Lexus ES vs. Lexus GS

Automotive Editor

Justin Cupler has specialized as an automotive writer since 2009 and has been published in multiple websites and online magazines. In addition to contributing to CarsDirect, Justin also hosts a web-series car-review show and dabbles in the world of personal-finance writing.

His specialty is in the high-performance realm, but he has a deep love and understanding for all things automotive. Before diving into the world of writing, Justin was an automotive technician and manager for six years and spent the majority of his younger life tinkering with classic muscle cars.

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, Automotive Editor - March 2, 2020

Buyers seeking a luxury sedan not named BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi will find plenty of alternatives in Lexus showrooms. In its robust lineup, Lexus offers two models in the midsize class: the Lexus ES and the Lexus GS.

While they fall in the same class, there are stark differences that set them apart. Find out which is the better luxury sedan below.

See a side-by-side comparison of the ES & GS »

What the ES Gets Right

At $40,925, the Lexus ES gets a big head start, as it's $11,495 cheaper than the GS. The ES also boasts family-friendly rear seats that offer 39.2 inches of legroom, which beats the GS by 2.4 inches.

The 2020 Lexus ES is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus thanks to its “Good” ratings in all the crash tests, “Good”-rated optional headlights, and a “Superior”-rated front-crash-prevention system. The GS hasn't been through all the IIHS tests, so it didn't qualify for a designation.

While the ES falls short with its smaller standard infotainment screen compared to the GS, the infotainment system is more robust. It's not only easier to use, but it also has standard Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay, which the GS doesn't offer. It also has three USB ports, which is one more than the GS.

Fuel economy also falls firmly in the Lexus ES’ win column with its standard 3.5-liter V6 delivering an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon city, 32 mpg highway, and 26 combined. This beats the GS with its standard V6 by two mpg city, four highway, and three combined. Opt for the ES 300h hybrid, and its fuel economy skyrockets to 43/44/44 mpg (city/highway/combined).

What the GS Gets Right

The Lexus GS starts off with a more aggressive look that better suits those seeking a sport sedan. Also, with its standard rear-wheel drive, it also handles more like a sport sedan. Buyers in the snow belt will also appreciate the GS’ optional all-wheel drive.

Speaking of sportiness, the GS F offers a 467-horsepower V8 engine that delivers impressive straight-speed that the ES can’t match. This performance sedan also offers a tighter suspension, rear-wheel steering, a limited-slip differential, and variable-ratio steering to enhance its agility.

Inside, the GS comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, which is 4.3 inches larger than the ES’ standard 8-inch screen. It also comes standard with real leather upholstery, while the ES features standard leatherette.

Performance Lovers Will Prefer the GS

Despite more upscale features, the Lexus GS isn't quite the luxury car the ES is due to its age. That said, the GS F offers the pop that performance lovers seek, and the ES offers nothing close to it.

Our Verdict: Lexus ES

As a luxury sedan, the Lexus ES is a superior offering. Not only is it roomier on the inside, but it also offers more advanced tech, a quieter interior, better fuel efficiency, and a more composed ride. On top of all that, the ES is significantly cheaper than the GS.

Take a closer look at the ES »

Take a closer look at the GS »

Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, photos and more!