2019 Lexus ES Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

Always known for its long-term reliability, the Lexus ES has been fully redesigned for 2019. It's been transformed into a far more exciting midsize luxury sedan. Not only does the latest ES deliver an improved driving experience, but it also comes loaded with a number of upgraded technologies. Meanwhile, an extended wheelbase enables the sedan to provide even more passenger room than before. This is a perfect car for business trips and everyday commuting. More intriguing exterior styling gives you another reason to consider the all-new 2019 Lexus ES.

Thankfully, Lexus didn't drastically increase the price of the new ES. Let's see what separates one ES trim from the next.

Compare the 2019 Lexus ES Base vs Luxury Trims. What is the difference?

With a starting price of less than $40,000, the base Lexus ES is a great upgrade from a regular midsize family sedan. Superior craftsmanship and attractive standard features make it a great choice. While last year's V6 engine still rests under the hood, Lexus reworked it to develop 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. A new eight-speed automatic transmission helps improve efficiency and responsiveness. According to the EPA, drivers can expect to average 22 mpg in town and 33 mpg on the highway. Front-wheel drive comes standard on every new 2019 Lexus ES.

In comparison to the previous generation, the 2019 Lexus ES has a far more striking appearance. Even the base ES has a lot of style. LED headlights with automatic high-beam assist and 17-inch alloy wheels come standard. Of course, everyone will notice Lexus' signature spindle grille. On the rear, integrated exhaust outlets give the ES a bit more pizzazz. You'll have 10 exterior colors to pick from, including Sunlit Green and Matador Red Mica.

As always, the base Lexus ES welcomes you to a high-quality interior. Although leather upholstery does not come standard, Lexus' NuLuxe material has a reputation for being incredibly durable. Meanwhile, dual-zone automatic climate control with a smog sensor helps keep pollutants outside. A power-adjustable driver's seat and a panoramic sunroof also come standard.

If you desire a bit more luxury, a Premium package is available for an extra $1,175. Heated/ventilated front seats and a driver-seat cushion extender help you to experience greater comfort. Rain-sensing wipers and a power-adjustable steering wheel are also included in the Premium package.

A compelling list of high-tech goodies makes the base Lexus ES more appealing. When commuting on a day-to-day basis, the built-in Wi-Fi hot spot is a feature you'll especially appreciate. A 10-speaker sound system with satellite radio provides a source of entertainment. Meanwhile, Lexus Enform Remote enables you to start the engine and adjust the climate setting via your smartphone. Some of the other electronics include three USB ports, Bluetooth, a Scout GPS Link navigation app, and an 8.0-inch infotainment display.

There are some worthwhile options available for the base Lexus ES. Drivers who do a great deal of traveling will enjoy the voice-activated navigation system. It features a larger 12.3-inch display with Apple CarPlay. Music fanatics should definitely sample the optional Mark Levinson audio system, which sounds especially powerful. Meanwhile, a color head-up display helps eliminate driving distractions. Wireless smartphone charging is also available as a stand-alone option.

Like most new Lexus vehicles, the base ES comes standard with an advanced safety package. While forward collision mitigation triggers your brakes during panic situations, lane-keep assist helps nudges you back across the line. Dynamic cruise control and parking sensors also promote a safe journey. In the event of a troubling situation, a Lexus Enform emergency communications system enables you to easily call for help. Offered as an option, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is definitely a safety upgrade worth considering. A panoramic-view parking camera is available as well.

Priced at around $42,255, the Luxury trim is another step up the ladder. It mainly adds interior upgrades. Leather upholstery and wood accents give the cabin a more upscale appearance. Noise-reducing side windows help ensure a quieter ride. Other highlights include heated mirrors and ambient interior lighting.

Remember, the Luxury trim comes equipped with the same V6 engine. It also looks virtually identical to the base model.

Compare the 2019 ES Luxury vs Ultra Luxury Trims. What is the difference?

