If you want luxury without a sky-high price tag, consider Lexus’ entry-level sedan. Here’s what to look for when shopping for this used-car model in Canada.
Since 1992, the Lexus ES series has been a favourite of car buyers looking for a mix of excellent value and luxurious interior appointments. Parent company Toyota’s legendary reliability is an appreciated bonus. Those are among the reasons why the Lexus ES made my list of the 10 best used cars in Canada.
As a car reviewer, I’ve tested out the Lexus ES many times over the years, largely since this model is a staple of its segment. World-class ride comfort and luxury combine with its impeccably built cabin and quiet drive to give buyers a strong taste of the upscale motoring high life, but without breaking the bank.
Best of all, Japanese electronics seem much less finicky than German electronics as they age, meaning the Lexus ES owner community has reported fewer electronic gremlins as their vehicles age. Newer models come with available all-wheel drive, and you can find both gas and gas hybrid engines.
The sixth-generation Lexus ES ran from model years 2013 to 2018. If it’s in your budget, a 2017 or 2018 model year unit should make a compelling purchase, as you’ll be buying a facelifted model with the generation’s highest levels of feature content, design and value. A 2018 Lexus ES, for instance, amounts to one of the most reliable luxury sedans on the road, built by people and factories with seven years of experience on that model.An all-new Lexus ES hit the road for model year 2019. This seventh-generation unit got new looks, new connectivity tech, new engines and new safety tech. Whichever used Lexus ES you’re considering, you’ll find a strong safety story and a long list of the market’s latest luxury sedan must-haves, including a premium Mark Levinson audio system, climate-controlled seating, 10-way power adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, wood trim, a panoramic moon roof, a power rear window sunshade and more.
Few sedans at this price point set drivers up so nicely for endless hours of comfortable cruising. In many ways, the Lexus ES amounts to a social lounge on wheels.
The ES350 is an excellent small luxury car, and it’s never been more engaging to drive—especially when shoppers opt for the athletic F Sport variant. Just remember: the Lexus ES takes a comfort-first approach. While its engines offer plenty of power, the ride, steering and overall drive are tuned for relaxation, not exhilaration.
With that in mind, most owners agree that Lexus nailed the balance of providing all the hallmarks people expect from its vehicles: extreme refinement and comfort with just the right amount of spice added.
The Lexus ES is built on the same platform as the Toyota Avalon, which shares plenty with the Toyota Camry. Though extensively optimized for Lexus duty, the bones of this posh cruiser are, in part, sourced from some of the most proven and mass-produced sedans on the road.
Expect a knockout cabin with a striking design and even more striking materials and build quality. Here’s a cabin that impresses from the first glance and keeps the wow factor going as you take a close-up look with your eyes and fingertips.
In 2018, the ES received the latest version of the Lexus Safety System+, which provides new capabilities and expands the driving scenarios in which it can provide added protection. Look for daytime cyclist detection as part of the comprehensive pre-collision system (PCS), as well as nighttime pedestrian detection. That same year in Europe, the Lexus ES earned two Best in Class awards from Euro NCAP, for the Large Family Car and Hybrid & Electric categories—following a five-star rating achieved earlier that year under updated, more stringent testing protocols.
Also, a new world-first “swing valve” shock absorber design enhanced the ES’s ride, handling and comfort—especially during low-speed driving, too.
For model year 2020, the Lexus ES gained Android Auto functionality (added fall 2019), while more safety features became standard across a wider portion of the model line. For 2021, Lexus introduced all-wheel drive (AWD) to the model lineup, making the ES a stronger contender for the dollars of Canadian luxury shoppers who frequently encounter inclement weather.Kelley Blue Book has named the Lexus ES its Luxury Car Best Buy five years in a row, and the Texas Auto Writers Association called it the Best Mid-Size Luxury Car in 2019. U.S. News & World Report ranked the Lexus ES fourth amongst all mid-size luxury cars, and reliability and dependability data show it at or near the top of the charts. It’s no wonder this model has so many loyal owners who tend to stick to the brand.
Many used ES models will come powered by a highly proven 3.5-litre V6 engine with up to 302 horsepower, or a gas-sipping hybrid four-cylinder engine that cuts fuel use with 215 ponies. All models have automatic transmission.
Not too much. From front to back: The ES350’s grille is best described as “an acquired taste.” The touchpad interface for the infotainment system is perhaps the ES’s biggest point of contention. Some owners like it, while others find it over-complicates otherwise simple processes that could be handled with an onscreen tap.
Lastly, some drivers might see the F Sport badge and think they’ll be able to give their neighbour’s BMW 340i, Mercedes Benz C43 or Infiniti Q60 Red Sport cars a good run for their money—a thought that will ultimately end in disappointment once they drive the ES. Though it’s become more entertaining and aggressive over the years, shoppers after a thrilling sports sedan experience have better choices for their dollars.
When buying a used Lexus ES, remember that the way the vehicle was cared for by previous owners is a stronger indicator of reliability than the badge on the hood. Poor adherence to maintenance can ruin even the most reliable car, so opt for a Certified Pre-Owned unit or one with full history and servicing records, to be safe. Remember, remaining warranty coverage (if applicable) doesn’t cover damage or wear caused by a failure to properly maintain, inspect and service the vehicle.
A model that’s been regularly serviced by its dealership is likely to have had all relevant recalls and software updates applied, all inspections performed and all maintenance up to date—a fantastic starting point for a hassle-free ownership experience.
If you live in (or are buying a used ES from) a locale that’s cold and salty in the winter, consider opting for a model that’s been regularly treated with an oil spray or rust inhibitor, for maximum resale value down the line.
On your test drive, confirm that all steering-wheel-mounted controls work as expected, including the cruise control and horn. If that’s not the case, a component within the steering wheel called the clock spring may need to be replaced.
Be sure to listen carefully to the basic stereo system, too. Though owners tend to enjoy audiophile-level sound from the Mark Levinson upgrade unit, some say the standard-kit audio system is cheap and disappointing. If you’re just listening to podcasts and sports, you’ll be fine. If you’re after the ultimate in-car listening experience, budget for a model with the up-level system.
Speaking of on-the-go entertainment, check which smartphone connectivity suite is included with the Lexus ES you’re considering, noting that this car was relatively late to the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay game. Some drivers consider these to be must-have features, though Lexus only brought them to the ES from the 2020 and 2019 model years, respectively. A retrofit may be available for earlier models, contact your local dealer for more information.
If you don’t wish to break the bank on a luxury sedan, and you want to experience the same levels of comfort and refinement normally reserved for folks who plunk down much more than the ES’s asking price, then yes, please step up to the driver’s seat.
Only those who are looking for a sedan with canyon-carving abilities at the top of its resumé will be disappointed. The ES, outfitted in F Sport trim or otherwise, will find a home in driveways across Canada because it’s an honest luxury sedan that places comfort and quiet above all else.
Price as tested: $57,651
Body type: 4-door, 5-passenger sedan
Powertrain layout: Front engine/front-wheel drive
Engine: 3.5-litre V6, DOHC, 24 valves
Horsepower: 302 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 267 @ 4,700 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Curb weight: 1,655 kg (3,649 lbs)
Observed fuel consumption: 12.3 L/100 km (19 mpg)
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