Mark Fulmer Executive Producer, Editor The Auto Channel
The Lexus ES 300h appeared in the United States in 2018 with a strong suit in ride quality and refined interior. It shares the same platform with its sibling, the Camry Hybrid, and has a strut suspension with coil springs up front and multi-link suspension with coil springs on the back end. Anti-roll bars are present on all four sections and that give a cloud-like experience which is soft, but not too soft. The 2022 version gets an F Sport treatment that is visual not mechanical. The result is a fuel efficient upscale sedan that is a pleasure for driver and passengers alike.
Beneath the hood is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 engine paired to a single electric motor. I generates 215 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque and sends it to an electronically controlled CVT with multiple driving modes that is responsive from 0 to 112 mph.
The front leatherette bucket seats are both 10-way power adjustable and include lumbar adjustments. You will not feel cramped as the supportive seats offer outstanding headroom and legroom. Front head room 37.5 in. Front leg room 42.4 in. Front shoulder room 55.9 in. Front hip room 55.0 in
The rear seat, which can comfortably fit three passengers is equally roomy and comfortable. Throughout the interior soft touch materials enhance the traveling experience. Rear head room 37.4 in. Rear leg room 39.3 in. Rear shoulder room 54.0 in. Rear hip room 54.3 in.
Cargo capacity, all seats in place is a useful 13.9 cu.ft.
The Entune infotainment system features include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, navigation, SiriusXM radio, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity. The 10-speaker audio system is well suited to the interior and produces great sounding audio.
Safety systems include: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Lane Tracing Assist Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist Road Sign Assist All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control Intelligent High Beams Ten standard airbags Backup camera with dynamic gridlines
All in all, there is a lot of value, comfort, and ride included in this 43K sedan.
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