The Ultra Luxury trim has an appropriate name. Although this trim may cost $43,250, it's likely an even better buy than the ES Luxury. Upgraded semi-aniline leather seats deck out the interior. When loading cargo, a hands-free trunk release eliminates the need to press any buttons. Your passengers will also enjoy the powered rear sunshade.

While the Ultra Luxury trim comes equipped with the same engine, it does benefit from an upgraded suspension system. Performance dampers help the sedan to stay balanced around corners.

Compare the ES Ultra Luxury vs F Sport Trims. What is the difference?

Drivers who seek a better blend of performance and luxury will be drawn to the F Sport trim. Although ES F Sport doesn't pack more power under the hood, it's engineered to offer sharper handling. A stiffer F Sport suspension and 19-inch performance tires give the sedan a more athletic character on the road. Drive Mode Select enables you to choose from five driving modes: ECO, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+ & Custom. Adaptive suspension dampers are optional.

The Lexus ES F Sport clearly looks more aggressive than the other trims. It adorns a unique mesh grille and a rear spoiler. An exclusive set of 19-inch alloy wheels give the ES F Sport a more commanding stance. While fewer paint colors are available for the ES F Sport, only it offers Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 and Ultra White.

To further inspire driving enthusiasts, Lexus gives the F Sport trim's interior some race-inspired touches. The red sport seats with heating and ventilation will immediately catch your eye. High-performance digital gauges elevate the level of driving excitement. Aluminum pedals and a classy analog clock also help set apart the F Sport trim. Available as an option, the thick sport steering wheel enables you to maintain a tight grip when cornering.

Compare the ES F Sport vs ES 300h Trims. What is the difference?

The 300h is a hybrid version of the 2019 Lexus ES. In regard to exterior styling, there are not any big differences between these models. Although Lexus does not offer a F Sport trim for the ES 300h, the other three trims are available. All of the same safety technologies are offered.

The biggest thing that separates the ES 300h is its hybrid powertrain, which combines a four-cylinder engine with a small electric motor. Lexus rates the ES 300h to develop a total of 215 horsepower. Although the ES 300h may not accelerate as quickly as the V6-powered models, it will reward you with fuel savings. Anticipate getting a combined 44 mpg on regular unleaded gas.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a value-packed luxury sedan, the base Lexus ES will be an outstanding choice. Like the upper trims, it benefits from a powerful V6 engine. You'll also appreciate the sedan's more dynamic exterior styling. No longer will the base ES get lost in the crowd. Many test drivers will also be surprised by the quality of the base model's interior.

Lexus doesn't require you to pay extra for popular features like a Wi-Fi hot spot and remote climate control. The standard safety package is another nice perk. Of the available options, blind-spot monitoring and the color head-up display are the most beneficial.

While the Luxury trim may pack some interior upgrades, it's not a big jump from the base ES. Your money will be better spent on the ES Ultra Luxury.

If you are seeking more fun while behind the wheel, the ES F Sport will not leave you disappointed. You'll appreciate its sports-calibrated suspension and stickier performance tires. A more aggressive look also makes the ES F Sport appealing to driving enthusiasts. Critics applaud this trim for its well-bolstered sport seats. Remember, adding options like the Mark Levinson premium sound system will cause you to spend more money.

Eco-friendly drivers who prefer fuel savings over power will enjoy the ES 300h. The hybrid powertrain's smooth operation will likely leave you impressed. Prices start at a reasonable $41,410.

Key Features of the 2019 Lexus ES

Most people will enjoy listening to the standard 10-speaker stereo system. It sounds quite good for a base audio system. However, the optional 1,800-watt Mark Levinson audio system is magnificent. It surrounds the cabin with a total of 17 premium speakers. Be prepared to spend an extra $2,900.

Most testers have found Lexus' new touchpad interface to be easier to operate. However, its menu structure can be a bit confusing. While the optional 12.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay is very nice, consider its cost before buying.

A standard safety package rewards every driver with an extra sense of security. Although the blind-spot monitor is an additional expense, it promises to give you more protection on the highway. Most drivers can live without the panoramic parking camera, which is a costly upgrade.