Lexus ES Vs. Lexus IS: Which Lexus Sedan Is Right For You?
Lexus IS vs. ES at a Glance
- The Lexus IS and ES are two luxurious, high-performing sedans.
- The Lexus IS is a compact sport sedan with a powerful V-6 engine.
- The midsize Lexus ES delivers efficiency and capability with hybrid and all-electric powertrains.
- Choose the IS to introduce some fun into your daily drive, and the ES for its smooth acceleration, spacious cabin, and premium features.
Choose between compact thrills and high-tech midsize luxury in Greenwich, CT, with our 2027 Lexus IS vs. ES comparison guide. This informative overview from DARCARS Lexus of Greenwich covers size, performance, features, and trims to help you make a confident buying decision. Learn all the essentials before stopping by our showroom for your test drive!
Lexus Sedan Comparison: IS vs. ES Overview
| Lexus ES | Lexus IS | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine |
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3.5L V-6 |
| Horsepower | 221-338 | 311 |
| Torque | 173-323 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain |
|
|
| Fastest 0-60 mph | 5.1 sec (500e AWD) | 5.9 sec (350 RWD) |
| Dimensions (L / W / H) | 202.4 / 75.6 / 61.2 in | 185.8 / 72.4 / 56.5 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd Row) | 41.9 / 40.7 in | 44.8 / 32.2 in |
| Cargo Volume | 13.3 cu ft | 10.8 cu ft |
| Configurations |
|
|
| Standard Features |
|
|
2027 Lexus ES vs. Lexus IS Trims
When it comes to the' Lexus ES trim levels, there are eight configurations to browse through, ranging from the entry-level Lexus 350e Premium to the top-charted Lexus 500e Luxury.
Moving onto the Lexus IS, you'll spot six rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions of the F SPORT Design, F SPORT, and F SPORT Special Appearance Package trims. We'll be happy to give you a tour of any of these models in our showroom for a closer inspection!
Dimensions: Is the Lexus ES Bigger Than the IS?
When looking at overall dimensions, the Lexus ES is considerably larger than the compact Lexus IS. The ES measures 202.4 inches long, 75.6 inches wide, and 61.2 inches tall. The IS is a smaller sedan, coming in at 185.8 inches long, 72.4 inches wide, and 56.5 inches high.
This carries over to both interior space and cargo volume as well, with the ES offering more trunk space at 13.3 cubic feet versus the 10.8 cubic feet found in the IS. Rear legroom in the ES is 40.7 inches, whereas the IS has 10.8 cubic feet. However, the Lexus IS does have a little more front legroom, with 44.8 inches next to 41.9 inches in the Lexus ES.
Performance: ES Electric and Hybrid vs. IS Gas
In the area of performance and engine specs, the Lexus IS has a single powertrain option, which is a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This sporty compact comes with a standard rear-wheel-drive layout that can take it from zero to 60 mph in a quick 5.9 seconds. There is also an available all-wheel-drive system, with a similar Lexus IS 0-60 mph performance of 6.0 seconds.
The Lexus ES has three powertrain options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, a single-motor electric power unit, and a dual-motor electric power unit. Both the hybrid and all-electric models come with front-wheel-drive layouts as well as available all-wheel drive. If you're comparing the Lexus IS 350 vs. ES 350h for power and performance, ES 350h models have slightly less horsepower and acceleration, with 244 net combined horsepower and a 7.1-second 0-60 mph time for the all-wheel-drive version.
The all-electric Lexus ES 350e has a total system output of 221 horsepower, while the 500e offers the highest rating across this comparison, with 338 horsepower. The Lexus 500e is also the fastest in a straight line, with an impressive 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds.
Lexus ES vs. IS Tech and Interior Features
When comparing the interior of ES versus IS Lexus models, both luxury sedans come well equipped with all the amenities and technology discerning modern drivers in Greenwich, CT, are looking for.
Standard amenities on the Lexus IS include wireless charging, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. All models also come with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, among other advanced capabilities.
The ES comes with many of these same features while providing some notable upgrades such as a larger 14-inch touchscreen and a new 12.3-inch driver multi-information display. Drivers can also benefit from the newer Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which includes the latest updates to this advanced suite of assistance technology.
ES vs. IS Lexus Sedans: Which Should You Choose?
The Lexus ES and Lexus IS are two luxurious and reliable sedans with plenty of perks to enjoy. The right one for you will come down to what you're seeking in your next vehicle and how it suits your daily needs:
- Pick the Lexus IS for a nimble and fun compact sedan that delivers consistent performance across the lineup.
- Choose the Lexus ES for a powerful midsize sedan with hybrid and electric efficiency, plus a roomy interior and premium upgrades.
Once you've spotted the Lexus sedan that speaks to you, check out these Lexus ES lease deals or Lexus IS lease deals for appealing incentives that can put you in the driver's seat of your favorite model.
Test-Drive the Lexus ES and IS at DARCARS Lexus of Greenwich
To reach your final verdict, visit DARCARS Lexus of Greenwich to compare the Lexus ES and Lexus IS models in person. We'll be glad to show you all the features and capabilities of both before you take the wheel for a test drive. Contact us today to make your appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Lexus ES and IS?
The primary difference between Lexus IS and ES sedans is their size and powertrain configuration. The IS is a V-6 rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive compact sport sedan, while the ES is a front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive hybrid and electric midsize luxury sedan. See both models and take them for a test drive to find out which one fits your driving preferences.
Is the Lexus ES bigger than the IS?
Yes. As a midsize sedan, the Lexus ES has larger overall dimensions than the compact Lexus IS. If you prioritize interior space, cargo volume, and a longer wheelbase, the Lexus ES is likely the right car for you. One of our associates can provide a full overview of the exterior and interior features of this model.
Which has more power, the ES or IS?
In terms of overall system power, the sedan with the highest rating is the all-electric Lexus ES 500e, which produces 338 horsepower. In comparison, the 3.5-liter V-6 in all configurations of the Lexus IS produces 311 horsepower. We'll be happy to let you get behind the wheel to experience either of these powerful, fun-to-drive luxury sedans.