Lexus ES 250

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Rating7.6

Ranked #4 in 

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$40,950 - $50,130
Starting Price 
$37,900
Starting Market Average
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on January 31, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Stylish design

Less rear headroom

No major update

Spacious cabin

Average ride quality

Decent fuel economy

Lackluster engine performance

2022 Lexus ES 250 for sale

The Lexus brand is well-known, highly regarded, and has a large following. Luxury vehicles are Lexus's specialty, and they offer a wide variety of options. From the very first release of the ES 250, consumers have been very enthusiastic about it. As a successor to the ES 250 that was introduced in 2021, the Lexus ES 250 is not expected to receive any significant updates for the 2022 MY.

Buying Advice

Among all the siblings, the features on the topmost trim level, Ultra Luxury, are the most luxurious and appealing. As a high-end luxury sedan, it comes with a wide range of features. However, since the price of more than $49,000 is so high, we wouldn't recommend purchasing it for its features alone. It could have justified its price if the powertrain of the Ultra Luxury trim was slightly more powerful and upgraded from the rest of the trims. However, we recommend that you buy the base trim since it will save you a ton of money and provide you with all the necessary features as well as high-end luxury options that will be enough for daily commuting and ambiance.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Both the interior and exterior will be well designed and have a luxurious feel to them. If you are looking for a vehicle with a modern, stylish design, smooth ride, and roomy cabin, the ES 250 is a great choice. The base model of the car will cost approximately $42,025, which puts it directly in competition with the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C 300, and BMW 330i sedans.

Features
8.0/10

The 2022 Lexus ES 250 will most probably be available in the same four trim levels, including Base, Luxury, F Sport, and Ultra Luxury. It is nice that Lexus names the trim levels appropriately to make it as easy as possible for customers to choose a special one that suits them. If the trim retains its structure then it is most likely that each trim will be equipped with the same powertrain, which is a 2.5L Inline-4 engine. Every trim level will also have the same AWD drivetrain. 

The only thing distinguishing the trims will be the level of comfort and infotainment features that are speculated to be kept in continuation in them. Features on the base model include leather seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, adjustable power seats, and much more. A little information technology upgrade is then offered on the following Luxury trim. Moreover, the F Sports goes on to host the exclusive F SPORT NuLuxe Seat Trim along with 19" x 8J Split-5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels that signifies the meaning of its nameplate. 

However, the Ultra Luxury trim is the one with the most premium features. It will be equipped with heated and ventilated front seats, memory-equipped mirrors and steering wheel, a 12.3-inch screen, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system. These variations are of the 2021 model which we firmly believe are going to be replicated in the upcoming model. 

Trims

Base

Luxury

F Sport

Ultra Luxury

MSRP (AWD)

$42,025

$47,225

$47,825

$51,025

Key Features

Dual-zone climate control

8-inch multimedia color display

Amazon Alexa compatibility

Rain-sensing windshield wipers

 

Interior Air Filter

14-way power-adjustable driver's seat

HomeLink Garage Door Transmitter

Heated and ventilated front seats

 

14-way power-adjustable driver seat

10 speaker pioneer audio system

F SPORT NuLuxe Seat Trim

Power-folding outside mirrors & Power- tilt-& telescopic steering column

 

Perforated-Nuxe leather trim

Parking assist

Memory Settings

Lexus memory system for driver's seat, outside mirrors & steering wheel

 

Mounted steering wheel controls

Power rear sunshade

Distance Pacing

12.3-inch multimedia color display

 

Forward Collision Warning

Blind- Spot Monitor with rear cross-traffic alert

19" x 8J Split-5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels

Mark Levison 17-speaker 1,800-watt PurePlay Premium

Just like the variations, some standard assists have left such an impression on the customer base that scraping them off will be the last thing the engineers will do. Such names include the mention of the Apple CarPlay integration, Android Auto compatibility, Speed Compensated Volume Control, and the HomeLink Garage Door Transmitter. The safety prowess, if in the same status as that of its predecessor, will be no less than a benchmark for others to get inspired by and to follow the lead as the presence of Lexus Safety System+ with Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Alert is just exemplary.

