Driving Impressions

Without the AVS system, the new ES 300 feels very much like its predecessor--smooth without being mushy, competent but not quite as decisive as some of its sportier rivals, although the stiffer chassis would probably produce slightly quicker times on a slalom course. The one major exception to the foregoing is the variable assist rack and pinion power steering system, which delivers much better road feel than the previous ES 300, a welcome improvement the Lexus shares with the Camry. But with AVS, the ES 300 acquires a little more character--at the driver's discretion, of course. In the sport mode, it's distinctly more decisive in all its maneuvers, without sacrificing an ounce of ride comfort or traditional Lexus strong suits like quiet operation and superb interior appointments. We wouldn't call this car a sport sedan. It's automatic only, and for our money a manual transmission is an essential part of the sport sedan ethos. BMW and Infiniti both offer 5-speed manual transmissions on the 328i and I30, respectively, and shifting for yourself definitely makes the going more fun when fun is the objective. However, automatic transmissions dominate the realm of entry luxury, and the ES 300's four-speed automatic is smoother than most. It also makes the most of the added power of the high-tech aluminum V6, which was one of the best in the business in the previous car and is even better now.

Final Word

The new ES 300 offers a compelling blend of quality, power, all-around competence and creature comforts that's tough to top. Stir in the head-turning incentive of a dramatic price reduction, and you'll see all the other guys asking the same question that we've been asking. How'd they do that?