2024 Lexus ES Hybrid is still a recommendable mid-sizer

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Last fully redesigned in April 2018, the Lexus ES Hybrid is expected to undergo a full model change in the near future. However, for now, it has received a regular update for MY2024 in the United States. Recently, I visited Los Angeles, where I had a chance to check out the 2024 Lexus ES Hybrid (2024 Lexus ES 300h) in person and see if it’s still a recommendable model in the mid-size luxury sedan segment:

Design

The 2024 Lexus ES Hybrid exudes an air of elegance and classiness, thanks to its sleek, coupe-like silhouette. Despite its nearly six-year-old design, with only a minor facelift in 2021, features like the upswept triple-beam headlamps and sharp DRLs still make for a striking first impression. However, aspects like the spindle grille and the simple tail lamps that wrap around the rear quarter panel feel a bit dated at this point.

The Lexus ES has received just one exterior change for the 2024 model year. The 18-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels that are standard on the Ultra Luxury grade and available on the Luxury grade now have a Vapor Chrome finish instead of a high-gloss finish.

Lexus models are renowned for their build quality, and I can tell you that the 2024 ES Hybrid is one of them. During my inspection of the car at the LA Auto Show, I found the panel gaps of this model to be tightly set. The paint quality also appeared immaculate. I think the hybrid sedan looks particularly ravishing in the Matador Red Mica color.

Interior

The interior of the 2024 Lexus ES Hybrid is simplistic, but I do think it’s likable. Particularly, I like the wraparound look of the dashboard in the upper part where its trim strip connects with that of the door panels and the curves in the lower section. In a time when screens are dominating everything in the interior, I think the analog clock located beside the central display is a classy touch that’s worth commending.

I find the asymmetric outer-end AC vents odd, and the ESC and drive modes knobs positioned like horns on the instrument binnacle even more so. Physical controls are in abundance and cover all the core functions of the car. I appreciate Lexus not using the finicky touch buttons in the steering wheel.

Lexus has equipped the 2024 ES with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and cloud navigation. From my experience, I can say that this infotainment system has sharp graphics and is snappy to use. I think the digital instrument cluster is too basic by 2024 standards. The quality of the switchgear in the cabin felt great. Lexus has used soft-touch plastics in the dashboard and the upper part of the dashboard, but hard plastic in the lower area of the door panels.

Lexus has designed and engineered the 2024 Lexus ES Hybrid keeping in mind the requirements of American customers. Thus, I, as a six-foot-tall person, had no issues with the ingress or egress in the front. In the 14-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a power cushion extender, I felt that I had good headroom. The lumbar support also felt good, which made me think I’d be pretty comfortable in this seat during long journeys.

When I used the three-spoke steering wheel’s power tilt-and-telescopic column, I felt that the adjustments were limited. The all-around visibility was good, and I didn’t miss the digital IRVM feature from the full-size Lexus LS.

When I opened the center console storage box to see its space management and understand what kind of things I could keep inside it, I found that it was deep and wide enough to keep a mirrorless or even a DSLR camera bag and it included two USB-C ports and a power outlet.

In the back, I had to mind my head for ingress and egress because of the sloping roofline. I had lots of legroom and impressive knee room, too, both while the driver’s seat was still set in my most comfortable position. I’d rate the rear seat 4 out of 5 for under-thigh support. I think the shoulder room was okay, but the headroom was pretty tight for a person of my height.

The 2024 ES Hybrid has a spacious trunk with 13.9 cu. ft. of cargo volume, which is neither impressive nor disappointing. However, it’s not possible to increase that space, as the rear seat is not foldable. The hybrid sedan does have a spare tire.

Driving impressions

Mechanically, the Lexus ES Hybrid has remained unchanged with the MY2024 update. Thus, it’s safe to assume that it drives and feels the same as the earlier model year. The 215 hp powertrain returns an impressive combined fuel economy of 44 MPG (EPA-est.). As before, an AWD drivetrain layout option is not available. Reviews from the previous model year suggest that the ES Hybrid is meant to be nothing more than a spacious and luxurious car built for a comfortable ride.

The powertrain of the ES Hybrid is tuned towards a relaxed driving experience. Acceleration is somewhat leisurely, and engine droning becomes noticeable when rushed. While the car maintains composure on winding roads, the steering feedback tends to be somewhat numb. On a positive note, Lexus has implemented ample sound-deadening measures to minimize road and wind noise, preserving a peaceful cabin atmosphere. Additionally, others who have driven the car would also tell you that the ride quality is notably excellent.

Price

The 2024 Lexus ES 300h’s prices start at USD 44,590 (incl. USD 1,150 DPH fee) and go up to USD 53,480 (incl. USD 1,150 DPH fee).

TopElectricSUV says

The 2024 Lexus ES 300h is a little outdated in its segment, and competitors do better in performance and driving dynamics, too. However, for customers who mainly care about ride quality and fuel efficiency, it’s still a recommendable mid-size luxury sedan.

2024 Lexus ES 300h FAQs

An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.