2021 Lexus ES 250
2021 Lexus ES 250 Review
- Comfortable and mostly upscale interior
- Smooth ride
- Standard all-wheel drive on all ES 250 trims
- Plenty of space for the price
- Sluggish acceleration with inline-four engine
- Finicky infotainment interface
- Rear seats don't fold down
- New ES variant with four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive
- Part of the seventh ES generation introduced for 2019
The seventh-generation Lexus ES debuted a few years ago, and for 2021 the four-cylinder-powered ES 250 joins the V6-powered ES 350 and ES 300h hybrid models. It's not as powerful as the V6-equipped ES 350 — 203 horsepower compared to 302 hp — but it comes with just as many features and has a lower price. Plus, it has something no other ES model can claim: standard all-wheel drive.
Aside from the engine, the ES 250 is generally the same as the ES 350 and 300h. This is a comfortable and well-appointed midsize luxury sedan. But how much does having a modestly powered four-cylinder engine dampen the luxury car experience, especially compared to rivals such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Or should you get an ES 350 instead? Check out the categories of our Expert Rating below for our full in-depth evaluation.
Our verdict | |
The Lexus ES 250 finally brings an all-wheel-drive powertrain to the ES lineup. Unfortunately, the 250's lethargic four-cylinder engine is unworthy of being in a luxury car such as this. Unless you absolutely need the AWD system, the V6-powered ES 350 is a better buy. The ES 250's endearing qualities are otherwise present in the ES 350 as well. | |
How does the ES 250 drive? | |
The ES 250 isn't sporty and fun-to-drive like a 3 Series, but it's competent and stable when going around turns. The steering is a little light and uncommunicative, but it's nonetheless accurate. A smooth-shifting transmission and easy-to-control brakes are among the other highlights. But these attributes are also generally applicable to the ES 350 as well — a vehicle that doesn't share the ES 250's albatross: the non-turbocharged four-cylinder. Borrowed from the more pedestrian Toyota Camry, it produces nowhere near the power expected of the class. A 0-60 mph time of 8.8 seconds is embarrassing for a luxury car. Unless you absolutely need all-wheel-drive traction, the V6-driven ES 350 is a better buy. | |
How comfortable is the ES 250? | |
Comfort and a sense of isolation remain ES hallmarks. The front seats are firm and supportive and are easy to get in and out of. The rear seats are just as comfortable, if a bit wide and flat. You can sit up front or in back for long stretches without fatigue. The ES platform is more comfortable cruiser than sport sedan, and it absorbs bumps and road rash without transmitting harshness to the cabin. There's a bit of intrusive wind noise at highway speeds — more than we'd expect of a Lexus — but maybe it's just more noticeable since the car tames road and tire noise so well. Engine noise is palpable, however. The four-cylinder makes such a racket during acceleration you'll ponder why Lexus greenlit this Toyota engine for use in its luxury sedan. | |
How’s the interior? | |
Getting in and out of the ES is no trouble thanks to the low seat cushions and wide door openings. There's also a good-size gap between front passengers and door panels that creates a feeling of space. There's loads of room in the back seat, especially between the seatbacks and knees, even for 6-foot-tall passengers. That said, a standard sunroof and sloping roofline create headroom issues for tall folks. Drivers of most heights and body types should find a comfortable position given the power-adjustable seat and mostly clear views all around the car. Most controls are within reach. It's odd that Lexus didn't put the seat heating and cooling controls near the climate controls, but at least they are physical buttons and not virtual ones buried in a display screen menu. The ES' volume knob is great and feels like one from an old-school stereo receiver. | |
How’s the tech? | |
Our test car came with the spectacular-looking 12.3-inch infotainment display. The widescreen navigation maps look great thanks to the excellent color contrast and indicators. But using the touchpad controller while in motion is onerous — a dial-and-button controller would be preferable. Fortunately, you can control many nav, phone, audio and even climate control functions through voice commands. The optional Mark Levinson sound system is well worth its modest cost. The ES also includes several standard driver safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, which help minimize lane wandering. This isn't semi-automated driving and the degree of steering correction is limited, but it's useful for occasional lapses of attention. | |
How’s the storage? | |
You get a big trunk with the ES 250. Cargo space stands at 13.9 cubic feet, slightly more than most competitors. Unfortunately, you can't fold the rear seats to increase space; there's only a pass-through slot for long items. Storage for small items inside the cabin is abundant. There's also plenty of space for child safety seats, and they're easy to install. Just detach the plastic tabs over the car seat anchors in the seat cushions. Generous rear seat room means most seats will fit without needing to slide up the front seats. | |
How’s the fuel economy? | |
The ES 250 is estimated to achieve 28 mpg combined (25 city/34 highway). This is a few mpg better than most other four-cylinder-powered midsize luxury sedans with all-wheel drive, such as a BMW 530i xDrive. However, those rival sedans are considerably more powerful. | |
Is the ES 250 a good value? | |
For a relatively affordable sum, the ES 250 delivers a compelling luxury experience. The upholstery feels supple and substantial, and the cabin shows typical Lexus attention to detail in the tight panel gaps, high-quality controls and detailed stitching. Only the coarse and underpowered engine takes away from the typically excellent Lexus experience. Warranty coverage is on par for the segment. | |
Wildcard | |
The Lexus ES 250 does not deliver the driving dynamics afforded by any of its rivals, or even the V6-powered ES 350. The four-cylinder/AWD combo makes this ES feel more ponderous than anything else in the class. Even when you look past the powertrain, there's not much else going on here to stir excitement. The distinctive design affords the ES 250 some personality, and the interior is larger and more lovingly crafted than the price tag suggests. It's a definite step up from the Toyota Avalon, on which it is based, but it's a shame that the four-cylinder is so groany and loud. | |
Which ES 250 does Edmunds recommend?
