The Lexus ES 250 vs. Lexus ES 350
If you didn't know the ES 250 and ES 350 are no longer available new. The ES line now consists of the ES 350h, ES 350e and ES 500e. The final all gas ES model was last made in 2025. If you are interested in the ES 250 and ES 350, check our used inventory or continue reading below to learn about those great ES models.
The 2021 Lexus ES 250 joins one of Lexus's best-selling midsized sedan lines, the Lexus ES, as a addition this year. As you may already know, the Lexus ES includes superb build quality, a quiet ride, plenty of oomph and spectacular resale value. But in the case of sibling rivalries, the Lexus ES 250 wants to "bring it" to its brother, the Lexus ES 350. All siblings will, from time to time, have family feuds. How does the ES 250 make it a fair fight?
That's a great question. And the answer is: How about all-wheel-drive?
As part of the ES lineup, the ES 250 helps to expand the brand's offerings. The Lexus ES 250 featured a powertrain with AWD. And once again, it points to the Lexus ethos of the "Constant Pursuit of Perfection."
What is the Lexus ES 250?
As you may be aware, the 2021 Lexus ES lineup received a redesign in 2019. It is now available in several versions, including a regular gasoline-powered ES 350 or a hybrid Lexus ES 300h. There is a version for nearly every buyer, but in this case, we are taking a look at the Lexus ES 250 AWD vs. the Lexus ES 350.
| Lexus ES 250 | Model | Lexus ES 350 |
| 2.5-liter inline-4 cylinder | Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
| 203 hp | Horsepower | 302 hp |
| 184 lb-ft of torque | Torque | 267 lb-ft of torque |
| 8-speed automatic | Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| All-wheel-drive | Drive Wheels | Front-wheel-drive |
| 17-inch or 18-inch | Wheel Size | 17-inch or 18-inch |
| Power steering | Steering | Power steering |
| Yes | Heated Front Seats | Yes |
| Optional | Navigation | Optional |
| 10-speaker. Optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson Audio System | Audio System | 10-speaker. Optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson Audio System |
| Standard | Power Moonroof | Standard |
| Standard | Power Adjustable Front Seats | Standard |
| LED. Optional Intelligent High Beam LED | Lighting Type | LED. Optional Intelligent High Beam LED |
The Lexus ES lineup now features three powertrain choices: the 2.5-liter AWD, the 3.5-liter FWD and the 2.5-liter Hybrid.
How does it look?
Futuristic and fastbacked, the ES body is beautiful from all angles. The stylish shape adds to the appeal and helps cheat the wind, adding fuel efficiency and cost savings. By pushing the wheels far into the corners, designers have been able to extend the wheelbase and increase interior legroom. The look is instantly classic, with the now-familiar Lexus spindle grille.
And what about inside?
The interior of the two Lexus glimmer twins is identical in nearly every way. Start with a pedigreed mix of features, including high-grade leather seating, elegant angles, wood-embellished steering wheel, soft-touch materials and high-technology throughout. Six-footers will find plenty of legroom, including 40-inches in the rear seat, alone.
The in-car entertainment takes a back seat to no one in either version of the Lexus ES models. A center-mounted touchpad controls an available Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system and 12.3-inch display screen. The system allows you to control audio, navigation, cellular and other systems, including Apple CarPlay.
Trunk space in the Lexus ES is shared across the lineup. Regardless of which model you choose, your ES 350, ES 300h or ES 250, your respective trunk will accommodate up to 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
Driving the ES 250 AWD and the ES 350
Behind the wheel of the ES 250 AWD, it will feel every bit like the Lexus ES sedans you have grown to love, except for one thing. It displays supreme grip! Thanks to the AWD system, it can hold the road like a fine grand touring vehicle. More importantly, during bouts of inclement weather, it will continue on, providing grip to the tires that need it most. Seamless in its function, you might not even be aware the system is doing what it's supposed to. And that's keeping you and your loved ones safe.
The ES 350 is a front-wheel-drive vehicle that offers excellence in all types of weather. Whether roads are wet, snowy or more, the FWD configuration puts weight and power over the front wheels, where they offer the most benefit.
On sale now!
It all depends on your needs and style. The Lexus ES 250 AWD and the Lexus 350 FWD are ready for their close-ups today at Napleton's Lexus of Milwaukee. Please contact our Lexus experts for more information and to schedule a test drive today.
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Dealer not responsible for typographical errors. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. All vehicles subject to prior sales. See dealer for details. New car prices include applicable manufacturer incentives available to everyone in lieu of special financing. Plus tax, title & registration fees. MSRP does not necessarily reflect sale price. New car MPGs are EPA’s estimated highway MPGs. New vehicle MPGe/EPA Range Rating are based on EPA Range Rating. Consumers actual mileage will vary. See dealer for copy of limited warranty. Used car prices plus tax, title & registration fees. MPG claims are based on EPA estimated city and highway ratings when vehicle was new. Used vehicle MPGe/EPA Range Rating are based on EPA Range Rating when vehicle was new. Consumers actual mileage will vary. The value of used vehicles varies with mileage, usage and condition. Book values should be considered estimates only.
See also: Toyota Avalon vs Lexus ES