Lexus ES 350h hybrid sedan assessed for pros
A review from Autocar India examines the Lexus ES 350h hybrid sedan, highlighting its fuel efficiency, comfort, and value against rivals, while noting
The Lexus ES 350h hybrid sedan offers a fuel-efficient powertrain and a comfortable ride at a competitive price, according to a feature from Autocar India. The report also notes the car lacks some luxury features found in rivals and has a less comfortable rear seat setup.
Fuel-efficient and refined powertrain
A key advantage of the ES 350h is its hybrid system's range. The source states that on a full tank of petrol, drivers can expect a range of around 800 kilometres. In city conditions, the car can run on electric power alone for trips like commuting to work, using no fuel. This silent electric operation contributes to what the report calls excellent refinement, adding a layer of luxury.
The hybrid setup pairs a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. Combined, this system develops 247hp and sends power through an e-CVT gearbox.
Impressive ride comfort and pricing
Lexus has tuned the ES 350h for comfort. The review notes a soft suspension setup combined with 19-inch wheels and tall tyre sidewalls delivers a comfortable ride at low speeds. It remains composed over speed bumps and potholes and feels confident at highway speeds without the floating sensation sometimes associated with sedans.
The car's pricing is presented as a strong point. The report provides the following ex-showroom prices for the Indian market:
| Trim Level | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Exquisite | Rs 66.10 lakh |
| Luxury | Rs 71.80 lakh |
For the starting Exquisite trim at Rs 66.10 lakh, the ES 350h is described as extremely well priced. The top Luxury trim, at Rs 71.80 lakh, includes a decent set of features. Autocar India states this makes the Lexus considerably less expensive than similarly sized rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series LWB, positioning it as a strong choice for buyers not focused solely on brand prestige.
Feature omissions compared to rivals
However, the review identifies areas where the ES 350h falls short of its German competitors. It misses out on some luxury features. For instance, while the Mercedes E-Class offers a passenger display as part of its Superscreen, the Lexus gets a touchscreen and digital driver's display. The ES has a single-pane sunroof, whereas rivals offer more expansive options; the E-Class has a panoramic sunroof and the 5 Series LWB a fixed panoramic glass roof.
Strangely, the report points out that sunblinds are absent from the ES 350h, a feature the Mercedes sedan offers with powered operation. It notes that an older, seventh-generation facelift of the ES did pamper chauffeur-driven passengers with sunblinds and media controls. In the current model, rear passengers are provided with AC vents that include two Type-C ports.
Rear seat comfort limitations
The final drawback concerns rear seat comfort. While legroom is plentiful, the raised floor means rear passengers sit in a knees-up position. Furthermore, the backrest does not have a recline function. This works against the ES, according to the source, as both the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series are known for their impressive rear-seat experience. This is highlighted as an important consideration for those who prefer to be chauffeur-driven.
