2021 Lexus ES 300h Review
Price Range: $23,995 - $35,287
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Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2021 Lexus ES 300h is one of just a few luxury midsize hybrid sedans. Fuel economy is excellent, and the 300h handles surprisingly well and retains the Lexus hallmark focus on comfort and serenity. European plug-in hybrids are typically sportier, but the ES remains one of today's best all-around performers.
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2021 Lexus ES 300h Review
Pros
- Excellent ride quality and a quiet cabin
- Good fuel economy for the size and power
- Comfortable and mostly upscale interior
Cons
- Cumbersome infotainment interface
- Disappointing quality of some interior materials
- Rear seats don't fold down
- Acceleration is slow by luxury sedan standards
What's new
- The Lexus ES 300h carries over essentially unchanged
- Part of the seventh Lexus ES generation introduced for 2019
Overview
While there are quite a few luxury hybrid vehicles available for 2021, most of them are plug-in hybrids. So what if you just want a regular hybrid to help keep cost and complexity in check? One option could be the Lexus ES 300h. This luxury sedan is comfortable and quiet and offers seriously impressive fuel economy. The EPA estimates that the 300h will get 44 mpg combined, which is excellent for any sedan, let alone a luxury ride.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
11 listings
- Not Priced
- 45,052 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 43 City / 44 Hwy MPG
- Ray Catena Lexus of Freehold (190 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Freehold, NJ
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
44 Combined MPG (43 City/44 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 58ADA1C16MU003755
Stock: F260295A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 12-10-2025 - $36,491good price$1,160 below market
- 26,434 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 43 City / 44 Hwy MPG
- Fitzgerald Volkswagen (51 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Annapolis, MD
Recent Arrival! 2.5L I4 DOHC 16V, Leather.This vehicle has passed our Fitzway 138 point inspection and is Maryland State Inspected.43/44 City/Highway ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
44 Combined MPG (43 City/44 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 58AFA1C1XMU004271
Stock: PA36206A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 09-30-2025
The 300h has some drawbacks, such as poor acceleration for its class and an infotainment system with a steep learning curve. But overall this is a pretty appealing sedan. For all the details on the ES 300h and how it performs in the real world, read our Expert Rating below.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
7.9
out of 10
We drove the 2021 Lexus ES 300h on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7/10
How does the ES 300h drive? You don't expect much vigor or verve from a luxury hybrid, but the ES 300h handles surprisingly well. It stays composed in corners, with better body control than you'd expect from a luxury sedan. The ES 300h isn't made for stoplight sprints, but acceleration is decent for a hybrid. In Edmunds testing it achieved a 0-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds.
The 300h's steering has the same numb, light effort that plagues many hybrids, although Sport mode gives it a livelier feel. Braking is unfortunately clunky, with a harsh sensation when the ES switches between its regenerative and friction brake modes. Otherwise, the engine and CVT automatic's smooth acceleration makes the ES a pleasure to drive, even in city traffic, where it feels like it's gliding.
The 300h's steering has the same numb, light effort that plagues many hybrids, although Sport mode gives it a livelier feel. Braking is unfortunately clunky, with a harsh sensation when the ES switches between its regenerative and friction brake modes. Otherwise, the engine and CVT automatic's smooth acceleration makes the ES a pleasure to drive, even in city traffic, where it feels like it's gliding.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the ES 300h? Comfort and a sense of isolation remain ES hallmarks. The front seats are firm and supportive, without excessive side bolsters to impede entry and exit. 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.
This latest 300h hasn't lost its ability to absorb bumps and road rash either. 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 almost imperceptible. More warmth from the seat heaters on cold days would be nice.
This latest 300h hasn't lost its ability to absorb bumps and road rash either. 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 almost imperceptible. More warmth from the seat heaters on cold days would be nice.
Interior
8.5/10
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.
Drivers of most heights and body types should find a comfortable driving position given the ES' power-adjustable seat and mostly clear views all around the car. Only the ES' incoherent array of buttons and switchgear is inexplicably inelegant in an otherwise elegant cabin. (The volume knob is great, though, and feels like an old-school stereo receiver.)
Drivers of most heights and body types should find a comfortable driving position given the ES' power-adjustable seat and mostly clear views all around the car. Only the ES' incoherent array of buttons and switchgear is inexplicably inelegant in an otherwise elegant cabin. (The volume knob is great, though, and feels like an old-school stereo receiver.)
Technology
6.5/10
How’s the tech? Our test car came with the spectacular-looking 12-inch infotainment display. The widescreen navigation maps look great thanks to 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 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.
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.
Storage
8.5/10
How’s the storage? You get a big trunk with the ES 300h. The battery pack resides beneath the rear seats, so cargo space is 13.9 cubic feet, the same as in the non-hybrid ES. 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 a need for sliding up the front seats.
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 a need for sliding up the front seats.
