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Lexus ES: Hybrid vs Gas Specs

You might be surprised with what you learn when you look at the ES 300h and the ES 350.

By Jeffrey Smith - January 8, 2015

This article applies to the Lexus ES (2005-2013).

In today's economy, we are all looking for ways to pinch a penny and stretch our budget as far as possible. Purchasing a hybrid is one way we can get the most from our hard earned dollars. Fewer visits to the pump leaves more money in our wallets. However, this comes with a cost as the initial price for a hybrid is usually considerably more than a gasoline-only counterpart. Whether or not this cost is worth it is something that you'll have to decide, and this article attempts to make that decision easier. Read on to weigh in on the differences between the Lexus ES Hybrid and gasoline only (ES) models.

Component Breakdown

ES300 Hybrid Price, MPG, Lifespan, Performance and Pros/Cons

The Lexus ES Hybrid is a beautiful machine that bridges the gap between the luxury car and hybrid car offerings. The Lexus ES Hybrid starts at just under $40,000, which is only a few big bills over its standard ES gasoline-only engine counterpart. The hybrid is rated at 40 mpg city, 39 highway. Drive testing revealed approximately 33 mpg with one outfit and 40.8 with another. Compared to the Toyota Camry Hybrid at 31 mpg, this makes the jump to the luxury of the ES a no-brainer. There isn't much data on the life expectancy of these cars just yet; however, it is estimated that the batteries will last at least 250,000 miles before thinking of replacing them. The motors last even longer. If you hold on to your ESh for that long, expect to spend a couple thousand on battery replacements.

The performance aspect of the 300h is commendable if you are comparing it to other luxury hybrids. You can't make a fair comparison on performance against the ES350. The hybrid sports a CVT unlike its V6 brother. The power difference between the two models is large; however, the sport mode gives the hybrid quite a bit of spunk, which makes it more fun to drive than any other standard hybrid. It comes off the line with 156hp at 5,700rpm. The ride is quiet and the suspension is decent, but this is no sporty ride even in sport mode, and the steering leaves a lot to be desired. Lexus isn't likely too concerned as the luxury hybrid purchaser likely isn't taking the ES300h to the LeMans track.

Figure 1. Lexus ES Hybrid corners the luxury market.

ES350 Price, MPG, Lifespan, Performance and Pros/Cons

The Lexus ES350 is the epitome of a sporty backbone inside a luxurious body. Lexus has married a great looking exterior with a comfortable and high end interior, along with an old school meaty power plant. All this, in a package that starts at approximately $37,000, is an affordable blend of power and prestige. This luxury four door sedan offers an average 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway - not anything to shout about, especially with its hybrid cousin that nearly doubles that. One of the nice features that bridges the gap between a sedan and a sportster is the fact that this V6 power plant boasts a 6 speed shiftable automatic transmission. The lifespan of the 350 ranks high with the best of the best. Lexus offers a bumper-to-bumper 4 years/50,000 miles, a powertrain 6 years/70,000 miles and a corrosion 6 years/unlimited miles warranty.

Figure 2. Lexus ES350. Luxury and power in one sweet package.

Maintenance

Maintenance schedules with Lexus are second to none. The high quality workmanship of these vehicles provides a nearly worry-free ownership experience. The maintenance schedule for both the 300 hybrid and the 350 are virtually identical. Oil changes for each are suggested at every 10,000 miles in normal conditions. The only difference between the two will be seen at the major milestones ; the 350 will need the engine coolant changed at 100,000 miles while the hybrid at 150,000 miles.

Figure 3. Lexus offers trouble-free, worry-free ownership.

Common Questions

How Long Can the Batteries Go Before Needing to Be Changed in the Hybrid?

They should last well over 100,000 miles and likely up to 250,000 miles before you'd even consider changing them.

Is the Hybrid Worth the Money Over the Gas Powered Version?

If power is your bag, there is no comparison: the 350 is your ride. If you want great gas mileage and like the environmental appeal, the hybrid nearly doubles the mpg of its 350 brother. At 19 miles per gallon better for $2,700 more, the return on investment should hit around the 3rd year of ownership at the latest under normal, average driving conditions.

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