2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport First Look — Can an Economical Sedan Actually Be Sporty?
Lexus sent us a prototype of the first-ever ES 300h F Sport, which debuts as part of the 2022 model year. Here are our first impressions!
The ES sedan isn’t the cheapest, most expensive, or fastest Lexus. It sits squarely in the middle of, well everything. A fancier, prettier Camry, the ES sedan is roomy and comfortable. And with a hybrid drivetrain, you can sit five comfortably while enjoying excellent fuel economy. But what happens when you take a luxurious fuel sipper and make it look and handle like a sports sedan? You get the 2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport.
Lexus was kind enough to send us over a 2022 ES 300h F Sport prototype for a first-look review. Overall, not much has changed for the ES model as a whole. But from a visual and handling perspective, the 300h dances with its F Sport brethren. Blacked-out wheels and grilles? Check. Sport heated and ventilated seats? Yup. F Sport steering wheel? Check again. And a sport-tuned suspension. Of course.
And while sports-car and front-wheel-drive don’t always go together, the ES 300h provides a relatively engaging driving experience while keeping you away from the gas station. So… miles per gallon AND smiles per gallon? Anyway, it’s not the car for me, personally, I’d much rather tour around in an IS or LS. But as a combination of simplicity, economy, luxury, and sportiness, it’s a surprisingly fun package.
What do YOU think about the 2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport? Is this a silly idea or great idea? And what’s your pick for the perfect daily driver? Let us know —
