For discerning drivers seeking luxury without breaking the bank, the realm of premium sedans under $50,000 offers a sweet spot of sophistication and value. Among these compelling options, the Lexus ES stands out as a beacon of comfort and refined elegance. Sharing its foundation with the Toyota Camry, the ES elevates the everyday driving experience, prioritizing passenger well-being and a serene cabin environment over overtly sporty dynamics. While some competitors in this class emphasize athletic handling, often at the expense of ride quality, the Lexus ES carves its own path, delivering a plush and tranquil journey that insulates occupants from the harsh realities of rough roads and noisy streets.
Beneath the hood, the Lexus ES offers a range of powertrains to suit diverse preferences. Front-wheel-drive gas models boast a seamlessly smooth V6 engine, generating a robust 302 horsepower. This ample power ensures confident acceleration and effortless merging onto highways, regardless of traffic conditions. For those seeking enhanced all-weather capability, an all-wheel-drive variant is available, powered by a 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Furthermore, the ES embraces fuel efficiency with its hybrid models. These eco-conscious versions combine a four-cylinder engine with electric motors, boosting total output to 215 horsepower while achieving impressive fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg – making them ideal companions for daily commutes and urban explorations.
Stepping inside the Lexus ES reveals a sanctuary of meticulously crafted luxury. The cabin is swathed in high-quality materials, creating an ambiance that is both visually appealing and tactilely satisfying. Even lower trims impress with their refined imitation leather upholstery, while higher-tier models indulge occupants with genuine leather in a selection of inviting color palettes. Passenger space is generous in both the front and rear compartments, ensuring comfortable accommodation for all occupants. Trunk space is also competitive within the midsize luxury sedan segment, providing ample room for luggage and cargo. Modern technology seamlessly integrates into the ES experience, headlined by a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come standard, along with a highly responsive voice recognition system, keeping drivers connected and entertained on the go.
Lexus places paramount importance on safety, and the ES is a testament to this commitment. While the 2024 model year saw a slight dip in crash-test ratings due to evolving testing methodologies by 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 Lexus 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 drivers with an array of tools to enhance safety and peace of mind on every journey.
When considering rivals in the luxury sedan landscape under $50k, the Acura TLX emerges as a close competitor. However, the TLX leans towards a sportier driving character, whereas the ES firmly prioritizes luxury and comfort. The Genesis G70 and Genesis G80, with their rear-wheel-drive configurations and opulent interiors, offer alternatives that bracket the ES in terms of size and driving dynamics. Notably, while many midsize luxury sedans incorporate mild-hybrid technology, the Lexus ES distinguishes itself as the sole model in its segment offering a full hybrid powertrain, excluding all-electric options like the Genesis Electrified G80. For those prioritizing a serene and luxurious driving experience within the $50,000 budget, the Lexus ES presents a compelling and refined choice.
