The ES is built on what Lexus refers to as the K (G-AK) platform, which is a rebranded version of the Toyota New Generation Architecture that underpins most new Toyotas. The ES is built on the longer wheelbase than the related Camry.

The ES is fronted by the latest iteration of the Lexus “Spindle” grille, with the rest of the car resembling a cross between the previous-generation ES and the previous LS super- luxury sedan. The cabin is fronted by a dashboard featuring a small gauge pod containing a  speedometer surrounded by a tachometer and flanked on one side by a fuel readout and the other side by a temperature indicator. The top centre of the dash is dominated by a large info screen, which is controlled but an infuriating touch-pad that is too distracting to be used in a car. The cabin style on the luxury themed models, is both elegant and visually calming. The cabin design of the F Sport trims is carefully assembled but is not overtly luxurious compared with the sumptuous cabins of the non-sporting models. While the front seating position seems tighter than it is in the related Camry, there is abundant legroom up front and in the rear, and the seats are very comfortable.

ES Hybrid

The ES is available is a mind-bending number of variants including 2.5L hybrid and V6 engines combined with front-wheel drive a normally-aspirated 2.5L four that sends power to all four wheels. On the hybrid, the Luxury trim is needed to add Semi-Aniline leather, adaptive headlamps, power rear window blind and a few other features, but is expensive. The
Ultra luxury trim includes a Mark Levinson audio system, a heat-up display system, a 360 degree camera system and a power open and close trunk, but is overpriced. Compared with the Premium, the Sport adds larger wheels and a “sporty” body kit at a reasonable price. The Sport F2 adds a Mark Levinson audio system, a 360 degree audio system, sports seats and adaptive lighting but lacks content for the price.

ES All-wheel drive

The ES all-wheel drive is powered by a normally-aspirated 2.5L four cylinder engine. The base Premium trim is nicely equipped but its seats are clad in vinyl. Moving up to the Ultra Premium model adds a Mark-Levinson audio system, semi-aniline processed leather, a 360 degree camera system, a 10 inch head up display unit and a number of minor items, but the price asked is far in excess of the value of the content. Shifting from the Premium to the F Sport Design adds a sport appearance kit, a spoiler and 19 inch wheels for a reasonable price. The F Sport 2 adds Sports seats, a power driver’s seat cushion extender, adaptive suspension and a number of other comfort and convenience item, but, as is typical for Lexus, light on content for the money. The Premium trim is nicely equipped but lacks leather seating. The Ultra Luxury trim adds Semi-Aniline processed leather and a wealth of additional features but is overpriced. The F Sport Design adds a “sporty” look at a reasonable price. The F Sport 2 trim upgrade is overpriced and the Black Line Special Edition is a lot of money for no real content.

Predicted reliability is above average. Servicing costs are low for the luxury segment.