2013 Lexus ES Hybrid Total Car Score Analysis

The 2013 Lexus ES Hybrid doesn't have enough ratings to earn a Valid Total Car Score.  
 
Though the ES has been in the Lexus fold for some 20 years now, 2013 marks the first year the entry luxury sedan has been offered with a hybrid powertrain. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system allows the ES to motivate itself under electric power alone for short distances (and at low speeds), and it brings the sedan’s fuel economy up substantially, from the 24 mpg combined mark Lexus expects from the conventionally powered ES 350 (reviewed separately) to an estimated 39 mpg combined.  
 
And if early reviews are an indication, the hybrid powertrain achieves that efficiency without being a complete slug on the road.  
 
True, the ES 300h is no hot rod, but it isn’t meant to be. With its full complement of standard niceties and a solid, smooth, quiet ride, the 2013 Lexus 300h is aimed at the buyer who wants competent, well-appointed transportation that can stay relatively unscathed by volatile gas prices.

2013 Lexus ES Hybrid Model Line-Up

The 2013 Lexus ES 300h is a four-door five-passenger sedan offered in a single trim level and with a gas/electric hybrid powertrain. (A conventionally powered model, the ES 350, is reviewed separately).  
 
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system joins a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 200 horsepower. As a full hybrid, the 300h comes with an EV mode that allows operation using electricity only at low speeds and over short distances. Power transfer from the engine/motor to the front wheels is handled by a continuously variable transmission (CVT).  
 
Standard equipment found on the ES 300h includes 17-inch alloy wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires, a moonroof, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats, automatic climate control, a backup monitor, push-button start, and an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary and USP inputs.  
 
Among the options available are heated front seats, park assist, a pre-collision and radar cruise control package, luxury and ultra luxury packages (with upgraded cabin materials, sunshades and a power-operated trunk lid) and two audio/navigation upgrade packages, both of which bundle Bluetooth, HD radio and the Entune infotainment system with the enhanced audio equipment.  
 
The EPA has not yet released fuel economy figures for the 2013 Lexus ES 300h, but Lexus estimates the hybrid sedan will return 40 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 39 mpg combined.

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