Lexus ES vs Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The 2022 Lexus ES was a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales, it remained a popular choice among an older demographic, which posed a challenge for Lexus as they aimed to attract younger buyers without alienating their loyal customer base. The ES was built on the Global Architecture-K platform, shared with models like the Lexus RX and Toyota Camry, offering a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with an all-wheel-drive option. Its design featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille, while the interior boasted a layered dashboard and sporty F Sport packaging with two-tone leather seating.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received notable updates, including a new all-wheel-drive option and a power increase for its hybrid system. The exterior design was more appealing than previous generations, with sculpted front-end features and a sporty trapezoidal grille. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid offered a minimalistic design with basic climate controls and adequate interior storage. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the overall materials quality fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. The Corolla Hybrid prioritized efficiency and practicality, making it a suitable choice for those focused on cost-effectiveness.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds. The ES 350 came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a total of 215 horsepower, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds. The ES 300h excelled in fuel efficiency, with ratings of 5.5 L/100 km city, 5.2 hwy, and 5.3 combined.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid retained its 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. The addition of a 40-hp electric motor provided on-demand AWD. The hybrid powertrain offered quick throttle response, but power built slowly, taking around nine seconds to reach 100 km/h. The Corolla Hybrid featured a dedicated EV drive mode for maximum efficiency, though it was challenging to maintain on open roads. Handling was adequate, with consistent braking and a confident feel when driven conservatively.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a generous 394 litres of cargo space, with a pass-through behind the centre armrest for long items. The ES 250 and ES 350 featured flat-folding second-row seats, enhancing cargo capacity. Inside, the ES provided ample storage and convenience features, including heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a moonroof. The interior layout was functional, with a prominent volume knob for the audio system.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid provided ample front space, though long-limbed drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The cockpit's simplicity was approachable, with well-placed steering-wheel buttons and basic climate controls. Interior storage was adequate, with a small plastic tray, cupholders, and a medium-sized centre armrest bin. Rear seats accommodated average adult passengers, offering sufficient headroom and legroom. The trunk capacity was 371 litres, with rear seats folding for additional space, though not flat with the floor.

The 2022 Lexus ES featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 10-speaker Pioneer sound system, and a CD player. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio, and navigation. The ES used a touchpad interface for infotainment, with a 10-inch head-up display available on upper trims. Lexus Enform connected services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid came with an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was quick to respond, with improved voice commands activated by saying, "Hey Toyota." Over-the-air software updates kept the system current, and it could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. However, the JBL audio system available in the U.S. was not offered in Canada.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with pre-collision detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The ES also featured blind-spot monitoring, 10 airbags, and up to 10 years of Lexus Enform Safety Connect service.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating, with four stars for rollover protection. The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite included frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor. The Corolla Hybrid's safety features contributed to its strong safety performance.