Lexus ES 300h F Sport: Review, Specs, And Performance

by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Lexus ES 300h F Sport, a car that perfectly blends luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness. If you're in the market for a sophisticated sedan that doesn't compromise on style or sustainability, you've come to the right place. This review covers everything from its stunning design and cutting-edge features to its impressive performance and fuel efficiency.

Exterior Design and Features

When it comes to exterior design, the Lexus ES 300h F Sport immediately grabs your attention. The F Sport variant takes the already elegant ES design and adds a sporty edge. The signature spindle grille, a hallmark of modern Lexus vehicles, is more aggressive in the F Sport, featuring a blacked-out mesh pattern that exudes confidence. Flanking the grille are sleek LED headlights with distinctive L-shaped daytime running lights, giving the car a piercing and sophisticated look.

The aerodynamic enhancements are not just for show; they contribute to the car's overall efficiency and stability. A subtle rear spoiler adds a touch of sportiness, while the unique F Sport badging lets everyone know this isn't your average ES. The 19-inch alloy wheels, specific to the F Sport, complement the car's athletic stance, providing a perfect balance of style and performance.

One of the standout features is the adaptive front lighting system, which adjusts the headlight beams based on driving conditions, ensuring optimal visibility at all times. The power moonroof adds an airy feel to the cabin, while the hands-free power trunk lid makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the exterior, from the meticulously crafted body lines to the perfectly integrated sensors and cameras.

The color options available for the ES 300h F Sport are equally impressive, ranging from classic shades like Ultra White and Obsidian to bolder choices like Ultrasonic Blue Mica and Matador Red Mica. Each color accentuates the car's design, allowing you to personalize your ride to match your style. Overall, the exterior of the Lexus ES 300h F Sport is a testament to Lexus's commitment to luxury and performance, making it a head-turner on the road.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the Lexus ES 300h F Sport, you're immediately enveloped in a world of luxury and cutting-edge technology. The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, from the supple leather seats to the elegant wood or metallic trim accents. The F Sport seats are designed to provide exceptional support and comfort, even on long journeys. With enhanced bolstering, these seats keep you firmly in place during spirited driving, adding to the overall sporty feel.

The centerpiece of the dashboard is the 12.3-inch infotainment display, which offers crisp graphics and intuitive controls. The system integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation with ease. The Lexus Enform suite provides connected services such as remote start, vehicle health reports, and emergency assistance, enhancing the overall ownership experience.

The ES 300h F Sport also boasts a premium sound system, delivering crystal-clear audio throughout the cabin. Whether you're listening to your favorite playlist or catching up on a podcast, the sound quality is sure to impress. The available head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road while staying informed.

Comfort is paramount in the ES 300h F Sport, with features like dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. Rear passengers are treated to ample legroom and their own climate controls, ensuring everyone travels in comfort. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the interior, from the perfectly stitched leather to the thoughtfully placed storage compartments.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Lexus ES 300h F Sport combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 215 horsepower. While this may not sound like a lot, the hybrid powertrain provides instant torque and smooth acceleration. The ES 300h F Sport is surprisingly quick off the line, making it a joy to drive in urban environments. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) ensures seamless gear changes, further enhancing the car's refined driving experience.

The F Sport suspension is tuned for a sportier ride, with stiffer springs and dampers that reduce body roll and improve handling. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) adjusts the damping force based on driving conditions, providing a comfortable ride on rough roads while maintaining composure in corners. The result is a car that feels both agile and planted, inspiring confidence behind the wheel.

The ES 300h F Sport also features a drive mode selector, allowing you to choose between Eco, Normal, Sport, and EV modes. Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and steering feel. EV mode allows you to drive on electric power alone for short distances, further reducing emissions. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, helping to recharge the hybrid battery and improve overall efficiency.

The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The brakes are strong and responsive, inspiring confidence in emergency situations. Overall, the Lexus ES 300h F Sport strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance, making it a joy to drive in any situation. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the ES 300h F Sport delivers a refined and engaging driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

One of the standout features of the Lexus ES 300h F Sport is its exceptional fuel efficiency. Thanks to its hybrid powertrain, the ES 300h F Sport achieves impressive fuel economy figures, making it one of the most fuel-efficient luxury sedans on the market. The EPA estimates that the ES 300h F Sport achieves around 44 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.

The hybrid system seamlessly integrates the gasoline engine and electric motor, maximizing efficiency without compromising performance. The electric motor provides instant torque, assisting the gasoline engine during acceleration and reducing fuel consumption. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, helping to recharge the hybrid battery and further improve fuel efficiency.

The ES 300h F Sport also produces significantly lower emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The hybrid powertrain reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. The ES 300h F Sport is a testament to Lexus's commitment to sustainability, offering a luxurious and eco-friendly driving experience.

Safety Features

Lexus prioritizes safety, and the ES 300h F Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is standard on all ES models, including the F Sport. This suite includes features such as pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, adaptive cruise control, and road sign assist.

The pre-collision system uses radar and cameras to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. If a collision is imminent, the system provides audible and visual warnings and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent the impact. Lane departure alert helps to keep you in your lane by providing warnings if you start to drift unintentionally. Lane tracing assist works in conjunction with adaptive cruise control to keep the car centered in its lane, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.

Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the car's speed to maintain a safe following distance. Road sign assist recognizes speed limit signs and displays them on the instrument panel, helping you stay aware of the current speed limit. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also available, providing an extra set of eyes to help you avoid accidents.

The ES 300h F Sport also features a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing protection for all occupants in the event of a collision. The car's robust structure is designed to absorb and distribute impact forces, further enhancing occupant safety. Overall, the Lexus ES 300h F Sport is a safe and reliable vehicle, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Lexus ES 300h F Sport:

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The ES 300h F Sport boasts a sleek and sporty exterior, making it a head-turner on the road.
  • Luxurious Interior: The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, providing a comfortable and refined driving experience.
  • Excellent Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.
  • Advanced Safety Features: The ES 300h F Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers.
  • Smooth and Refined Ride: The suspension is tuned for a comfortable and composed ride, making it a joy to drive in any situation.

Cons:

  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not appreciate the feel of the continuously variable transmission (CVT).
  • Infotainment System: While the infotainment system is functional, some users may find it less intuitive than other systems on the market.
  • Sporty but Not a True Sports Car: While the F Sport trim adds a sporty edge, the ES 300h is not a true sports car and may not satisfy enthusiasts looking for ultimate performance.

Conclusion

The Lexus ES 300h F Sport is a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious, fuel-efficient, and stylish sedan. It perfectly balances comfort, performance, and eco-friendliness, making it a standout in its class. While it may not be a true sports car, the F Sport trim adds a sporty edge that enhances the overall driving experience. If you're in the market for a sophisticated and sustainable sedan, the Lexus ES 300h F Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a fantastic blend of luxury and practicality!