For those in the market for Less Expensive Luxury Cars that don’t compromise on comfort and sophistication, the 2025 Lexus ES emerges as a compelling option. Often considered the more refined cousin to the Toyota Camry, the Lexus ES prioritizes passenger well-being and a serene driving experience, setting it apart from competitors who emphasize sporty handling at the expense of ride quality. Unlike many sedans in its class that lean towards a firmer, sport-tuned feel, the ES distinguishes itself with an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride, a hallmark of the Lexus brand.
The Lexus ES excels in providing a tranquil cabin environment. Its meticulously engineered suspension system effectively minimizes disruptions from uneven road surfaces, ensuring a consistently smooth and composed ride. Staying true to Lexus’s reputation for quiet interiors, the ES incorporates substantial sound-deadening materials, effectively isolating passengers from external noise and creating a peaceful sanctuary within the vehicle. This focus on noise reduction is a key element that elevates the ES above many in the “less expensive luxury cars” category.
Under the hood, the front-wheel-drive gas models of the ES boast a remarkably smooth V6 engine producing 302 horsepower. This powertrain delivers ample power for confident merging and effortless cruising, regardless of traffic conditions. For those seeking all-wheel drive, the ES offers a 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Hybrid versions combine a four-cylinder engine with electric motors, boosting the total output to 215 horsepower. The hybrid models stand out as exceptionally fuel-efficient commuter vehicles, achieving an impressive EPA-estimated 44 mpg, making them not only luxurious but also economical choices within the realm of less expensive luxury cars.
The interior of the Lexus ES is a testament to thoughtful design and premium materials. Even lower trim levels feature attractive synthetic leather, while higher trims are adorned with genuine leather in a range of elegant color schemes. Both front and rear passengers will appreciate the generous space, and the trunk capacity is competitive within the midsize luxury sedan segment. The ES also incorporates a modern infotainment system, centered around a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, along with a highly responsive voice recognition system, enhancing the overall tech-savvy experience expected in luxury cars.
Safety is paramount in the Lexus ES. While the 2024 model faced revised crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2025 Lexus ES has once again earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s top five-star safety rating. Every ES trim level comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, providing peace of mind and reinforcing its position as a safe and secure option among less expensive luxury cars.
When considering competitors, the Acura TLX stands out as a close rival, though it leans slightly more towards sporty dynamics than outright luxury. The Genesis G70 and G80, with their rear-wheel-drive configurations and opulent interiors, also compete in the luxury sedan space, albeit with a different driving feel. While many midsize luxury sedans offer mild-hybrid technology, the Lexus ES remains unique as the only full-hybrid in its segment, excluding the all-electric Genesis Electrified G80. This hybrid offering further solidifies the ES’s appeal for buyers seeking fuel efficiency alongside luxury in the less expensive luxury cars market.
In conclusion, the 2025 Lexus ES presents a compelling blend of luxury, comfort, and value. For those seeking less expensive luxury cars that prioritize a smooth ride, a quiet cabin, and advanced technology, the Lexus ES is a standout choice that deserves serious consideration. Its focus on passenger comfort, combined with its fuel-efficient hybrid options and comprehensive safety features, makes it an intelligent and rewarding choice in the competitive luxury sedan market.