Go for the ES 250 Luxury. This midlevel trim has many appealing extras over the base trim while keeping the price reasonable. Get the optional Mark Levinson audio system too; you'll definitely enjoy its superb sound quality. Don't bother with the F Sport, though — if you want a sporty Lexus, the IS 300 and 350 are better choices.
Lexus ES 250 models
The ES 250 is available in four trim levels: Base, F Sport, Luxury and Ultra Luxury. All ES 250s are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 horsepower, 184 lb-ft) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the other two models, all ES 250s come standard with all-wheel drive. Feature highlights include:
Save as much as $1,653 with Edmunds Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.
2021 Lexus ES 250 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Base
2.5L 4cyl 8A
Edmunds suggests you pay$40,524
1 for sale in 20147
Luxury
2.5L 4cyl 8A
Edmunds suggests you pay$44,818
1 for sale in 20147
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $40,000
- MPG & Fuel
- 25 City / 34 Hwy / 28 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 203 hp @ 6500 rpm
- Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 195.9 in. / Height: 57.1 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 73.4 in.
- Curb Weight: 3780 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 13.9 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite ES 250 safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Uses radar to detect when vehicles are alongside and alerts the driver to potential side collision due to a lane change maneuver.
- Lexus Enform Safety Connect
- Provides automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, an emergency button inside the cabin, and enhanced roadside assistance.
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
- Bundles a variety of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist.
Lexus ES 250 vs. the competition
2021 Lexus ES 250
2021 Acura TLX
Lexus ES 250 vs. Acura TLX
The Acura TLX was fully redesigned for 2021. It packs an all-new interior and exterior design, updated tech and new powertrains. It's larger than before, though backseat passengers don't have quite as much space as in the Lexus. It also lacks the ES 250's standard all-wheel drive. But it is both more enjoyable to drive and more comfortable.
Lexus ES 250 vs. Audi A4
The Audi A4 benefits from a recent update that did a good bit to keep one of the oldest luxury sedans feeling fresh. The interior is comfortable and well appointed, though it doesn't have quite as much space as the Lexus. Standard all-wheel drive is a boon, and we're fans of the A4's turbocharged engine and easy-to-use in-car tech.
Lexus ES 250 vs. BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is much more athletic and rewarding to drive than the ES 250, and even the base engine in the BMW makes the Lexus feel sluggish in comparison. Like most other sedans, it lacks the ES 250's standard all-wheel drive or rear seat space. It's interior isn't as comfortable either, though we do like the overall design and premium feel.
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FAQ
Is the Lexus ES 250 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 ES 250 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. You probably care about Lexus ES 250 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the ES 250 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the ES 250 has 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Lexus ES 250. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Lexus ES 250?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Lexus ES 250:
- New ES variant with four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive
- Part of the seventh ES generation introduced for 2019
Is the Lexus ES 250 reliable?
To determine whether the Lexus ES 250 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the ES 250. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the ES 250's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Lexus ES 250 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Lexus ES 250 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 ES 250 and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 ES 250 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Lexus ES 250?
The least-expensive 2021 Lexus ES 250 is the 2021 Lexus ES 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $40,000.
Other versions include:
- F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) which starts at $45,800
- 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) which starts at $40,000
- Ultra Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) which starts at $49,000
- Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A) which starts at $45,200
What are the different models of Lexus ES 250?
If you're interested in the Lexus ES 250, the next question is, which ES 250 model is right for you? ES 250 variants include F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A), 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A), Ultra Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A), and Luxury 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 8A). For a full list of ES 250 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more