Lexus ES Joins The Lexus IS In Engine Downsizing

It sounds like Lexus ES is saying goodbye to the V-6. Here's what drivetrain options you can expect for 2025 and onwards.

Lexus ES is one of the first models of Toyota's luxury arm, having debuted shortly after the Lexus LS400 – the luxury brand's first model ever. Although the ES was never geared towards excitement for driving, it always featured a V-6 engine. For 2025, however, things are about to change, as the Lexus ES will no longer feature the 2GR-FSE V-6 engine.

This is, actually, similar to what Lexus is doing with the IS engine options, although the rear-wheel-drive, Japanese sedan will still keep the exciting V-8 option since Toyota has interesting plans for it. Here's what we know so far. 

No more V-6 after 2024

The first sign that the V-6-powered Lexus ES is going away is the latest trademarks made by Lexus. We see designations like 350h, but also 350e and 500e, both of which will be fully electric.  

The ES350h will feature Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid powertrains. The system will revolve around the 2.5-liter, Dynamic Force inline-four engine that we know from the Camry and the RAV4. Speaking of, the 2025 RAV4 will arrive as a hybrid-only SUV, with punchier powertrains.

The Lexus ES follows suit. For the ES350h, we are talking about 232 horsepower and 163 pound-feet, similar to the one in Toyota Crown, and the upcoming Toyota RAV4. The two electric motors provide an additional 149 and 89 pound-feet respectively albeit those numbers can jump up.  

A possible "Prime” variant could also be in the works, but at this point, it is not confirmed that a Lexus ES with a potent plug-in hybrid setup is in the works. It's too early to talk about exact performance figures, but the less powerful EV variants of the ES should be capable of 300 miles of range.

A fully-electric Lexus ES was, actually, teased back in 2021, when Toyota and Lexus unveiled the largest collection of concept cars, so a fully-electric Lexus ES was to be expected. I am fairly certain some of these fully electric powertrains will make it on the soon-to-be-revived Toyota FJ Cruiser. 

The Lexus problem 

Toyota's luxury arm has always enjoyed great success, and in 2023, Lexus saw a 32-percent growth in sales. That said, now more than ever, the question remains: Should you buy a Lexus over Toyota? With the V-6 engine going away, the ES is becoming closer to the Camry in terms of specs. Sure, you still get a better interior and a slightly softer ride, but even so, Toyota Camry still represents exceptional value for money. This is especially true when considering the 2025 Lexus ES will start at $43,190 versus the Camry's $28,400 starting MSRP.  

By 2030, Lexus is said to have a fully electric variant of each of its existing models, but I don't think the initial goal of becoming an EV-only brand by 2035 will happen. Would you buy the 2025 Lexus ES without the V-6 option, given the Camry is almost as good for a lot less money? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below. 

About the author

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.

Image source: 2025 Lexus ES