Which Trim Should You Buy?

Among all the siblings, the features on the topmost trim level, Ultra Luxury, are the most luxurious and appealing. As a high-end luxury sedan, it comes with a wide range of features. However, since the price of more than $49,000 is so high, we wouldn't recommend purchasing it for its features alone. It could have justified its price if the powertrain of the Ultra Luxury trim was slightly more powerful and upgraded from the rest of the trims. However, we recommend that you buy the base trim since it will save you a ton of money and provide you with all the necessary features as well as high-end luxury options that will be enough for daily commuting and ambiance.

2022 Lexus ES 250 Release Date 

Though Lexus has released the imagery of the 2022 Lexus ES 250, the official specifications and dates are yet in the shades of gray. Still, we have a tentative prediction in this regard that the release date would be somewhere closer to its on-sale date only for keeping the flow of sales in linearity with the craze it is brewing as per its past performance.  

Fuel Economy
5.0/10

The Lexus ES 250 is very economical despite having an all-wheel-drive system. In the city, it can go 25 miles on a gallon of gas, while on the highway, it delivers an average of 34 MPG. In mixed driving conditions, you get a combined mileage of around 28 MPG, which is at par with most of its competitors. The fuel tank size of the ES 250 is 15.9 gallons, which is a very large size for its class, enabling it to go over 500 miles on highways.

Models

2022 Lexus ES 250

2021 BMW 330i

2021 Audi A4

2021 Mercedes-Benz C 300

MPG (City)

25

26

25

23

MPG (Highway)

34

36

34

35

MPG (Combined)

28

30

28

28

Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons)

15.9

15.6

15.3

17.4

Range (City/Highway/Combined, in Miles)

350/509/413

406/562/468

352/520/413

418/609/487

* Some data in the tables has been taken from 2021 MY, since 2022 MY's official figures have not been released yet.

In terms of comparison, the most desirable among all is the Mercedes-Benz C 300 as the numbers speak for themselves, averaging a combined efficiency of 30 MPG. Right from the fuel tank capacity to range coverage, everything enhances its overall practicality. It is closely followed by the BMW 330i and Audi A4 in the same order. Though the numbers might not be parallel for the Lexus it is still manageable and can’t be outrightly rejected.

Interior
8.0/10

The interior of the 2022 Lexus ES 250 will be most likely similar to that of its predecessor. Apart from its spacious interior, this sedan is also very luxurious and comfortable. Another good thing about this sedan is the high seat cushioning which cups you in it in a desirable posture. Also, the door opening is quite large and the space between the doors and the seats is volumetrically enough to make the cabin feel airy. 

On the dashboard, there are many physical buttons, which makes it seem cluttered. At the front, the seats can be power-adjusted in 12 different ways and are exceptionally flexible with no dearth of room. As for the rear, there's plenty of legroom and shoulder room, however, due to its sloping roofline structure and sunroof, it eliminates some of the extra headroom at the back which may pose a problem for some. 

With regards to features, it meets all the demands and expectations. But only the Ultra Luxury version, equipped with memory functions and heated seats, offers the best experience of luxury. With a cargo capacity of 16.7 cubic feet, the ES 250 is one of the most balanced luxury sedans in its class.​​​​​

Models

2022 Lexus ES 250

2021 BMW 330i

2021 Audi A4

2021 Mercedes-Benz C 300

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder room/Legroom) (in)

37.5/55.9/42.4

38.7/56.0/42.0

37.3/55.9/41.3

37.1/55.3/41.7

Second Row (Headroom/Shoulder room/Legroom) (in)

37.8/54.3/39.2

37.6/54.6/35.2

37.4/54.5/35.7

37.1/55.0/35.2

Trunk Capacity (cubic feet)

16.7

17.0

12.0

12.6

* Some data in the tables has been taken from 2021 MY, since 2022 MY's official figures have not been released yet.

