The Lexus ES has now developed a reputation for offering luxury, convenience, and reliability in a very tasteful package. Known for its sleek design and posh features, the Lexus ES seems to cut out a niche in the luxury sedan segment. Its range—from a fuel-efficient four-cylinder to a V-6 with some real oomph and even a hybrid version—represents quite a good deal for all those who want style and performance together. Optional AWD on select trims gives it real versatility. The cabin inside is spacious and refined, and the ride is super smooth.
Though the Lexus ES shares underpinnings with the Toyota Camry, it’s hardly similar to its European competitors—the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, or Mercedes-Benz E-Class—for a sporty feel.
Then again, that also means that the price is significantly lower, so if one desires comfort and a plush ride above razor-sharp handling, this will be a perfect choice. Let’s explore the difference between ES250 and ES350.
Lexus ES 250 (Starting From $42,040)
The Lexus ES 250 is a very quiet and serene mid-size luxury sedan. With 203 horsepower available from its 2.5-litre four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, it’s OK.
While that base engine is no slouch, an optional 302-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 is fitted to the ES 350 and better suits the sedan’s luxury brief. For the fuel economy chasers, a hybrid variant of the ES 300h makes 215 horsepower, with an EPA-estimated 44 mpg in combined driving.
Lexus ES 350 (Starting From $42,040)
The V-6 engine has a displacement of 3.5 litres and is capable of 302 horsepower, including an eight-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Braking is also very up-to-date, with ABS, plenty of airbags that will protect passengers from virtually all sides, dynamic radar cruise control to prevent or minimize accidents by automatically adjusting the distance between your vehicle and the one in front, and electronic stability control.
The already admirable list is added with the ES 350, which tacks on 17-inch aluminium wheels, adaptive cruise control, and a power tilt-and-slide moonroof to give owners a taste of both performance and luxury from this model.
Hidden Differences Between Lexus ES250 and ES350
While the Lexus ES 250 and ES 350 occupy identical real estate in the luxury sedan segment, they provide two divergent driving experiences. Despite their similar placement on a comfort-, refinement-, and tech-infused platform, these two vehicles diverge at extreme ends of the spectrum: performance, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics. Let’s explore what puts these two sedans apart.
1. Performance and Engine
The 2024 Lexus ES 250 AWD and ES 350 FWD possess distinct performance personas to serve two divergent driving styles. The ES 250 AWD is fitted with a 2.5-litre I-4 that puts out 203 horsepower; it will be the better choice for drivers concerned with fuel economy and all-weather traction.
While a more powerful 3.5-litre V-6 powers the ES 350 FWD for 302 horsepower and gives drivers the boost they want from their cars, both are fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission that assures smooth and responsive gear shifts.
| Features | Lexus ES 250 AWD | Lexus ES 350 FWD |
| Drivetrain | All Wheel Drive (AWD) | Front Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Engine Type | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Regular Unleaded V-6 |
| Displacement (litres/cubic inches) | 2.5 L/152 | 3.5 L/211 |
| Horsepower @ RPM | 203 @ 6600 | 302 @ 6600 |
| Torque @ RPM | 184 @ 4000 | 267 @ 4700 |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic w/OD | 8-speed Automatic w/OD |
2. Fuel Efficiency and Range
Fuel efficiency-wise, both Lexus models boast respectable figures, but their focus is on slightly different needs. For instance, the ES 250 AWD has a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg, which is handy, especially in city driving. The ES 350 F Sport FWD offers excellent performance at a combined 26 mpg, making it less fuel-efficient than the other.
