2019 Lexus ES 300h FIRST DRIVE REVIEW: The better Lexus ES - with a catch! (3 of 3)

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

I'm 4 years late! But this still my car friend.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Hybrid all the way. 44mpg is outstanding for a big sedan like this.

[@lawlzownage1844]

Realistic mileage is high 30s.

[@instasingingvids3529]

LAWLZOWNAGE still pretty good

[@Usernotknown21]

Until you need a repair. You have to sell your ass to pay for a hybrid repair

[@Nightbird.]

@@Usernotknown21 I think that applies to all repairs done on luxury cars.

[@Usernotknown21]

@@Nightbird. no. Not like hybrids

[@edkutzler5258]

I have debated been debating the Hybrid vs V6 as well as the Avalon Limited hybrid vs the ES models for a while. Since 90% of my driving is in heavy traffic city commuting, 43 mph the hybrid makes a huge amount of sense. Adapted suspension doesn’t really work when you are moving an average of 25 mph. Even if the overall driving dynamics aren’t quite as good in the Hybrid, for the ES line this is realistically the better choice. If you go with a gas engine then their are plenty of other competitive options that may be a better choice. One thing not mentioned is the poor infotainment system. The screen looks great but the finger pad control is really a challenge in traffic. The F Sport looks nice but really more of a cosmetic change than a real performance improvement.

[@skunkbucket9408]

I'd definitely take the hybrid. The ES isn't aimed at the boy-racer set (Lexus has the IS for that) so the softening of the handling is more in keeping with its target audience.

[@emmgeevideo]

We bought the ES 300h instead of the ES 350 - because it is much more attractive and should require a fill-up twice a week vs once a week. My wife drives it and felt that the slightly more mild-mannered power wasn’t a big deal. If it was my car I would have gotten the ES-350 because the extra oomph is more fun.

[@kennyrmrz]

I love it when you have fun facts about the car and especially when you do segments where you have the actual engineers show us what innovations they have done (ie the wheel segment), Thank you and keep it up!!!!

[@AK-rx6hv]

Those noise reducing wheels though.. gotta love technology

[@usaexplore410]

Hybrid. I think its the quietest of them all. And how can you argue with ev mode, for my commute i drive 10 miles city 10 miles highway so i can drive on pure electric in the city and it will recharge on the highway

[@Sevenfeet0]

First, you had some lovely filming days riding around what looks like the horse farms of northwest Williamson County. You're right, a CVT isn't going to have the same driving dynamics of the regular transmission and the extra weight doesn't help. But I think my mother will still enjoy it as her next car.

[@douglasdonatien7044]

I currently own a ES330 and still love it, I like the new es but I’m obsessed with the new LS500 and I’ll take the big boi 🤟🏾

[@LacoteCohen]

Douglas Donatien just do it!

[@jorgealvarez1558]

Same here

[@grovdogg19]

Which year ES you got? I have a 2008. Great car!

[@jorgealvarez1558]

Grover Williams I have a 2008 Silver ES. 141k miles on it. Just regular maintenance and still runs good. I just purchased a 2018 Lexus RX350L and drives amazing.

[@DutchClawz]

The LS is perfection, too bad its $180k here

[@alpappalardi7044]

I am in the minority loving a GS F sport. It’s rear wheel drive generic is such a different feel This Es is nice looking alright.. very similar in looks to the GSF sport. The clear difference is over 35 G sold to just 7500 GS. But not for me.

[@gregsullivan7408]

I think you neglected to mention that the hybrid has 0.4" less rear head room than the gasoline models. However, it's only 0.1" less than the previous model hybrid. (the gasoline has 0.3" more) Here in Australia, we're *only* getting the hybrid this time, so I think I'd choose the hybrid. :D Seriously, as a chauffeur, there's a good chance I'll pick this for my next car. The fact that the battery no longer robs boot space is a game changer.

[@dukesim6088]

Liked this 3 part review very much. It after seeing many videos on the ES, this is the first really digging into the details like the difference of the body construction to the Avalon or the special rim construction. Very interesting!

[@Curryolla]

Since my family owns a Lexus RX 450h and an Infiniti Q50 Hybrid, I'd get the hybrid. I'd also prefer a PHEV and wish the ES had AWD. That said, I'm still waiting on Lexus to make a full EV. That would be perfect!