The interior space of the ES 250 sedan is unmatched in its class. The ES 250 sedan stands out from the competition both in terms of front and rear spacing. However, the only drawback of the ES 250 sedan is its lack of headroom in the rear.

The 330i and ES 250 offer almost the same cargo capacity which is followed by the other two, with the Audi A4 lurking at the bottom of the table, having a trunk volume of only 12 cu.-ft. The leatherette touches all over the inserts and steering wheel with standard Perforated-Nuxe is an added benefit with space management inside the cabin of the Lexus ES 250 and hence improves its stature among its rivals. Some key features of this car’s interior are mentioned below:

  • Cruise Control
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Heated ventilated seats with memory function (Top trim)
  • Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Controls
  • Ambient Lighting
  • 12-way power-adjustable driving seats

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The dash of the Lexus ES 250 has a big 8.0-inch display screen. Other than that, the base trims are equipped with 10 speakers, while the top trim comes with a Mark Levison 17-speaker audio system. Also included with the Lexus Enform remote are Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which let you control things with voice commands. There's also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto options for connectivity. 

Other features include Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity, a Color LCD multi-information display, and Lexus Apps. The Navigation package is only available on the top trim, but you can add it to the base trims by choosing the Navigation Package. Some highlight infotainment features of this car are mentioned below:

  • 8.0” Dual Touch Screen Display
  • Apple Carplay & Android Auto
  • Lexus Enform Remote
  • Navigation (Top trim or Package)
  • Mark Levison 17-speaker system

Exterior
7.0/10

The exterior styling of the ES 250 predecessors has been very unique and different throughout and we can see that trend in the same stream of flow. The wide front fascia has an aggressive expression with its projector-beam headlamps and trapezoidal chrome-accented grille that have been cast over a dark background with a Lexus badge in the center. 

The elegance in the silhouette is very well maintained with its complementary standard wheel setup of the 17" x 7.5J Split 10-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels. The semicircular stamping on the fender is indicative of the attention to details the sculptors have paid to. The body lines on the door panels and creases on the bonnet are also easily visible that extend its sleek curvature. It is, therefore, safe to conclude that it stands apart from the crowd and with its identity.

Models

2022 Lexus ES 250

2021 BMW 330i

2021 Audi A4

2021 Mercedes-Benz C 300

Curb Weight (lbs)

3780 lbs

3589 lbs

3417 lbs

3472 lbs

Length (in)

195.9”

185.7”

187.5”

184.5"

Width (in)

73.4"

71.9"

72.5”

71.3"

Height (in)

57.1"

56.8”

56.2”

56.8"

Ground Clearance (in)

5.0"

5.7"

N/A

3.8"

Wheelbase (in)

113.0"

112.2"

111.0"

111.8"

* Some data in the tables has been taken from 2021 MY, since 2022 MY's official figures have not been released yet.

Here, the Lexus ES 250 has the longest wheelbase and lengthiest frame in its segment, measuring 113 inches and 195.6 inches respectively, which contribute to its spacious interior but also take a toll on its cornering and cambering abilities on the tracks that further depend on tech assists for implementation. It also comes out to be the heaviest among all weighing 3,780 lbs, meaning, the longitudinal mass transfer will be an inherent default present right from the beginning for which the anti-roll bars become a necessity. 

