Same, Same, But Less Efficient
Last year I had the privilege of driving the 2022 Lexus ES 300h for a week and raved about how quiet and comfortable it was. Best of all, though, was its 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain, which returned around 40mpg after a week of driving. That said, it was pretty much a triple threat to a smooth ride, plush interior and long time between gas station visits.
This week I’m driving the gas-only counterpart of the ES 300h – the 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport. It is equipped with the same equipment as last year’s test car, but slightly less fuel-efficient.
The 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is more powerful and less efficient
The engine under the hood is the main difference between the 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport and the ES 300h I drove last year. This gas-only ES 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, which is the same V6 found in most Toyota products. Can’t fault them considering it’s a reliable, smooth engine that offers plenty of boost to get onto the freeway and overtake cars at speed.
The ES 300h is powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain that produces 215 hp. It’s not a problem as it’s assisted by the electric motor, but it’s definitely a bit slower.
According to Lexus, the petrol-only variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds, compared to the hybrid’s 8.1-second time. These numbers might not mean much to luxury car buyers, but they make a big difference nonetheless.
The most important number when comparing the two trim levels is of course the gas mileage. The ES 300h can get up to 43mpg in the city and 44mpg on the highway, resulting in a typical average of around 40mpg in our real-world testing.
On the other hand, the EPA estimates that the gas-powered ES can get up to 22 mpg city and 31 mpg on the highway. So far we’ve averaged around 23mpg in the real world. That’s a pretty big difference.
2023 Lexus ES 300h versus ES 300: Which should you choose?
If you value fuel efficiency, the choice is clear. Both trim levels are around $49,000, so I’d recommend the Lexus ES 300h if you need the most miles per gallon. However, if you like adding some performance to your luxurious experience, the ES 350 won’t let you down. Its gas pedal is responsive and the engine note sounds great as you floor the skinny pedal. Additionally, the extra power works well with the F Sport package.
What is included in the F Sport package?
As mentioned above, both of my Lexus ES test cars were fitted with the F Sport package. This package includes features like a stiffer suspension, bolstered front seats and styling cues from the F Sport. Some of those cues include a leather steering wheel, F Sport aluminum pedals, a sportier front fascia and a rear spoiler.
Overall it’s a great package if you’re looking for some sportiness from your Lexus ES, but it’s a little unnecessary in my opinion. The seats are supportive and the suspension feels a bit firmer, but considering the car is designed for comfort, I’d rather not have them.
But if you want to feel sporty and luxurious at the same time, the 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport could be for you. Just don’t expect stellar fuel efficiency numbers.