The two cars are more than ready for any road drive with their almost similar driving ranges, though the former may offer fewer stops at a gas station.
| Features | Lexus ES 250 AWD | Lexus ES 350 FWD |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 28 / 25 / 34 | 26 / 22 / 32 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gallons) | 14.5 | 15.9 |
| Range (miles) | 362.50 / 493.00 | 349.80 / 508.80 |
| CO2 Emissions (tons/year) | 6.3 | 6.8 |
3. Dimensions & Weight
The dimensions and weight are what play a highly crucial role in the handling of the car and its interior space. Both the ES 250 AWD and ES 350 FWD have equal lengths of 195.9 inches and a width of 73.4 inches, making both very spacious and comfortable for all passengers.
The only difference, however, is in their curb weight; then the ES 250 AWD is a bit heavier than the former because of its AWD feature, which adds to its stability in diverse driving conditions. Despite these differences, both models maintain a well-balanced structure to deliver smooth and controlled drive experiences.
| Features | Lexus ES 250 AWD | Lexus ES 350 FWD |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 113 | 113 |
| Length (inches) | 195.9 | 195.9 |
| Width (inches) | 73.4 | 73.4 |
| Height (inches) | 56.9 | 56.9 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 3737 | 3690 |
4. Interior Dimensions
Internally, both Lexus models offer a spacious, luxurious cabin that accommodates five passengers comfortably. The legroom is generous at the front and rear—42.4 inches up front and 39.2 inches in the rear—to keep the driver and passengers comfortable on long drives.
Both models offer the same trunk space of 13.9 cubic feet, which can easily hold your luggage or groceries. You’ll find the same legroom and interior space with the ES 250 AWD or ES 350 FWD that Lexus is known for, perfect for family getaways and everyday commuting.
| Features | Lexus ES 250 AWD | Lexus ES 350 FWD |
| Passenger Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front LegRoom (inches) | 42.4 | 42.4 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 39.2 | 39.2 |
| Trunk Space (cubic feet) | 13.9 | 13.9 |
5. Wheels, Tyres, & Brakes
The ES 250 AWD and ES 350 F Sport feature several safety innovations within the wheel, tyre, and braking systems. Both versions have 17-inch aluminium wheels with P215/55VR17 tyres for the best grip and perfect stability on the road. The 4-wheel disc brakes also come standard for the best stopping power you rely on while driving in various conditions.
All the fundamental differences come down to the drivetrain, with the ES 250 AWD oriented toward more grip and the ES 350 FWD biased toward providing a more balanced and reactive drive.
| Features | Lexus ES 250 AWD | Lexus ES 350 FWD |
| Front Wheel Size (inches) | 17 x 7.5 | 17 x 7.5 |
| Front Wheel Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Front Tyre Size | P215/55VR17 | P215/55VR17 |
| Brake Type | 4-Wheel Disc | 4-Wheel Disc |
| Front Brake Rotor Size (inches) | 12 | 12 |
Related FAQs
What Is The Difference Between Lexus ES250 And ES350?
Compared to its sibling, the ES 250, the ES 350 has an upgraded engine. This vehicle will feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive for quick acceleration and sporty handling.
Which is better, IS250 or ES 350?
According to iSeeCars, The Lexus ES 350 often holds an edge over the IS 250 in several key areas. It typically offers lower prices in the used car market, a more spacious interior, and a more powerful base engine. However, both models share similar fuel efficiency ratings.
Ultimately, the choice between the Lexus ES 250 and 350 will boil down to a few factors related to how one drives and what matters. With its thrifty 2.5-litre engine and all-wheel drive, the ES 250 makes it perfect for those who love fuel economy and confident travel during inclement weather. That means it’s an ideal option for anyone seeking serenity and a stable ride without giving up too much on performance.
Where the ES 350 is more focused, though—thanks to its more potent 3.5-litre V6 engine—it gives a more dynamic and spirited driving experience that might apply to those who want some power and just a little excitement in their drive.
This model is outstanding for acceleration and responsiveness, with the blend of luxury and performance very hard to beat. The same elegance in design and luxurious interiors run through both, ensuring that either way, you will be driving in comfort and style. Ultimately, whether it is fuel efficiency and traction or power and agility, a Lexus ES model suits every type of driver.
