Used Lexus ES 300h for sale near Durham

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 60
Average Price: Around £26,000

Lexus ES (2018-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Comfortable ride	Small boot by class standards
Beautifully finished interior	Fiddly infotainment system
Excellent fuel economy in town	Coarse engine with droning soundtrack

Quick Summary

The Lexus ES is a luxury saloon that replaced the GS in 2018, positioning itself against premium heavyweights like the BMW 5-Series and Audi A6. What sets it apart is that it's exclusively available as a hybrid, offering a distinctive alternative to conventional German rivals. The opulently appointed interior features ribbons of thick, glossy wood and soft leather enveloping the seats, dashboard, and door panels, creating an atmosphere of quality and exclusivity that appeals to those seeking something beyond the obvious choices.

Comfort and efficiency are the ES's greatest strengths. Its soft suspension delivers a relaxed, unruffled motorway cruise with minimal wind and tyre noise, whilst its hybrid system excels in urban driving, where it achieves superior fuel economy compared to diesel rivals. The ES uses a metal timing chain rather than a rubber belt, eliminating concerns about costly replacements. However, the car is hampered by a relatively small 454-litre boot, a fiddly touchpad-operated infotainment system, and a coarse petrol engine that drones during acceleration. It's not a sporty driver's car, and rear seats cannot be folded to increase load space.

Best for: Comfort-focused buyers, those prioritising peace of mind and low running costs, and drivers who spend considerable time in urban environments where the hybrid system shines.

Not ideal for: Those seeking sporty handling, maximum boot space, or intuitive infotainment systems comparable to German rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the ES if: You prioritise comfort and peace of mind, seek excellent fuel economy for urban driving, or want an exclusive alternative to mainstream German luxury saloons.

Consider alternatives if: You require maximum boot space, demand intuitive infotainment, or prioritise sporty handling and performance.

Competitive Position: The Lexus ES occupies a unique position in the luxury saloon market as the only hybrid option in its class. Whilst the BMW 5-Series edges ahead on expert rating and overall appeal, and the Volvo S90 impresses users with its Scandinavian design, the ES offers compelling advantages for those valuing comfort, efficiency, and lower running costs. Its smaller boot and fiddly infotainment system are genuine drawbacks compared to rivals, but for buyers seeking a relaxed cruiser with exceptional urban fuel economy and a beautifully appointed interior, the ES remains a thoughtful and exclusive choice that rewards those willing to look beyond conventional options.

Read our full Lexus ES Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from March 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.