Leftlane’s bottom line

Looking at the sales figures alone, the ES fills an obvious slot in the market that no other automaker has really chosen to take on. Priced more like the compact IS, the ES is sized like the GS but offers the comfort and convenience now-sporty Cadillac once coveted.

By today’s standards, it is a Japanese Buick, much like its distant Toyota Avalon cousin, albeit sporting a fancier badge and more opulent amenities. But with an impressive redesigned Buick LaCrosse on the horizon, Lexus should take this opportunity to tighten up the ES’ driving characteristics to keep it competitive. The automaker has proven, with the LS, that it can make a car that glides down the road but doesn’t whimper at the sign of a corner or provide the kind of feedback that might turn buyers off of a BMW.

Button this one down for the next-generation model and you’ll remain top dog in the segment, Lexus.

    See also:

    Pricing Notes
    The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) on these mid-size sport sedans reflect their impressive content and capabilities while keeping them competitive and in line with offerings from th ...

    And the inside?
    Like the exterior, the ES’ interior makes neither friends nor enemies. It’s business as usual for Lexus, which means you’ll be treated to acres of glossy wood, sumptuous leather and a generally co ...

    If the electronic key does not operate properly
    If communication between the electronic key and vehicle is interrupted or the electronic key cannot be used because the battery is depleted, the smart access system with push-button start and wirele ...