[@jorgealvarez1558]

Akshay Mahesh I tried this car and the head area turned me down. It was very narrow. Like I was almost hitting the top and I’m only 5’7.

[@thatswiss1385]

A full EV is not the lexus concept. Lexus want reliable nickle-metal bateries and a non turbo 6 cylinder engine which you don't need to Recharge and runns 200'000 miles without problems. This is the big advance of Lexus.

[@CarsofGlasgow]

I love hybrids too! I have a video on the ES300h Takumi edition if you want to check it out?

[@DragosDomnara]

Jorge Alvarez Yes. We have the previous generation ES hybrid and Lexus invited us to go check out the new model. The top head area is much smaller and feels awkward. Still a very nice car, just takes getting used too. I’m 6 feet and sitting at the back my head nearly was at the top. I have a video of their LC if someone is skeptical that I don’t have a Lexus

[@CarsofGlasgow]

@@DragosDomnara aww really

[@philipclock]

Got a 2017 ES 350, traded the mileage for up front savings that goes towards extended warranties, etc. that add value to the car. Either are terrific! Waiting for the fuel cell version down the road. Guess I'd stick with the V6 vs hybrid, really like the smooth engine.

[@amir__papi]

I would go with the V6 model I think it's overall a more complete car to drive at least in terms of transmition

[@godfatherNYC]

I have this in the 2017 and it's amazing. This newer one is absolutely beautiful. The only thing I can think of is that people who can afford these don't care about mpg/conservation? I care! I was going to get a Prius, but we went to test drive a CT200h. The CT pretty much sucked and the ride quality was rough. The salesman smartly suggested the ES, since it also got the same 40 mpg as the CT. It was sooooooo nice. SOLD.

[@jerryb.7021]

I can afford it and i do care about mileage. Fewer trips to the gas station and better for the environment. And the side benefit of saving $500 a year in gas? Why not?!

[@evanames3400]

You had 2 Lexus executives fly halfway across the planet and didn’t let them say a single word? They were just props to hold the wheels lmao

[@Novice2Expert]

This guy should have many more subs....the details...every time I watch a series, I feel like I can sell the car to anyone...lol

[@LacoteCohen]

Elton Elzee he should definitely have much more

[@brcarlos]

Average Joe doesn't like to think or engineering. Motoman doesn't have many subs but I'm sure he has good quality subs.

[@boboutelama5748]

He's okay I guess. But this kind of comment I see it everytime on nearly every channel. Even the poor quality one.

[@mazdapremacy97]

Wow a huge difference with the wheels that will make sharp holes much quieter

[@gwgrote5]

How is the acceleration from stopped and pulling out onto a busy road? I test drove the Prius, and Honda hybrid and hated the pause when I put down the peddle. Would the F-Sport provide better acceleration with a hybrid, or is the F just a badging gimmick? Thanks

[@kwoklam9724]

Hybrid will be my first choice!

[@easternpa2]

Great review as always; I really like your delivery approach. I'm taking a closer look at the 2018 and 2019 Lexus ES 300h now that they're supported by OpenPilot. Thank you for yet another detailed (but practical) review. Looks like a very comfortable ride and a luxurious place to be even for hours at a time.

[@mgmcd1]

I bought this car primarily based on your review, up from an Avalon hybrid. Thanks for that. Love the car, and the stereo (ML). Mine is black on black.

[@MotoManTV]

Congrats!

[@leezhang8996]

I would choose hybrid, because I live in Beijing now, the traffic is such a mess(used to live in LA, Beijing is much worse), and there's no 3.5 V6 in China!! If I was in the U.S., I would go with ES350 F Sport.

[@LionelGeek]

Thanks for this review. I watch a lot of car reviewers on KZbin, and you're my favorite. Nice balance of technical and real-world driving. And how you got the lead ES engineer and designer to play along in your video I'll never know. :) To answer your question... I have my eye on buying the F-Sport version of this car when the time comes. Even though you think the hybrid gets the nod here, I'm willing to bet the driving dynamics will be the determining factor for me. While I'd love to drive a Porsche or a peppy BMW or Mercedes, I'm a father whose part of a family of 4. Reliability and comfort rule the day. That said, being fun to drive is an important part of the equation for this dad.

