What is the difference between Lexus ES250 and ES 350?
The ES250 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering about 203–208 horsepower, while the ES350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 delivering around 302 horsepower. The ES250 typically offers better fuel economy and a lower starting price, whereas the ES350 provides stronger acceleration and more robust performance. Availability and exact specs vary by market, and many regions also offer a hybrid ES300h as an alternative.
Both models share Lexus’s refined interior, comfortable ride, and hallmark build quality, but they diverge in powertrain choices that affect daily drive, running costs, and value. When shopping, buyers should consider how they plan to use the car—city commuting versus highway cruising—and check local specifications to confirm which engine is offered in their region and year.
Powertrains and Performance
Engine options and resulting performance set the two apart.
- ES250: 2.5-liter inline-four engine, about 203–208 horsepower, torque roughly 184–178 lb-ft (varies by model year and market); 8-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive available in some regions.
- ES350: 3.5-liter V6 engine (2GR-FKS), about 302 horsepower, torque around 260–267 lb-ft; 8-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive standard with all-wheel drive available in some markets.
- Performance difference: The ES350 generally rockets away from a stop more quickly and handles highway overtaking with less effort, while the ES250 emphasizes smoother everyday driving and stronger efficiency.
Regional variations: In certain countries, the ES250 may not be offered, or the lineup may include alternative engines or trims. The ES300h hybrid is another option in many markets, sometimes replacing or complementing the gasoline-only models.
Regional variations
Market-specific configurations mean the exact engine, power figures, and available drivetrains can differ. Always verify the local specs with a dealer for your country or region.
Fuel Economy, Running Costs, and Ownership
Costs over ownership life and real-world efficiency are key buying considerations.
- ES250: Typically delivers better fuel economy due to the lighter four-cylinder setup; expected combined mpg ranges generally higher than the ES350, varying with drivetrain and year.
- ES350: Typically lower fuel economy because of the larger V6, but offers stronger acceleration and confident highway performance; maintenance and insurance costs may be higher due to the more potent powertrain.
- Shared factors: Both models benefit from Lexus’s build quality, advanced safety features, and a similar interior; depreciation and resale value depend on market, trim, mileage, and overall condition.
Bottom line: If fuel savings and a lower upfront price are priorities, the ES250 is typically the more attractive choice. If you value brisk acceleration and more power for highways, the ES350 stands out.
What to Look for When Shopping
Key considerations to guide a purchase decision and avoid surprises.
- Verify the exact engine and drivetrain listed in the window sticker for your region and model year, since some markets offer different engines or omit the ES250 entirely.
- Compare real-world fuel economy estimates and consider your daily driving patterns; evaluate whether the extra power of the ES350 justifies the potential increase in fuel use and upfront cost.
- Assess warranty coverage, maintenance plans, and potential resale value, which can vary with engine choice and market popularity.
Conclusion: The best pick depends on how you balance power, efficiency, and budget in your local market. Always check the latest local specifications and test-drive both variants when possible.
Summary
The Lexus ES250 and ES350 differ mainly in their powertrains: the ES250 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder for efficiency and ease, while the ES350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 for stronger performance. Availability and exact specifications vary by year and region, and many markets also offer the ES300h hybrid as an alternative. Prospective buyers should weigh daily driving needs, fuel costs, and local pricing to decide which ES model best fits their priorities.
What is the difference between ES 250 and ES 350?
The main differences between the Lexus ES 250 and ES 350 are their engines and drivetrain: the ES 250 features a standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, while the ES 350 is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) model with a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine. The ES 350 offers more horsepower and acceleration, while the ES 250 provides better traction in adverse weather conditions due to its standard AWD. Other features, such as the interior, exterior styling, and technology, are very similar across both models.
You can watch this video to see the 2022 Lexus ES 250 AWD, including its features and performance: 1momardrivesYouTube · Mar 10, 2022
| Feature | Lexus ES 250 | Lexus ES 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 302 hp |
| Drivetrain | Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Performance | Adequate for daily driving; better traction in poor weather | Stronger acceleration and performance |
| Fuel Efficiency | Slightly better fuel economy | Lower fuel economy compared to the ES 250 |
| Features | Standard features are largely the same as the ES 350, including AWD, safety systems, and infotainment | Standard features are largely the same as the ES 250, including AWD, safety systems, and infotainment |
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Is the ES 250 considered a luxury car?
Specs at a Glance
The 2025 Lexus ES stands out as one of the most satisfying midsize luxury sedans on the market today. With an exceptional driving experience and remarkable comfort, the new ES is further enhanced by its striking design.
What are common problems with the ES 250?
Most Common Lexus ES250 Problems
There are reports of premature automatic transmission failures. Head gasket may fail if engine overheats/coolan... The head gasket will fail if the cooling system is not serviced with the recommended frequency or if the car is...
Is 250 and ES 350 which is better?
When comparing the Lexus IS 250's and the Lexus ES 350's specifications and ratings, The Lexus ES 350 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, interior volume and base engine power. The Lexus IS 250 and Lexus ES 350 have the same fuel efficiency.