The same is somewhat true to its rivals as well as they hardly differ in their figures. Therefore, we would rate the rivals at par with one another and supremacy being a determinant of additional tech-complexity. Even its ground clearance is adequate, however, the 2021 BMW 3-Series leads in this aspect with a total clearance from the ground of 5.7 inches. Additionally, both the BMW and Mercedes-Benz are equally tall, while the Audi A4 is relatively shorter and also boasts a lower curb weight of 3,417 lbs. Some of the key exterior features are:

  • Hands-free tailgate
  • Heated, Power-Folding Adjustable Mirrors
  • Power Sunroof with tilt and slide feature
  • LED Headlamps With LED DRL’s
  • 17.0-inch alloy wheels

Safety
9.0/10

As the 2022 Lexus ES 250 hasn't been launched yet, we will examine the safety ratings of its previous year model. The NHTSA rates the 2021 Lexus ES 250 a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars for its safety. This sedan has performed exceptionally well during crash testing. In addition to that, it is kind of mandatory for this sedan to achieve a top safety rating because it competes with some of the most renowned brands in this industry. 

Unfortunately, the same sort of rating has not been done by the IIHS yet, thereby leaving the conclusion in the midway only. But to rub off those safety concerns, the brand has armed it with an inspiring array of active features like the radar cruise control, lane follower assist, and pre-collision safety features. The list does not end here as it goes on to add other assets like the Intelligent high beams and Automatic Emergency Braking at its disposal too. Some of the key safety features on board include:

  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Pre-collision safety system
  • Lane following assist
  • Radar cruise control
  • Forward collision warning
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Intelligent high beams
  • Road sign assist
  • Lane departure warning
  • Lane tracing assist

Competition
9.0/10

2022 Lexus ES 250 vs 2021 BMW 330i

Compared to the ES 250, the BMW 330i has a slightly higher price tag. However, if we compare performance, the 330i sedan is far superior to the ES 250. The 330i sedan has almost 70 hp more to bring into use than the ES 250 and the acceleration is also better than the former. The BMW stays true to its core and comes out to be a better proposition here. That is why we recommend the BMW 3-Series sedan in this instance.

2022 Lexus ES 250 vs 2021 Audi A4

Both of these sedans are priced similarly, but the Audi A4 sedan outperforms the ES 250 in terms of performance and ride quality. Additionally, the ES 250 has more space for its passengers inside as well as slightly better fuel economy. Still, the A4 sedan has the edge in terms of overall performance, safety, and luxury.

2022 Lexus ES 250 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz C 300

We would say that the overall conclusion remains the same as with the other two competitors. When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes-Benz C 300 is ahead. The ride quality is also superior. The Lexus ES 250 only dominates other rivals in terms of having a spacious cabin. Nevertheless, the C 300 sedan is a better value proposition than the ES 250 within a competitive price range.

Final Verdict

It is unlikely that the 2022 Lexus ES 250 will have any unique characteristics that would set it apart from other competitors. From the outside, it indeed has an interesting appearance and even the interior would be an excellent place to enjoy luxury and comfort. Unfortunately, its sluggish acceleration and engine power do not justify its price tag for the segment it competes in. Therefore, we recommend that you consider its rivals, as they would provide greater value for your money. 

Trims

  • All
  • Base
    2022 Lexus ES 250 Base
    $40,950 onwards
    • 17-inch aluminum Wheels
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Driver and passenger Lumbar support
    • Dual zone automatic front air conditioning
    +10 More
    price,mpg,engine,transmission,colors,drivetrain,0to60
    View in Details +
    Trim Namepricempg(city/high/comb)enginetransmissioncolorsdrivetrain0-60
    4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A)$40,950(25/28/34)203 hp @ 6500 rpm, 2.5 L, Inline 4, Regular Unleaded8-speed AutomaticTBDall wheel drive8.5 sec.
  • F Sport
    2022 Lexus ES 250 F Sport
    $45,600 onwards
    price,mpg,engine,transmission,colors,drivetrain,0to60
    View in Details +
    Trim Namepricempg(city/high/comb)enginetransmissioncolorsdrivetrain0-60
    F Sport 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A)$45,600(25/28/34)203 hp @ 6500 rpm, 2.5 L, Inline 4, Regular Unleaded8-speed Automaticall wheel drive8.4 sec.
  • Luxury
    2022 Lexus ES 250 Luxury
    $46,350 onwards
    • 18-inch aluminum Wheels
    • Leather Seat trim
    price,mpg,engine,transmission,colors,drivetrain,0to60
    View in Details +
    Trim Namepricempg(city/high/comb)enginetransmissioncolorsdrivetrain0-60
    Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A)$46,350(25/28/34)203 hp @ 6500 rpm, 2.5 L, Inline 4, Regular Unleaded8-speed AutomaticTBDall wheel drive8.5 sec.
  • Ultra Luxury
    2022 Lexus ES 250 Ultra Luxury
    $50,130 onwards
    • 18-inch polished aluminum Wheels
    • Navigation system
    • Semi-Aniline leather Seat trim
    price,mpg,engine,transmission,colors,drivetrain,0to60
    View in Details +
    Trim Namepricempg(city/high/comb)enginetransmissioncolorsdrivetrain0-60
    Ultra Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A)$50,130(25/28/34)203 hp @ 6500 rpm, 2.5 L, Inline 4, Regular Unleaded8-speed AutomaticTBDall wheel drive8.5 sec.

