Is the Lexus ES 250 underpowered?
The Lexus ES 250 isn’t a sport sedan, but it delivers adequate daily acceleration with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an 8-speed automatic. It won’t satisfy performance-minded buyers, yet for most commuting and highway cruising it’s comfortable and refined.
Powertrain basics and numbers
The ES 250 is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four, paired with a conventional automatic transmission. In most markets the engine delivers about 203 horsepower and roughly 184 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available in a few regions. That setup is more than enough for smooth highway merging and quiet city trips, but it isn’t a performance machine and the curb weight sits in the mid-3,500s to mid-3,700-pound range, dampening brisk acceleration.
Performance claims in practice
In everyday driving, the ES 250 offers refined throttle response and a calm, linear surge of power. The 0-60 mph time generally lands in the upper 7-second range to just under 8 seconds, depending on equipment and conditions. The torque curve is broad enough to feel reasonable around town, but you won’t experience a sudden power rush like some turbocharged rivals or the stronger V6 in the ES 350.
Real-world impressions: refinement vs. pace
Car reviewers frequently cite the ES 250’s strengths as a quiet cabin, smooth ride and seamless refinement. Throttle mapping is geared toward comfort, with Eco mode toning things down further. For highway overtakes or steep grades, the engine may require advance planning and a bit more throttle. If you want stronger low-end torque or sportier acceleration, the ES 350 or a turbocharged rival often delivers a noticeably quicker dash to speed.
How it stacks up against the ES lineup and rivals
To determine whether the ES 250 feels underpowered, it helps to compare it with the rest of the ES family and with segment rivals. Below are key contrasts that matter to most buyers.
Before listing, here’s a quick guide to what this list covers: horsepower, torque, transmission, drivetrain, and performance impressions across trims and rivals.
- ES 350: a significantly stronger option with a 3.5-liter V6 delivering about 302 horsepower, offering faster acceleration and more confident overtaking power.
- Regional variants and AWD options: some markets offer all-wheel drive on the ES 250, which can affect acceleration feel and traction but typically carries a similar horsepower figure.
- Key rivals (TLX, 3 Series, A4, etc.): many offer turbocharged four- or six-cylinder engines that produce higher horsepower and quicker 0-60 times, trading some ride comfort or interior quietness for sportier performance.
In practical terms, the ES 250 sits in the comfort-focused segment of midsize luxury sedans. It delivers a refined, serene driving experience and adequate everyday power, but it isn’t designed to be a sport sedan. If you crave brisk acceleration, the ES 350 or a premium rival will typically feel more responsive.
What to consider if you want more power
If quicker acceleration is a priority, consider these paths and their tradeoffs:
- Choose the ES 350 for a V6 upgrade with notably stronger horsepower and faster highway response.
- Explore the ES 300h hybrid if you want stronger low-end torque from electric assist and excellent fuel economy, with a still-sufficient overall pace for daily driving.
- Compare with turbocharged rivals (where available) such as the TLX or 3 Series, which often deliver faster straight-line performance but may come with higher running costs or stiffer rides.
Ultimately, the decision depends on priorities: ride comfort, efficiency, and steady highway pace versus sprint-like acceleration and sportier handling. The ES 250 excels in comfort and refinement, while more power is readily available in higher-spec alternatives within the Lexus lineup or from rivals.
Summary
The Lexus ES 250 provides adequate power for everyday driving with a refined engine and smooth transmission, making it a strong choice for comfort-focused buyers. It isn’t a performance-oriented model, so those seeking brisk acceleration will prefer the ES 350 or a sportier rival. For most owners, the ES 250 strikes a balanced blend of quiet ride, efficiency and sufficient everyday pace.
