How fast is Lexus ES 300?
The Lexus ES 300 is not a current model in Lexus’s lineup. It named several early-to-mid-1990s sedans, and acceleration figures varied by year and market. Today’s ES lineup in most regions includes the ES 350 (gasoline) and the ES 300h (hybrid), with performance that reflects the era of the powertrain rather than a single, uniform figure across all ES 300s.
Historical performance of the ES 300 across generations
The following summarizes commonly reported acceleration and top-speed ranges for the ES 300 during its production years. Values are approximate and can vary by year, trim, condition, and transmission.
- ES 300 (early generation, roughly 1992–1996): 0–60 mph typically in the neighborhood of 9–10 seconds; top speed around 130 mph (electronically limited in many markets).
- ES 300 (late 1990s to 2001): 0–60 mph often reported around 9–9.5 seconds; top speed generally near 130 mph.
- ES 300 (2002–2003, transitional period before the ES 330/350 naming): 0–60 mph roughly 8.5–9.2 seconds; top speed commonly cited around 130 mph.
Across these generations, the ES 300 typically emphasized refinement and ride comfort over blistering straight-line speed. The engines were smooth, but performance figures lagged behind more modern or sport-oriented sedans in the same era.
The current Lexus ES lineup and what it means for speed
In markets where the ES name continues, Lexus now offers the ES 350 (gasoline) and the ES 300h (hybrid). Acceleration and top speed depend on the model year and drivetrain, but the figures below reflect typical ranges reported for recent configurations. Exact times can vary with tires, equipment, and testing conditions.
- ES 350 (current, gasoline): 0–60 mph generally in the mid to upper 6-second range; top speed commonly limited around 130 mph.
- ES 300h (current, hybrid): 0–60 mph typically in the high 7- to low 8-second range; top speed often around 112–125 mph depending on year and market.
Some markets may offer variations such as the ES 250 in certain regions, which typically deliver acceleration in the 8–9 second range, with top speeds similar to or slightly below the ES 350 depending on the specific powertrain and regulatory tuning. Always check the exact figures for your year and market, as Lexus and local regulations can yield slightly different numbers.
How to interpret these numbers for your needs
- If you want brisk daily acceleration for highway merging and overtakes, the ES 350 generally delivers stronger straight-line speed than the hybrid.
- If fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation are priorities, the ES 300h offers competitive performance with notably better efficiency, though it isn’t designed as a sport sedan.
- If you are shopping used, verify the specific model year, drivetrain, and condition, as wear, tires, and maintenance can influence observed performance numbers.
Summary
There is no current Lexus ES 300 model in regular production. Historically, the ES 300 spanned several generations with modest acceleration—roughly 9–10 seconds to 60 mph in the early years, and a bit quicker in later variants. Today’s ES lineup centers on the ES 350 and ES 300h, offering roughly mid-6-second 0–60 times for the gasoline version and high-7- to low-8-second times for the hybrid, with top speeds typically around 130 mph for the ES 350 and somewhat lower for the hybrid. For precise figures, share the exact model year and market and I’ll pull the specific numbers.
If you need a precise comparison for a specific year or region, tell me the year and market, and I’ll provide exact, sourced performance figures for that ES 300-era generation or the current ES models.