[@gleej8120]

Great review...but now I am more confused than ever...which to buy...the 6 cyl or the hybrid? I guess when I go to test drive this weekend, I will try both.

[@dreihll]

We're getting the 2019 Avalon, here in Hawaii, on July 5th. How do I know this? I've been counting the days and reading and watching everything about it for the last 6 months and had my Salesman, (who sold me my 2016 4Runner Limited) get me on the VIP 'first look and drive'" list at the launch gala. After watching your abjectly thorough and concise reviews and comparisons on all the trims of both the Avalon and ES, you've convinced me that the ES350 F-Sport is the one to get. When Xenia Onatopp says 'Mr Bond, it appears we share the same interests...Motoring and Baccarat'" you realize,at that moment, that your not a car enthusiast, you're a friggin MOTORIST and you want to race a leggy vixen on the twisting outskirts of Monaco. So until I see Daniel Craig dodging bunnies in Kentucky, in an Aston Martin Hybrid, I'm not going to sell out that silky, baritone exhaust note, audio boosted thru the Levinsons, for that kick ass, creme de leche, leather interior....Thanks for the great insight and keep up the great work! That tire test killed me! And almost killed the Lexus engineers! Lol

[@mss627]

I can't get past that ugly grille.

[@davidabbett7011]

Which one? Is the 44 MPG worth the reduction in driving "feel"?

[@rightlanehog3151]

Yes the hybrid is worth it. You will save enough money on gas to finance a Toyota 86 when you need more 'feel' ;)

[@mgmcd1]

I drive an Avalon hybrid now, so would get the hybrid ES. I have just gotten used to going to the gas station less often than I did with a V6 Toyota.

[@jvolstad]

Wonder if they will come out with a plug-in version? I'm a bit of a tree hugger. I would choose the hybrid over the V6 any day of the week. BTW, Lexus, make the sunroof an option and not mandatory. How many people actually use a sunroof? I hope you are going to test drive the new Honda Insight.

[@godfatherNYC]

I totally agree with you -except about the sunroof. A sunroof is an absolute must-have for me when I purchase a new car. :)

[@DragosDomnara]

jvolstad i love sunroofs. Especially when you drive out with no light pollution, stargazing without having to get out. Must have

[@Driv200mph]

Never wanted a hybrid in my life. But with my fast car in the garage and my needs as a daily highway warrior....my recent search of “Comfortable” hybrids lands on the Lexus ES300H! Quite impressive. But I want the upgraded Luxury trim....and that puts me in Fsport territory. Ahhhh! Hybrid interest is only for the gas mileage cost in my 22,000/year job. Hybrid it is.

[@derit]

I think you've changed my mind, the hybrid isn't so bad.

[@DzanTa]

Anybody want to give me advice on buying this car versus a Tesla Model 3 Performance? Thanks

[@michaelduong3852]

i'd go with the hybrid drive train no doubt. i already have the rx350 which has the 3.5l V6 which is really great to drive, ultra smooth, quiet and has plenty of go in the upper rpm, however doing 10.9l per 100km mix driving is not what i need right now. fuel in australia is rising and i need myself a fuel efficient car. drove the rx450h and fell in love with it, but they hold value so well that i cannot afford it.

[@KirkKreifels]

I can't wait to get to know and sell the new ES! I'm sure this hybrid will sell aggressively in Europe.

[@downshiftpedal]

LEXUriouS Which Part of Europe do you think this ES going to sell out that’s without you even knowing the pricing. I think if the price is anything close to the price of the Germans then it will be seating at dealers just like the Lexus IS300h in Germany at least

[@KirkKreifels]

bj banny you're right I don't know the price. I do know Lexus Europe sells 65+% of their volume in hybrids. That's why I know it will sell.