Fuel Economy
9/10
How’s the fuel economy? With an EPA rating of 44 mpg combined, the ES 300h is one of the more efficient sedans you can buy. We observed 46.2 mpg on our evaluation route, which indicates that the EPA ratings are attainable.
Value
8.5/10
Is the ES 300h a good value? For a relatively affordable sum, the redesigned ES 300h delivers a substantial luxury experience. The upholstery feels supple and substantial, and the cabin shows typical Lexus attention to detail: tight panel gaps, high-quality controls and detailed stitching. Warranty coverage is on par for the segment.
It doesn't cost much more than a top-of-the-line Toyota Avalon Hybrid. Why not splurge a bit and get the Lexus?
It doesn't cost much more than a top-of-the-line Toyota Avalon Hybrid. Why not splurge a bit and get the Lexus?
Wildcard
7.5/10
The ES 300h isn't as fun to drive as more expensive European plug-in hybrids. But it excels in other ways. It's comfortable without being floaty, large without feeling ponderous, and serene without being detached. Sublime suspension tuning, a wonderful audio system, and a welcoming and roomy interior are other advantages.
2021 Lexus ES 300h trim level differences
The 2021 Lexus ES 300h is a midsize luxury sedan available in three trims: the base ES 300h, Luxury and Ultra Luxury. All trims are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor (215 total system horsepower) and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Only front-wheel drive is available.
Which ES 300h trim does Edmunds recommend?
The base trim on the Lexus ES 300h comes relatively well equipped, but we recommend upgrading to the midlevel Luxury trim. On top of the standard equipment, the Luxury trim adds heated and ventilated front seats, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and upgraded interior materials including leather upholstery.Compare 2021 Lexus ES 300h trim levels

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$80/mo for ES 300h Base
ES 300h Base
vs
$184/mo
Avg. Large Car
Reliability
The 2021 Lexus ES 300h has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #2 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent
#2 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$339/yr
vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
0.47x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
5.6%
vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
1 recall foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 23V865000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 23TA15, 23
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 999901
- Defect Description:
- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Defect Consequence:
- An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. This is a phased recall. The next phase is anticipated in June 2025. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Hybrid component Warranty
- 8 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / unlimited miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 1 years / 10,000 miles
Lexus ES 300h Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(77%)
4(10%)
3(0%)
2(3%)
1(10%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Beautiful car! Better ride!
5 out of 5 starsPat Kunnecke, 01/16/2021
2021 Lexus ES 300h Luxury 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
My wife and I love to travel and have gone through three ES models before this purchase. Just love the ride and luxury interior. Decided on the 300h this time and are very pleased. Still a smooth ride with plenty of pickup for the interstate on ramps. But now we add the 40+ mpg for both in town and long trips. It’s a beautiful ride.
ES300h Ultra Luxury
5 out of 5 starsRichard from Myrtle Beach, 12/29/2019
2020 Lexus ES 300h Ultra Luxury 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
This model has all of the bells and whistles that I wanted. Plus some new features I didn't know it had. For example, a forward camera that also provides a visual image when pulling up to a curb so you don't hit the front grille area.
After driving the car for six months I still love it but with two noticeable issues.
1) I received a Recall Notice that certain engine blocks were … defective so the entire engine must be replaced to avoid a possible fire. A defective engine will be replaced free of charge.
2) The steering column and seat height requires constant adjustment to avoid having my knee hit the steering column when braking. Evidently the steering column is slightly lower than previous models. Being tall I didn’t have this issue with my 2005 Lexus ES 330.
Love! Love! My Lexus !
5 out of 5 starsPatricia, 05/21/2021
2021 Lexus ES 300h Luxury 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
First of all I’m such a lexus fan once I had my first Lexus never looked back! My current hybrid is so smooth and I can’t remember the last time I had to put gas in it! I’m loving the smooth drive, beautiful interior and exterior, luxurious car and the fact that I can enjoy it without putting gas for over a month is a dream😄
Nicely Appointed Mid-Size Hybrid
5 out of 5 starsRichard, 11/28/2020
2021 Lexus ES 300h 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
Full set of modern safety features. Roomy trunk. Great deal on lease. Very comfortable. Hybrid drive very smooth and efficient. Able to connect Android cell phone to screen; can use Google Maps. Poor choice of exterior colors, but they had one my wife liked. Dealer sent out person to do orientation for all the features; he stayed 2.5 hours till we knew all the features and … "buttonology."
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Lexus ES 300h, so we've included reviews for other years of the ES 300h since its last redesign.
2021 ES 300h Highlights
Base
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $41,910 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Hybrid |
| Combined MPG | 44 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $80/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.9 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the ES 300h models:
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
- Bundles a variety of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist.
- Panoramic View Monitor
- Displays a 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle to aid in parking maneuvers.
- Blind-Spot Monitor
- Warns the driver if a vehicle is in the ES 300h's blind spot.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover10.5%
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