• by Tanya Gazdik , Staff Writer, Yesterday

Lexus has totally embraced big and capable SUVs, but Toyota’s luxury brand hasn’t abandoned the sedan segment, for which I give them big props. 

I recently had the opportunity to test drive two of the division’s models: first, the 2025 ES 350 and most recently, the 2025 LX 700h Overtrail 4WD. I was blown away by the price on the ES 350 — the base is $48,500 and as tested it was $56,850 — but it feels like a vehicle that could easily run $20,000 more. 

Lexus recently unveiled the new ES, and the styling changes the outward appearance of the model significantly. The redesign features a new platform, hybrid and electric powertrain options, and a more modern, futuristic design. The ES 350h, a hybrid model, and the ES 350e and ES 500e, fully electric models, will be offered. 

I really like the current generation and would encourage luxury intenders to take a look before the styling changes.ß I drove it in Matador Red Mica, and it is a real head turner and is well-powered. The 3.5L V6 produces 302 horsepower, but it felt like more. 

The trunk is huge — there is no sacrifice on storage just because it’s a car and not an SUV.

That is unlike the Lexus LX 700h Overtrail 4WD, which has a micro amount of storage with the third row of seats up. 

It is one badass SUV. The 19-inch alloy wheels with 33-inch all-terrain tires might seem like overkill, but if you look at the vehicle’s total capability (including front and rear locking differential, crawl control with turn assist and adaptive variable suspension) you realize the tires are not just for show. I really liked the light brown "earth" exterior color -- it is very elegant. 

Unfortunately, what the ES 350 shows off in affordability, the LX 700h makes up for. The starting price is $114,000 and as equipped, teh vehicle I drove was $118,510. That said, it’s as big as a studio apartment. 

I was a little underwhelmed with some of the interior finishes. The leather trimmed heated steering wheel and cooling box were very high-end, but the simulated wood center console and door accents felt skimpy, especially after spending time in one of  the vehicle’s three-row competitors, the Lincoln Navigator. 

Gas mileage was what you would expect from a huge vehicle — 19 city and 22 highway for a combined 20 mpg. It also takes premium fuel. Despite those minor dings, I’d still recommend it to someone looking for a large and sporty SUV.