[@LacoteCohen]

I'm patiently waiting for the new GS

[@KirkKreifels]

Wade Higgins you'll be waiting a long time. GS has 1 maybe 2 more years of the current design. Barring a miracle this is the last GS

[@HBK3344]

Wade Higgins no more GS .. just Is and Es and LS

[@paulrodger3115]

I hear the hp is low. What year model year would you suggest used Hybrid? Toronto Canada

[@AlexBAlixir98]

From 14:00 had me in stitches lol. 🤣Great review of the ES

[@jupitersydney3555]

Hybrid with gas prices going through the roof … way quieter too… please test the latest version with handling upgrades, 23 onwards

[@316spikey]

I enjoyed your episode! Was fun ☺️. Subscribed 👍🏻

[@bbee8829]

First, thank you again for the live stream the other day. Second, Is it American consumer snobbery that we aren't readily embracing Hybrids in favor of larger, higher horsepower engines?

[@tommyho6437]

When did they changed to the design rim so it a bit quieter ?

[@fan2lexus]

We only have the hybrid version available in Belgium, with the F-Sport package as premium feature. Because of our tax system that is too restrictive for the V6 version !

[@rightlanehog3151]

fan2lexus, You will be able to cover your entire beer budget with the savings in petrol that comes with the hybrid.

[@ahron-m8437]

So what is the “hybrid acoustic silencer” ? (4:26)

[@KirkKreifels]

In my Rx 450h review I felt the same way with the usable torque and day to day practicality and fuel economy!

[@nkgudih]

Have the RX450H too, true the torque is usable and readily available! People here in South Africa stll like the ever poisonous diesel and it's revyyyyyyyy torque but the RX it them for lunch easy. Especially those with bmw 20.d with 400nm.Hybrid is the future, EV is the trend, and diesel in small car is dead!

[@KirkKreifels]

Harold Nkgudi our Lexus hybrids in America don't sell that well, but that's changing. They are about the same price now and the UX hybrid will be awd unlike the petrol version.

[@nkgudih]

Probably, because my understanding is that in the US fuel is much cheaper than many countries including South Africa and think so in EU. In the past here, cars where expensive to buy(CAPEX), but fuel was cheap in comparison to other markets. Now cars are expensive, maintanancerocket high, and fuel is at top high level. Our economic BUNDITS blame the rise on TAX in fuel. And there where Hybrid can add to hypermilling guys like me

[@peterharvey153]

MotoMan says that the ES300h has more practical bottom end torque than the ES350 V6, yet superior fuel economy too. However, MotoMan also says that the ES300h hybrid does not handle as well as the ES350 V6. So it's a mixture of pros and cons, and it will all depend on what best suits the buyer and driver.

[@KirkKreifels]

Peter Harvey the average es buyer will never ever come close to pushing the car to it's limits and couldn't tell you the difference in handling between the two. What they can tell is how much they spend at the pump.

[@mgmcd1]

Well, you sold me. Moving up from my 2013 Avalon Hybrid Limited. I need the quite, and the stereo. 🤓 Also, I’m old, and I miss the real Buicks of the 60s and 70s. A Buick Wildcat, that is! 😁

[@MrKenrwi]

Avalon limited V6 more for the money!! Or is it more for less money?

[@planbparadise2046]

We only have one choice here in Europe, The Hybrid. However, we do have the F-sport version too...

[@kubanskiloewe]

even in my old RX450h with 2,2tons and V6 i get 29mpg in city and countryroad driving !!!

[@MrMustangrick]

This is design is starting to grow on me, but I want RWD like my 2013 GS 350. Also 0 to 60 in 6.5 is not going to cut it, my GS is a 5.4 second car. Lexus DO NOT cancel the GS !!!!!!!

[@ihatehandles3]

MrMustangrick i dont think they will more chance they make it a more up scale 4 door coupe sporty sedan

[@MrMustangrick]

Albn, Im good with that….they already have the GS F with a V8 470 HP. May have to go with that Lex if the V6 goes away... Lexus forever !

[@samsonokoro5036]

I think it'll do a lot better than 6.5 seconds, the Camry and Avalon all do below 6 secs to 60 and they have basically the same engines tuned differently for the ES with more sound deadening and much more. There will be AWD version coming soon, that will do so much better as well in terms of driving dynamics.

[@MrMustangrick]

Samson, I hope so, 6.5 doesn't cut it for over 300HP, 8 speed and somewhat light weight ! They have NOT announced AWD in this new model

[@rhar1044]

I agree. I had the same car and my GS was fast as hell and I got a speeding ticket in it.

