2018 Lexus ES Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Over the years, the Lexus ES has remained a popular choice among luxury car buyers. Longtime Lexus fans have become accustomed to the midsize sedan’s proven reliability and smooth performance. While ample equipment now comes standard, you can also choose from a long list of premium options. Exceptional build quality makes the 2018 Lexus ES a great alternative to a basic family sedan.

What’s New for 2018?

The automaker’s Enform Safety Connect system now provides 10 years of free service. You will have around-the-clock access to emergency roadside assistance.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Lexus ES – The Pros

1. Among Today’s Most Reliable Vehicles

Like so many other Lexus automobiles, the 2018 Lexus ES proves to be an incredibly sturdy vehicle. Very few luxury sedans offer better long-term reliability. Not only is the Lexus ES dependable, but it is also affordable to maintain. You won’t have to shell out a lot of money on routine services such as oil changes and brake pad replacements.

2. Potent V6 Engine

The 2018 Lexus ES comes standard with a stout V6 engine. It is tuned to develop a hearty 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Although the Lexus ES is not the quickest sedan in the class, it does offer ample performance. When tested, the ES clocked a competitive 0-60 time of around six seconds.

3. Efficient for a Luxury Car

You can expect the 2018 Lexus ES to return fairly good fuel economy. The EPA rates the sedan to deliver 21 mpg in town and 30 mpg on the highway. Furthermore, you won’t have to pay extra for premium fuel. This is a key advantage for the drivers who love to travel.

4. Very Relaxing Ride

If you are looking for a smooth-riding luxury sedan, the 2018 Lexus ES is right up your alley. Lexus tuned its suspension to deliver the softest possible ride. It makes even the roughest streets feel smooth. While the Lexus ES is not noted for its sporty driving dynamics, it does feel remarkably stable on the road.

5. Looks Bolder Than Previous Generations

In the past, most people would describe the Lexus ES as being a rather bland-looking sedan. Boasting a modern spindle grille and eye-catching taillights, the new ES looks bolder than ever before. Sporty exhaust outlets further enhance the sedan’s more athletic appearance. A set of High Gloss 18-inch wheels are available as an option.

6. Premium Interior Design

As soon as you step inside the new ES, you will notice its excellent craftsmanship. From the dashboard to the seats, every aspect of the cabin exhibits superior quality. While even the standard upholstery feels plush, optional leather gives the interior an especially expensive look. A wood steering wheel is available as well.

7. High Level of Passenger Comfort

All of your family and friends will enjoy lounging in the 2018 Lexus ES. It provides a class-leading amount of passenger room. Even when sitting in the back, six-footers will have ample space to stretch their legs. This sedan also gets high marks for its outstanding seat comfort. Available as an option, the driver’s seat cushion extender will provide more relaxation on long road trips.

8. Value-Packed Luxury Sedan

With a starting price of around $40,000, the new 2018 Lexus ES proves to be a splendid value. It undercuts some competitors by thousands of dollars. Despite its lower price tag, the ES does not sacrifice a bit of quality. Some of the key standard features include a touch-screen infotainment system, a sunroof, and satellite radio.

9. Intuitive Safety Technologies

Chosen as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, the 2018 Lexus ES will keep your family secure on an everyday basis. Several intuitive safety features now come standard. When traveling on the highway, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control constantly monitors the vehicle ahead of you. Meanwhile, the sedan’s pre-collision feature prepares you to take action during emergency situations. You will also benefit from lane departure intervention.

10. Mark Levinson Sound system

Most people will be content with the standard sound system. However, serious music lovers should check out the Mark Levinson system. An 835-watt amplifier enables it to deliver amazing sound quality. This system boasts a total of 12 premium speakers, which enables you to hear every musical note.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Lexus ES – The Cons

1. Not As Sporty As Some Rivals

While the 2018 Lexus ES excels as a highway cruiser, it is a step behind the competition in terms of handling. Unlike midsize luxury sedans like the Cadillac CTS, the Lexus ES does not offer a sports-tuned suspension or a more powerful engine. This could be an issue for the drivers who are seeking exhilarating performance.

2. All-Wheel Drive Not Offered

All versions of the new ES feature a front-wheel-drive setup. You can expect the sedan to maintain good traction in most conditions, including rainy weather. However, an AWD system would make the ES a more capable winter vehicle.

3. Infotainment Controller Can Be Frustrating

The infotainment system comes standard with a console-mounted controller. Although this feature may seem convenient, it actually makes the interface more frustrating. When using the controller, your attention will be taken away from the task of driving. Some drivers have also complained about the system’s sensitivity.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

Some of the primary competitors include the 2018 BMW 5 Series and the 2018 Cadillac CTS. While the BMW 5 Series has a high rating, it starting price of $52,000 makes it less of a value. In regard to reliability, the Lexus ES easily outshines both of these rival luxury sedans.

Conclusion:

For good reason, the Lexus ES is the best-selling sedan in the automaker’s lineup. Although the Lexus ES does not offer class-leading driving excitement, it has received high marks in virtually every other important category. As usual, long-term reliability remains a strong point for the ES. Sophisticated exterior styling gives you another reason to consider buying the new ES.