Crafted Comfort: Lexus ES 300h Sedan Review

Having explored numerous Lexus models, the perpetual refinement evident in each iteration never fails to impress. But does the Lexus ES 300h uphold the legacy of Lexus technology while delivering the smooth comfort and effortless driving experience for which the brand is renowned?

For our review, we toured all around Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, taking in the gorgeous historic towns of Bath, Penryn and Falmouth.

The Lexus ES is propelled by a dynamic 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine, artfully combined with a self-charging electric motor and a compact yet efficient battery system. This synergy is seamlessly managed by an advanced E-CVT gearbox, delivering a total power output of 218 bhp. While not engineered for adrenaline-fuelled country road adventures, this setup provides a refined and commanding presence on the motorway, effortlessly achieving a top speed of 112 mph. The ES gracefully accelerates from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in a leisurely 8.9 seconds, emphasising its focus on smooth and serene motoring rather than blistering speed. 

Stated MPG is between 51.3 to 53.2 which is amazing. This is not a plugin folks, no need to worry about recharging, it does all that for you and gives you the mileage and the tax breaks an electric motor provides without the hassle.

The ES is sleek and long at just under 5 metres, gleaming in silver with radiating alloys and an L-latticed front grille that appears to be crushed by huge lateral gravitational forces. The sharp LED lights and vents add to this flowing, melted appearance. It catches the eye. A low roof and minimalist rear spoiler complete this somewhat racy saloon exterior.

Optional digital wing mirrors offer a futuristic touch that reduces drag and sends live images into the door.  Audi offers them on some models too, but I’m not a big fan of them so far. Perhaps that will change as I get used to them more.

Overall it is a pleasing luxury saloon, both refined and discreet.

The interior is plush with soft leather seats and any plastic trim is well disguised and solid, as are the control buttons placed low beneath the 12.3-inch infotainment screen which protrudes upwards for good visibility, sharing space with an attractive analogue clock.

The expansive interior space boasts eight-way adjustable seats that cocoon occupants in grey-toned luxury. Advanced cruise control features, including full lane control, elevate the driving experience to new heights of convenience. Recharge your devices effortlessly with wireless charging in the centre console, while the full-screen reversing camera and 360-degree overhead view ensure seamless manoeuvrability. 

Who doesn't love a heads-up display? Lexus provides all the info you could possibly need right before your eyes. Speed, speed limit, map directions, infotainment etc, all perfectly styled to be clearly and quickly visible. Though if they could polarise the light so that it can be seen while wearing shades, that would be a plus. 

The 12.3-inch screen is crisp and clear with CarPlay and Android Auto, which both connect proficiently and stay connected. However, you can only move between CarPlay and the Lexus controls by pressing a physical button below the screen, which takes some finding.

Drive modes are located on a gorgeous chunky rotational button behind the wheel, though I would prefer it on the steering.

The alloys have sound-absorbing rims, so in full electric mode you can mow down pedestrians who will never hear you coming, but it makes for a lovely quiet cabin.

In the Lexus ES, convenience reigns supreme with the centre dash compartment ingeniously designed to open both ways, ensuring effortless access to drinks, keys, and additional phones for both driver and passenger alike.

While the hands-free boot lid adds a touch of amusement to your experience, it may occasionally falter in recognising a sweeping foot gesture, particularly if you're clad in black shoes and trousers. And the boot at 454 litres stands out over other hybrids. Think four large family suitcases plus a kitchen sink.

And, when you're stepping out of the ES, those front seats have got your back—or should I say, your posture? They slide back all smooth and suave, letting you make that exit in style, with a straight back and a dash of coolness. 

Performance is smooth, efficient and extremely comfortable. Long distances are a breeze.

Whilst this may not be the car for drivers, driving is extremely pleasurable. It is smooth and immensely relaxing. The car takes all the stress out of driving, so you arrive fresher than you left. 

I love driving, but this is like having a driving assistant who just takes care of the boring bits and leaves you to have fun with the rest. Bring on the tech for touring.

On our tour to Somerset, Cornwall and Devon, we averaged around 47 mpg and drove like we just did not care. With that MPG, we didn't. Stick it in Sport mode to overtake, then back to Eco for cruising in level 2 autonomous driving.

Once you've set cruise control and lane assist in the ES, it practically takes the wheel for you. Just hit that lane assist button once for a helpful nudge, and again for full-on middle-lane steering. It's like having your own personal chauffeur—it steers, accelerates, and brakes, all while maintaining the speed you've chosen. And get this—it'll even bring you to a complete stop and then start up again, all on its lonesome. Now, that's what I call luxury.

Just a heads up—the ES isn't entirely hands-free. If you let go of the steering wheel, it'll give you a gentle reminder to get a grip, so to speak.

And at the risk of repeating myself, in the rain it is spectacular. We passed through torrential downpours, where the road was invisible. The Lexus ES just drove on through. Masterful. 

Acceleration in the ES is pretty snappy. Thanks to that electric motor, you get this instant burst of power that makes it feel quicker than the specs might suggest. But here's the thing—the engine tends to hang on to those revs a tad longer than you'd like, almost begging you to switch up a gear.

Front-wheel drive does well in the wet, but is not quite as engaging in the corners, with a little roll, nothing you notice unless you're in boy racer mode in your head. A small price to pay for the long length of the car, incorporating immense space in the front and rear seats plus such a humongous boot. 

Do you know what seals the deal for me with Lexus? It's their reliability. These cars are built to last, no question about it. In a world where we're all thinking more about sustainability, high mileage, and getting the most bang for our buck, the ES really stands out. It's a top choice for those who want a ride that'll go the distance—and then some.

In addition, Lexus's subtle emphasis on autonomous driving hints at a future where innovation takes a monumental leap forward, poised to revolutionise the market without the pomp and circumstance of some competitors.

With safety features like emergency braking and a comprehensive list of standard inclusions, the Lexus ES delivers exceptional value without compromise. Service the Lexus ES with a main Lexus dealer each year and the three-year warranty gets extended to ten years or 100K miles. That's a pretty confident warranty.

It is big, it is clever, whilst not powerful, it delivers luxury comfort, oodles of technology and unbeatable value with amazing miles-per-gallon efficiency.  The Lexus ES is like a blast from the past in the best way possible. A luxury touring sedan reminiscent of the fabulous seventies that prioritised space and plush seats.  A nostalgic saloon embodying the essence of the grand touring era but packed with all the latest bells and whistles of modern tech. 

A well-balanced car aimed at commuters, tourers and anyone who wants the drive to be more about the journey and the experience than pushing pedals and straining to watch the road. Especially in the rain, the car does that all for you. It draws the curse out of commuting. 

Lexus ES 300h price from £43,595 including VAT.

https://www.lexus.co.uk/new-cars/es