[@peterzhang2973]

You missed the main difference between these self charging Hybrids and plug in Hybrids and EVs. These cars do not need charging, they charge themselves when you drive so there are definitely most convenient to most people. Hence why Toyota rightly is sticky by this technology.

[@badimpulses17]

Rather buy the ES made in Japan than in the US.

[@ContraNovae]

Interesting.... Why do you advise that? Are they better specc'ed?

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

Too bad the us doesn't have the rear reclining and heated seat.

[@eleganz]

Where were you driving? that area looks so nice to drive and live in.

[@tonyhull4978]

I have already chosen the hybrid. I came from a Jaguar XJ Portfolio Diesel.

[@joecashara2102]

Ok undecided on the 2019 Avalon hybrid limited edition or the 2019 es350 hybrid and now I'm leaning back toward the lexus after your review. Unfortunately money will play in my decision and so I'm back to the Avalon. Thank you for making me second guess myself again. Maybe I should wait till after the 2019 has been out for 9 months and then go back into the car buying market

[@1ce2berg]

Joe Cashara Wait a couple months for the Lexus. Well worth it

[@dujuanlove6935]

Lexus needs to make a ES 300h F Sport

[@LacoteCohen]

Dujuan Love it's coming as he said

[@dujuanlove6935]

Wade Higgins I hope it come by the end of this year

[@omarcarnegie346]

Yes they need to

[@DragosDomnara]

Dujuan Love yes. They need to ASAP. I wish to renew my previous generation model

[@jpmackin]

When we, your adoring fans, get to watch the video review of the f sport versions- that’s when we will pass judgement.

[@samsonokoro5036]

I will only get the gas version, i'm not interested one bit in a hybrid with that CVT. Until they sort out the transmission in hybrids it's a no go area for me.

[@SS-ug1qy]

In Europe they sell F sport hybrid ES idk why they not selling it in US 🙁

[@mss627]

This car is a cruiser, not a sports car so I would definitely go with the hybrid.

[@romellbernardo3073]

Stunning interior

[@devongee1776]

Why did the chicken cross the road? To get a -peck- at that new Lexus

[@stephenmccurdy6619]

I just wish they put this interior color is the v6...... HEARTBREAKING

[@StarryTemplar]

what's the horse power?

[@kubanskiloewe]

in germany only the Hybrid is available !!! But unfortunately its a 4cyl. and not anymore the much better V6/Hybrid which is so much better on AUtobahn and with less stress and more quiet from the engine. but glad to hear the Hybrid is 100% from japan

[@venelinkeremedchiev9643]

Hybrid! I dont care for 0-60 time so no need to pay for extra gas for me, not to mention that gas prices here in Europe are between 2 and 3 times higher than in the USA so another pro on the Hybrid side

[@rambinophantom505]

He said you know I love me some wood wtf

[@Nightbird.]

Grow the fuck up and stop the homophobic shit already.

[@pgiinc]

Great Review I own a 2016 ES300h love it. I will buy a 2019 ES300h with every option, Drove the LS500h did not like the power delivery. I love you Reviews thanks kinda confirmed what I hoped about this car

[@DragosDomnara]

We have a 2016 as well. I didn’t get to see the LS, I wonder how it is...

[@KnightIndustries572]

I hope the ES Hybrid is as good as you say, In Australia they will only bring the Hybrid version (which is a first) and no F Sport :-(. yes, we too are obsessed with (IMO) overrated mid sized SUV's

[@NHDICKSON]

All wheel drive?

[@Curryolla]

I wish, but sadly, no. I hear rumors that maybe in the future.

[@corpnupe85]

Neither, I traded the 2014 ES 350. The ride was very boring and I hated the front wheel drive.

[@gwot]

good move because the ES is clearly not your type of car. I love it for its intended purpose, and it does very well for what it's designed to do.

[@troygreen9321]

I really like this car im the hybrid form and have never ownd one before but did drive a fusion hybrid for a week and feel in love with the concept. I'd like to have the Avalon but still Toyota cuts that car short on combination that you want. The ES300 cost much more but they offer better cosmetic choices that and options. I once had a 2006 Avalon Limited and it was a great car but they never really seemed to advance it any futher.

