DavidZ

I'm amazed at how exhilarating this car is to drive. Lexus really hit one out of the park when they designed this one.

It's indescribable, but I'll try. The balance between performance and luxury/comfort is perfect. There's no hesitation. The car goes where you want, when you want, effortlessly. It has a solid feel, but doesn't require much effort to drive. It handles extremely well with grace and poise. And it's quiet and serene, which sets the stage nicely to enjoy the awesome ML audio system. Who could ask for more?

The hardest part is curbing my enthusiasm.

jaygee1

I know right?! I keep finding excuses to run errands...we need milk, I’ll be right back....sure I can run to the bank for you dear...stamps, I’m going to the post office!

I live in sport mode, wish it would default to that from the start but it’s not that big a deal to switch it. It shifts so smoothly that it almost feels like an electric car.

LeeSoFL

Yes, it was hard to tell how you really feel.

TechNut

I know what you mean and you I think you stated it very well. Our hybrid version is a bit different than your model, and at 250 miles we are still in the honeymoon phase, but I feel much the same way. My wife and I really enjoyed our 2015 ESh, but this 2019 just takes it to another level. The smooth delivery of power and as you put it, the poised ride is really terrific. I am constantly amazed that a 4 cylinder with electric motor can deliver this much power. You cannot even tell when it transitions between electric and internal combustion. Yes, you can hear some engine noise when you really push it, but that kind of spirited driving just isn’t my style. Anyway, I agree with your impressions of the 2019 ES. Enjoy your ride, I certainly am!

DavidZ

There's a sport mode?! You mean it gets even better? Cool. I've got to try that one out!

DavidZ

The indescribable part is the synergy of how all of these great features/design elements come together to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

mikemu30

I only drive in SPORT mode. It's a bit slow in NORMAL.

ccousens

What is the difference between Sport and Normal. Is it only throttle response or is there anything else that changes?

mikemu30

Trans shift points.

DavidZ

Page 203 of the owners manual says that, in addition to the SPORT S mode, there's a SPORT S+ mode that "Helps to ensure steering performance and driving stability by simultaneously controlling the steering and suspension in addition to the transmission and engine."

User 41924

Sport mode adjusts shift points (holds the gears a little longer), throttle mapping (feels more responsive), and steering (makes it a little heavier).

I think Sport+ is on the FSport only, but I may be mistaken. Mine is a UL, so it wouldn't have it either way. It it may only be available in other markets (Canada).

jaygee1

I could be wrong but I believe the Sport + is only available in F Sport units with Adaptive Variable Suspensions? Maybe someone with a non AVS F Sport can chime in and clarify?

Mine came with AVS so I have Sport + and it makes a big difference in steering and handling response even compared to sport mode.

JDR76

You are correct. Sport S+ is only on F Sports that have AVS.

DavidZ

You'd think the manual would make that clear.

lexdanbury

I feel like the acceleration from stop could be smoother.
I can feel the transmission shifts in a weird and not smooth way. Have you experienced that?