Is the Lexus ES sporty?
Performance and powertrains
- ES 350: 3.5-liter V6 engine producing about 302 horsepower, with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is brisk for a luxury sedan, but the emphasis is on smooth, confident highway passing rather than outright speed.
- ES 300h: Hybrid system combining a 2.5-liter inline-4 and electric motors for about 215 horsepower total; exceptionally efficient and quiet, with acceleration tuned for refinement rather than sportiness.
- ES 250 (regional availability): In some markets, a base 2.5-liter setup exists, but in the United States the lineup centers on the ES 350 and ES 300h, with the latter prioritizing efficiency over performance.
Sporty cues and handling
- F SPORT package: Adds sport-oriented styling cues (such as darker trim and a more aggressive front fascia) and a firmer, sport-tuned suspension on certain trims. It also brings larger wheels and interior accents that heighten the sense of sportiness without turning the car into a performance machine.
- Handling feel: The ES uses front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive, delivering predictable, comfortable handling. Steering is precise but not heavy, and the ride emphasizes a quiet, cushioned feel rather than razor-sharp cornering.
- Driving modes: Typically includes Normal, Eco, and Sport, with some versions offering a more aggressive Sport or Sport+ mapping for throttle response and transmission feel, primarily to enhance everyday responsiveness rather than track-ready performance.
How the ES stacks up against sport-focused sedans
- Against the IS: The Lexus IS is the more driver-focused model with sharper handling, a broader range of engine choices (including more powerful options), and a sportier chassis setup. The ES prioritizes cabin serenity and comfort, with sport touches that are more cosmetic than mechanical.
- Against rivals: In the segment, BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class offer more aggressive driving dynamics and more aggressive engine options. The ES remains in the premium comfort category, where ride quality, quietness, and refinement are the primary selling points.
Summary
Are Lexus ES fast?
What is the 0-60 Time of the Lexus ES 350? Very aerodynamic and finely tuned, the Lexus ES 350 can go from 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds. This will show the beautiful sedan as something more than an average car. The Lexus ES 350 compares well amongst other sporty 4-door vehicles.
What is the most sporty Lexus?
The most sporty Lexus is generally considered to be the Lexus LFA due to its extreme performance, followed closely by the LC 500 for its combination of luxury and performance, and the RC F for its sharp handling. For a sporty sedan, the IS 500 F Sport is the top option.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Lexus LFA: 58sMotormouthYouTube · Oct 31, 2025
Overall most sporty
- Lexus LFA: Widely regarded as the ultimate Lexus sports car, it's a limited-production supercar that prioritized performance above all else.
- LC 500: A flagship luxury sports coupe with a powerful V8 engine, it offers a stunning design and a thrilling driving experience, with a convertible version also available.
You can watch this video to see the Lexus LC 500 and learn more about its features: 59sJalopy JeffYouTube · Nov 19, 2025
Sporty coupe and sedan
- RC F: This is a more track-focused coupe that offers sharper handling than other models, though it sacrifices some ride comfort for its performance.
- IS 500 F Sport: This sedan is the sportiest option in the IS lineup, delivering excellent acceleration and a strong V8 engine in a four-door package.
What is the Lexus ES known for?
luxury sedan
The Lexus ES is a mid-size luxury sedan marketed since 1989 by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, across multiple generations, each offering V6 engines and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout.
Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?
No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
- Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine.
- Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry.
- Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning.