Compare to similar cars

Price

$44,600- $49,850

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.71

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque

295 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$55,900- $69,500

Gasoline

7.92

335 hp @ 5000 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

5

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$41,450- $43,450

Gasoline

8.21

255 hp @ 5000 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1550 rpm

5

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$52,850- $55,950

Gasoline

7.48

455 hp @ 6000 rpm

523 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm

5

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$39,900- $50,900

Gasoline

7.45

261 hp @ 5000 rpm

273 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

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$54,950- $62,750

Gasoline

8.2

362 hp @ 5500 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

5

Read Review

$54,200- $62,250

Gasoline

9.1

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$48,250- $70,895

Gasoline

6.95

375 hp @ 5800 rpm

391 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$45,300- $51,000

Gasoline

8.02

296 hp @ 5500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$40,950- $50,130

Gasoline

7.71

302 hp @ 6600 rpm

267 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

5

Read Review

2022 Lexus ES 250 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    8.5 sec--
    2022 Audi A7

    Ranked #1

    5.2 sec13.7 sec130 mph
    5.6 sec14.1 sec130 mph
    5.8 sec14.1 sec155 mph
    5.8 sec--
    5.8 sec--

    2022 Lexus ES 250 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      25 mpg34 mpg28 mpg15.9 gal.397.5/540.6 mi.
      26 mpg36 mpg30 mpg15.6 gal.405.6/561.6 mi.
      25 mpg35 mpg29 mpg17.4 gal.435/609 mi.
      2022 Audi A4

      Ranked #2

      26 mpg34 mpg29 mpg15.3 gal.397.8/520.2 mi.
      25 mpg33 mpg28 mpg18 gal.450/594 mi.
      23 mpg33 mpg27 mpg17 gal.391/561 mi.

      2022 Lexus ES 250 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        195.9 in.73.4 in.56.9 in.-113 in. -
        200.4 in.74.6 in.57.1 in.5.9 in.120.5 in. -
        196.7 in.75.8 in.57.7 in.5.5 in.118.5 in. -
        195.9 in.73.4 in.56.9 in.5.9 in.113 in. -
        195.8 in.73.5 in.58.2 in.5.5 in.117.1 in. -
        2022 Audi A7

        Ranked #5

        195.6 in.75.1 in.56 in.4.2 in.115.2 in. -

        2022 Lexus ES 250 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          13.9 cu.ft.99.9 cu.ft.13.9 cu.ft.
          13.9 cu.ft.99.9 cu.ft.13.9 cu.ft.
          13.1 cu.ft.103.8 cu.ft.100.7 cu.ft.
          17 cu.ft.125.8 cu.ft.61 cu.ft.
          2022 Audi A4

          Ranked #2

          12 cu.ft.124.6 cu.ft.41 cu.ft.
          13.1 cu.ft.141.4 cu.ft.91.9 cu.ft.

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