Interior
Our test car featured gorgeous honey-colored bamboo wood trim, soft materials on the dash and doors, and perforated semi-aniline leather seats. The updated modern interior provided a sense of openness and security.
Our two favorite pieces of tech were the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and the 835 Watts, 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. When activated, DRCC automatically adapts the car’s cruising speed in order to maintain a set following distance from vehicles ahead; a smart feature that saves a lot of adjustments when using cruise control.
The Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound audio system ranks as one of our top 5 favorite factory installed high-end car stereo systems. Sound stage reproduction is spot on and the level of detail is beautiful. If you enjoy fine audio, then we heartily recommend purchasing the optional Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Package.
One of our few gripes was the low output from the fans meant to cool your backside. We kept checking but there just wasn’t enough airflow to keep us cool and prevent us from sticking to the fine leather upholstery.
Our second gripe was with the navigation system and our user experience. We discovered an annoying problem of losing our destination point (which takes minutes to input) if the car is shifted into gear before the Nav has a chance to calculate the route, requiring the address to be entered AGAIN. Arrrgh!
Final Word
The 2013 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid, filled with high-tech features and luxury details, is an engineering accomplishment that combines world renowned hybrid technology, luxury, and substantial fuel savings in one vehicle.
2013 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid Sedan
- Engine: 2.5L Atkinson Cycle DOHC VVT-i I-4-hybrid engine
- Power: 156hp @ 5,700 rpm
- Torque: 156 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
- Transmission: electronically controlled CVT
- Total system power: 200hp
- Layout: front engine, front-wheel drive
- 0 – 60 mph: 8.1 seconds
- ¼ mile acceleration: 16.8 seconds
- EPA estimate fuel economy: 40 mpg (city) / 39 mpg (hwy) / 35 mpg observed
Options Tested
- HID headlamps
- Power trunk
- Intuitive park assist (not active)
- Rain sensing wipers
- Ultra luxury package – bamboo trim, leather seats, navigation, Mark Levinson 835 watt 15-speaker premium sound system
- Navigation/Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package
- Heated steering wheel andLeather trimmed shift knob
- Base = $38,850, as tested = $48,114
Save some money. Shop for your next Lexus hybrid on eBay Motors
