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What is the difference between a Lexus ES 350 and a Lexus ES 250?

The Lexus ES is a popular midsize luxury sedan offered in two main variants: the ES 350 and the ES 250. While these two models share a similar overall design and many features, there are some key differences between them that buyers should be aware of.


Engine and Performance


The primary difference between the ES 350 and ES 250 lies in their engine configurations. The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides the ES 350 with robust acceleration and responsive performance. In contrast, the ES 250 is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the ES 250 engine is more fuel-efficient, it delivers less overall power and acceleration compared to the V6 in the ES 350.


Fuel Economy


Due to its smaller and more efficient 4-cylinder engine, the Lexus ES 250 achieves better fuel economy ratings than the ES 350. The ES 250 is rated at 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, while the ES 350 is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. This makes the ES 250 the more fuel-efficient option for buyers prioritizing better gas mileage.


Pricing and Trim Levels


The Lexus ES 250 is generally the more affordable model, with a starting MSRP around $40,000. The ES 350, on the other hand, has a starting MSRP around $45,000. Both models offer a range of trim levels and optional packages, but the ES 250 tends to have a lower base price point.


Key Takeaways



  • The ES 350 has a more powerful V6 engine, while the ES 250 has a more fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine

  • The ES 350 delivers stronger acceleration and performance, while the ES 250 achieves better fuel economy

  • The ES 250 has a lower starting MSRP, making it the more affordable option between the two models


In summary, the choice between the Lexus ES 350 and ES 250 will depend on a buyer's priorities, whether that's performance, fuel efficiency, or budget. Both models offer a high-quality, luxurious driving experience, but with distinct engine and pricing differences to consider.

Is the Lexus ES 250 a reliable car?


The ES 250's high level of comfort, roomy interior and low starting price for a midsize luxury sedan will attract many shoppers, all bolstered by Lexus' reputation for reliability. However, its underpowered and loud four-cylinder engine, paired with dull driving dynamics, might send you elsewhere.



How many miles per gallon does a Lexus ES250 get?


25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway
The EPA's fuel economy estimates for the ES250 are 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.



What is the difference between Lexus ES 250 and ES 350?


Each model is powered by a different engine: ES 250: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 horsepower, 184 lb-ft of torque) ES 350: 3.5-liter V6 engine (302 hp, 267 lb-ft)



What is the difference between Lexus 350 and 250?


The biggest difference is that the 250 has a 2.5-liter displacement and makes about 200 horsepower (good for a 7 second 0-60 time), and the 350 has a 3.5-liter displacement and makes 300ish (good for a 5 second 0-60 time).



What is the life expectancy of a Lexus IS 250 engine?


With proper maintenance and care, the IS 250 can easily surpass the 300,000-mile mark, a testament to the brand's commitment to engineering excellence. Compared to other luxury vehicles in its class, the Lexus IS 250 stands out as a leader in longevity.



Is Lexus ES 350 reliable?


How Reliable Is the Lexus ES 350? RepairPal gives the Lexus ES 350 a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking it fourth out of 31 luxury midsize cars. This model's annual repair and maintenance costs are usually around $470—that's $270 lower compared to other luxury midsize cars.



Is the Lexus ES 250 fast?


Because this engine is capable of a 0-60 MPH1 acceleration time in just 8.6 seconds, few things will be able to prevent you from getting off to a fast start when the light turns green. And when you find yourself on a straightaway, the 131 MPH2 top track speed can handedly outperform much of the competition.



What is the difference between 250 and 350?


The F-250 delivers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 20,000 pounds and a maximum fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing capacity of 22,800 pounds. For even heavier-duty tasks, the F-350 can provide up to a 21,200-pound towing capacity and an impressive fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing maximum of 35,750 pounds.



Is a Lexus ES 350 like a Camry?


The ES 350 has a slight advantage over the Camry, with 302 hp and 267 lb. -ft of torque. The 3.5 liter V-6 engine also comes standard on the ES 350. To match the ES 350's performance and engine, you'll need to opt for a higher trim of the Toyota Camry.



Is Lexus IS 350 faster than 250?


However, there is one primary difference between these two and it can be summed up in one word: power. The overall power of the IS 350 with its 8-speed transmission and 0-60 in 5.7 seconds sets it apart from its little brother, the IS 250.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.