The 2023 Lexus ES fits in the middle of the Lexus sedan lineup, below the more expensive LS and above the less posh IS models. If you’re interested in a new Lexus ES, you’ll find enough options to achieve the perfect blend of luxury and performance. However, with 14 Lexus ES trims available, picking one can become confusing. So let’s break down the options and narrow them down to the best one.

2023 Lexus ES 250 AWD

The 2023 Lexus ES 250 AWD trim includes four distinct variants and starting prices:

• ES 250 AWD – $42,490
• ES 250 Luxury AWD – $47,660
• ES 250 Ultra Luxury AWD – $51,280
• ES 250 F Sport Design AWD – $47,075

Featuring all-wheel drive and powered by a 203-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the 2023 Lexus ES 250 AWD is a safe, comfortable luxury sedan. Safety includes the standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 and 10-way power front seats with power lumbar support covered in perforated “NuLuxe” synthetic leather and dual-zone automatic climate control add to the comfort. 

The optional Premium Package adds “heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt/telescoping heated leather steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, and rear emergency braking” to the base trim but comes standard on ES 250 Luxury AWD and higher trims, according to Autotrader.

The ES Luxury 250 AWD and the Ultra Luxury upgrades include features such as a 14-way power driver’s seat upholstered in “quilted semi-aniline leather,” upgraded shock absorbers, interior wood trim, and additional driver assist safety features. Finally, the ES 250 F Sport Design AWD includes the Premium Package, a restyled front bumper and grille, “a rear spoiler, and 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels.” 

2023 Lexus ES 350

The 2023 Lexus ES 350 offers similar variations and prices and adds another level. 

• ES 350 – $42,490
• ES 350 Luxury – $47,660
• ES 350 Ultra Luxury – $51,280
• ES 350 F Sport Design – $47,075
• ES 350 F Sport Handling – $48,950

While the ES 350 does not offer AWD, its 3.5-liter V6 delivers 302 horsepower, substantially increasing the ES 250 AWD’s power output. Nearly everything else is identical between the two models, “except for an available Panorama glass roof” and the addition of the F Sport Handling version. 

The 2023 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Handling variant starts with the F Sport Design’s cosmetic upgrades, then adds “performance shock absorbers, additional drive mode settings for Sport S/S+, and a Sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension.”

2023 Lexus ES 300H

Similar to the recurring theme amongst these 14 trim variants, the 2023 Lexus ES 300H offers trim levels and packages identical to the ES 350 but with a hybrid powertrain and higher prices.

• ES 300H – $43,690
• ES 300H Luxury – $48,860
• ES 300H Ultra Luxury – $52,480
• ES 300H F Sport Design – $48,075
• ES 300H F Sport Handling – $49,985

A 2.5-liter gas engine paired with dual electric motors provides 215 horsepower and “superior fuel economy.” The ES 300H offers the same features as other ES trims except for the Panorama glass roof. In addition, the ES 300H has a “unique instrument cluster” for monitoring the hybrid system, “a standard rear spoiler, and a concealed exhaust,” reports Autotrader.

Which is the best new Lexus ES trim to buy in 2023?

The best trim for those that drive on slick roads is likely the ES 250 Luxury AWD which includes all-wheel drive and some upgrades for handling and comfort. Performance-minded drivers will enjoy the ES 350 F Sport Handling version with its powerful V6 engine and enhanced handling characteristics. Finally, those desiring a comfortable driving experience with precise handling and improved fuel economy should opt for the ES 300H Luxury or Ultra Luxury version.