For drivers seeking the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the sedan hybrid market offers compelling options. Among them, the Lexus ES stands out as a leader, consistently praised for its serene driving experience and exceptional hybrid technology. While other sedans in its class might emphasize sporty handling, the Lexus ES prioritizes passenger well-being and a tranquil ride, making it arguably one of the Best Sedan Hybrids available today.
The Lexus ES distinguishes itself with a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, a hallmark of the Lexus brand. Unlike some competitors that trade comfort for a firmer, sportier feel, the ES is engineered for composure. Its sophisticated suspension adeptly absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road, preventing jarring motions from reaching the cabin. Complementing this smooth ride is Lexus’s renowned sound-deadening technology. The cabin is meticulously insulated, effectively shielding passengers from unwanted exterior noise and creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.
Powering the Lexus ES hybrid is a responsive and efficient four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. This hybrid powertrain generates a combined output of 215 horsepower, providing ample power for confident acceleration and seamless merging into traffic. However, the real strength of the hybrid system lies in its exceptional fuel economy. Boasting an impressive EPA-estimated 44 mpg combined, the ES hybrid excels as a fuel-sipping commuter and a smart choice for environmentally conscious drivers who want to minimize trips to the gas station without sacrificing luxury or performance.
Stepping inside the Lexus ES reveals a cabin crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Even in lower trim levels, the interior exudes luxury with appealing simulated leather upholstery. Higher trims elevate the experience further with genuine leather in a range of sophisticated color combinations. Both front and rear passengers will appreciate the generous space, ensuring comfortable journeys for all occupants. The trunk space is also competitive within the midsize luxury sedan segment, offering practical cargo capacity for everyday needs and longer trips. Furthermore, the ES features a modern infotainment system centered around a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. The system also includes a highly effective voice recognition system, adding another layer of convenience and ease of use.
Safety is paramount, and the Lexus ES is engineered with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. While the 2024 model year faced revised crash testing challenges from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2025 Lexus ES maintained its top five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Every Lexus ES trim comes standard with essential safety features, including 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. These features work in concert to provide a reassuring sense of security and driver assistance in various driving situations.
When considering competitors, the Acura TLX is often mentioned, but it leans towards a sportier driving dynamic. The Genesis G70 and G80 offer opulent interiors and rear-wheel-drive handling, but they aren’t available as full hybrids. While some midsize luxury sedans incorporate mild-hybrid technology, the Lexus ES stands out as the only full hybrid within its segment, excluding the all-electric Genesis Electrified G80. This unique position as a full hybrid in the luxury midsize sedan class further solidifies the Lexus ES as a top contender and arguably the best sedan hybrid for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, luxurious comfort, and a refined driving experience.