[@ORCChannel]

Even animals want to check new Lexus 😄

[@LoongAqua]

About how long before the NMH battery would need to be replaced?

[@brian.z6592]

I am picking the Hybrid version, cos there is no V6 version in China due to higher tax on larger engine.

[@LacoteCohen]

KFC crossing the road

[@A12Diary]

People are complaining about the price of the new Lexus. Do Americans agree with this?

[@jerryb.7021]

Im getting as high as 51mpg during my 25 mile drive to work, which includes the awful 405 freeway in los angeles. What really brings down mileage is any upward slope and having to come to a complete stop, then revving up again.

[@googoo-gjoob]

of course they ride differently. it isnt that the hybrid weighs 150lbs more..... its that the gas only version has *87 more hp!!!* _a 40% increase in power is significant_

[@robertholic9993]

great video

[@CarsofGlasgow]

Another great video, I found the ES very luxurious! I have a takumi ES300h on my channel :D

[@jaylove5555]

Swinging that hammer almost got you a taste of that eastern medicine.

[@TillmyMessiahComes]

Lol! That Cock and hens crossed the road in front of the Lexus. I missed my chickens. I have to retire there in Florida maybe if not for those hurricanes.

[@Furbaby87]

Hybrid ALL the way!

[@Jrbettis]

Wild Kingdom. Kids Googling Wild Kingdom.

[@gaylongraham077]

ECVT = no belts = instant torque.

[@Superfastjellyfish669]

Lexus is super conservative they might have created the segment but I think everyone else is kinda out competing​ them on everything but their claim to fame is reliability

[@LacoteCohen]

GiovanniLACA17XD agreed

[@SayMyName383]

Hahaha! Good one! 3:56

[@okinawanah3463]

i have the ES Hybrid, it's a Japanese Cadillac. Everyone in the ghetto worship Lexus and Cadillac. They keep loyal customers that start off with the IS then end with the LS or LX.

[@Edward-ns2qv]

50% + 25% is not 75% F Sport cars. You are taking 25% of 50% so its 12% of all total ESs will be F sport

[@eleeter]

Wasn't that a rooster and part of his harem? Could be wrong.

[@fgsddsgf3058]

Why did the chicken cross the road 😂

[@IamJay]

What if a dog suddenly crossed the road and you accidentally hit it, what happen to your front grill?

[@kawaisit3086]

V6 hybrid

[@opptest1]

awesome!

[@michaelgrant5258]

You can find the ES 350 models made in Japan, except their is maybe 50 cars across the whole US for sale. I'd go for the V6, since it'll cost far less mechanically in the long run compared to the hybrid battery. Realistically you'd problem see 37- 39 mpg on the highway with the ES 350 since the epa mpg is a worst case scenario.

[@bwilliam4023]

this or model 3

[@gwot]

This. The model 3 is being rush built now, they even added a temporary out door "tent" to squeeze out more production, many reviews of the model 3 saying a lot of the fit and finish is poor (evidence of poor assembly). I'd wait for all the pre-order are done building, and plus another year, before I even consider the model 3.

[@plumwolf280]

why dont lexus put their 2.0turbo on it?

[@gwot]

I'm personally glad they didn't. Naturally aspirated engines are more reliable than turbo ones, less pressure, less parts. I already have an expensive hybrid system to worry about, I don't want a turbo. I tend to keep my cars forever, so an adequate power NA engine is a plus for me. Although I would trust a Lexus turbo but I trust a theoretically more reliable engine more.

[@plumwolf280]

we can choose from 3.5, Hybrid and 2.0turbo, 2.0turbo cost less tax in some country like china.

[@gwot]

ah, if you're talking about the tax bracket, then that's a different story. In North America it doesn't matter, so I never considered that.

[@bbee8829]

Hybrids are the pushup bras of the engineering world: it looks the same as the "bigger" parts for less weight but when the chips are down, and shirts are off, it's just not the same.

[@Magnus-pm7ic]

You sir, sound like a dumbass. It gets 40 + mpg like it is designed for .... It not claiming to be a sports car or anything else.