicle that prioritizes a serene and comfortable driving experience. Sharing its foundation with the Toyota Camry, the Lexus ES distinguishes itself by focusing on premium comfort and a hushed cabin, setting it apart from competitors that emphasize sporty handling.
Unlike some rivals that opt for a firmer ride in pursuit of sporty dynamics, the 2025 Lexus ES is engineered for exceptional smoothness. Its finely tuned suspension adeptly absorbs road imperfections, shielding occupants from jarring bumps. True to Lexus’s reputation, the cabin is meticulously crafted with sound-deadening materials, effectively isolating passengers from external noise, creating a tranquil environment within.
Under the hood, front-wheel-drive Lexus ES gas models boast a refined V6 engine producing 302 horsepower. This powertrain delivers ample power for confident merging and effortless cruising in varied traffic conditions. All-wheel-drive variants are equipped with a 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine. However, the hybrid models truly shine, combining a four-cylinder engine with electric motors to generate a combined 215 horsepower. These hybrid versions excel as commuter vehicles, achieving impressive fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg, making them some of the Best Rated Hybrid Sedans for efficiency.
Stepping inside, the Lexus ES cabin is a testament to sophisticated design and high-quality materials. Even lower trim levels feature attractive simulated leather, while higher trims indulge occupants with genuine leather in a range of elegant color palettes. Both front and rear passengers enjoy generous space, and the trunk capacity is competitive within the midsize luxury sedan class. A state-of-the-art infotainment system is centered around a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, offering seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a responsive voice recognition system.
Safety is also a paramount consideration in the Lexus ES design. While the 2024 model year saw a dip in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings due to revised testing, the 2025 Lexus ES regained the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) highest five-star safety rating. Furthermore, every Lexus ES trim is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, providing drivers with enhanced peace of mind.
When considering competitors, the Acura TLX emerges as a close alternative, although it leans more towards a sporty driving feel compared to the ES’s luxury focus. The rear-wheel-drive Genesis G70 and Genesis G80 offer sharper handling and opulent interiors, positioning themselves around the ES in terms of size. While mild-hybrid technology is present in some midsize luxury sedans, the Lexus ES stands out as the only full hybrid in its segment, excluding the all-electric Genesis Electrified G80. For those seeking a blend of luxury, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, the Lexus ES Hybrid firmly establishes itself as one of the best rated hybrid sedans available today.
