You’ll spend nearly $41,00 to buy the least expensive 2020 Lexus ES, but at least it feels worth the money. We rate the lineup at 7 out of 10 for its good standard and optional equipment and the automaker’s sterling warranty and dealer experience, though the kludgy control interface forces us to retract a point.
Base ES 350s include synthetic leather on the seats, power adjustment up front, a power moonroof, an 8.0-inch screen, Apple CarPlay compatibility, a trio of USB ports, and streaming Bluetooth. Add in the collision-avoidance tech and we’re happy with its standard features.
Hybrids cost about $1,800 more and come with about the same equipment, though they don’t offer the F Sport package. For about $4,500 on top of the ES 350, it adds adaptive dampers, 19-inch wheels, and a host of styling changes.
We think the $42,785 ES 300h hybrid is the best bet, with features like those in the base ES 300 and the super fuel-economy advantage of its hybrid system.
Options are grouped into packages and some are available as stand-alone items. Those worth noting include a 12.3-inch screen that includes navigation, a heated steering wheel, adaptive headlights, and Mark Levinson audio. An ES with that gear would be our choice, though upsized wheels and a panoramic roof are also available.
We don’t like the ES’ control interface, which features a laptop-like touchpad that is a challenge to use at a stoplight, let alone while on the go. Additionally, don’t look for Android Auto compatibility, though Amazon Alexa stands by ready to play Jeopardy!
Every Lexus comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty—which extends to 6 years and 72,000 miles for the powertrain.
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