First off, back in 2013 when I test drove this Lexus ES 300h there was a clear distinction in this model versus others. It’s got the feel in size a BMW 3 series with more luxury meat to those bones.

Efficiency and Luxury to the Extremes

However, this hybrid had a powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine. In addition, this Lexus ES 300h test driven was to get a fuel economy of 40 mpg combined. However this was frustrating back when that with all the green lighting using LED bulbs you know?! Meaning it seems reasonable to assume an efficient use of gas.

So now it’s all LED lighting because they are more efficient than any other type of lighting.

In addition, the test drive was expected to earn an EPA fuel economy rating of approximately 40 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 40 mpg combined.

The ES 300h generates 200 total system horsepower and I did get about an average 45 mpg; at once I even got 53 mpg. This is in Eco mode driving around town. Most of the time in ECO expect 45 MPG.

That’s how the Green Living Guy does his test drives!

However, I did wish it could go more than 50 mpg! So Maybe future models can get there. Hint: there was more than enough trunk space to add more batteries.

The Lexus 300h Hybrid Electric car was very efficient for its size. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine.

The Lexus ES 300h featured a Drive Mode selector for Eco, normal and sport. The vehicle changes from the hybrid power monitor to a tachometer. The ES 300h adds an EV mode which allows short distance drives, at reduced speed, using only the power from the hybrid battery pack.

As well, the ES 300h is capable of delivering decent fuel efficiency for a luxury model. It’s very responsive performance and minimal emissions for an smaller high end sedan.

Therefore this new, fourth-generation Hybrid Drive System couples an ultra-efficient, Atkinson cycle 2.5-liter. A four-cylinder gas engine with a lighter, more compact, more power dense electric motor. Plus and more noteworthy a self-charging hybrid system. Together they deliver a combined 215 total system horsepower and class-leading EPA mileage numbers of 43 mpg city, 45 mpg highway and 44 mpg combined. So nothing has changed except the interior here.

However, according to my friends at US News:

In conclusion, the 2019 Lexus ES Hybrid is fully redesigned for 2019, with more power, better handling, and a full suite of advanced safety features. It is largely an excellent car, but it ranks in the middle of the luxury midsize car class thanks to its frustrating infotainment system and the presence of more well-rounded rivals.