Lexus ES

CarDekho Verdict

There’s no looking around the fact that the Lexus ES 300h comes at a hefty price premium. While it does offer bragging rights of owning something unique, it falls short of beating its similarly priced European rivals as they feel noticeably more luxurious.

However, buyers in this segment are gradually veering away from diesels, and the ES 300h’s petrol hybrid powertrain is something that’ll guard it from our often confusing regulations. Additionally, the car is easy to drive and will be fuel efficient in the real world. It’s also tremendously comfortable and offers refinement and noise insulation levels no other car in the segment can match. Finally, a major selling point for the ES is the brand that makes it, not just for snob value, but because of the reputation it has developed.

Internationally, Lexus owners have lauded the brand for ensuring a hassle-free ownership experience and of course, reliability. In fact, the ES 300h comes with a 3 year/1,00,000km warranty as standard, with a 5 year/1,50,000km warranty on the hybrid drive (including the petrol engine). That speaks volumes about the brand’s confidence in its cars. Lexus itself admits that it isn’t interested in sales numbers, but ensuring that each customer has an unparalleled ownership period. If done right, THAT will be the ES 300h’s biggest trump card against its rivals.