Used hybrids don’t always have the best reputation, but some models break that stereotype entirely, and one five-year-old option stands out for delivering reliability that rivals, and often surpasses, many brand-new cars. At a time when buyers worry about expensive battery replacements or complex drivetrains, this hybrid’s track record shows that not all electrified vehicles come with added risk. For value-focused shoppers, that makes it one of the smartest used purchases on the market.
What makes this particular hybrid so dependable is its combination of proven engineering, conservative battery technology, and a drivetrain that has already shown it can handle well over 150,000 miles with minimal issues. While new cars continue to rise in price, and sometimes launch with untested components, this five-year-old model has already demonstrated consistency where it matters: low repair frequency, affordable maintenance, and excellent real-world fuel economy.
We break down why this hybrid has become a standout in the used market, how it stays so trouble-free, and why buyers looking for both efficiency and peace of mind should strongly consider it over a brand-new alternative.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA, J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, CarEdge, and RepairPal.
Fast, refined, and rock-solid: this SUV does it all.
There are few automakers out there that do consistent reliability as well as Lexus, if any. The Japanese brand has built its reputation on longevity and low running costs. If you’re looking for an affordable luxury car that you’re not going to have to constantly throw money at, Lexus is the way to go. The ES is the brand’s midsize sedan, and owners consistently praise it for its ability to keep running no matter what you throw at it.
Lexus has struck the perfect balance of designing contemporary cars while continuing to use solid parts throughout their entire lineup. This strategy has allowed them to achieve consistent reliability across their brand. Consumer Reports has named them the second most reliable brand you can buy from in 2025, but they often achieve first place. The 2021 ES 300h, in particular, managed a whopping score of 87/100 for quality and reliability, which is more than just about any modern luxury sedan.
Absolutely the best luxury and MPG you will find. Hated to trade in our RX350, but gas is too expensive. The power and handling will surprise you every time you turn to Sport Mode. If you are thinking about a hybrid, it is worth the money for this type of reliability.
Cars.com
There are few owners who find anything to complain about when it comes to the reliability of the ES 300h. Owners on Cars.com awarded the hybrid five stars out of five for reliability. In fact, there is no model from this generation of ES that has been scored lower than five out of five.
Recalls are pretty rare for Lexus, with most of their models hitting the road with very few issues that need to be fixed. The 2021 ES 300h, however, has been recalled once. It was for a faulty occupant sensor. Ensure that the used model you’re looking at has had this issue fixed.
In terms of long-term maintenance, Lexus’ hybrid sedan is pretty worry-free. CarEdge estimates that you’ll spend $3,738 less maintaining your ES 300h over ten years than you would the average luxury sedan. Long-term maintenance costs are comparable to mainstream sedans. They also estimate that there is only a 15 percent chance that any individual repair during that time will cost more than $500.
Toyota, Honda, and Lexus are compared head-to-head to see which sedan leads in reliability.
In general, Lexus’ hold their value pretty well. Despite this, you can still grab yourself a five-year-old ES for the price of a new Camry. Instead of riding around in a mainstream sedan, you can gain access to luxurious tech and plush materials. Because it’s so reliable, you also shouldn’t have to worry about the fact that it’s used, as long as it has been taken care of.
Model
Average list price
300h Base
$29,646
300h Luxury
$31,879
300h Ultra Luxury
$36,154
When it first went on sale, the 2021 ES 300h would have cost you anywhere between $42,895 and $51,985 depending on the trim you opted for. This means that you’re saving yourself over $15,000 on average by opting for a used model.
Of the three trims you can choose from, there really isn’t a bad deal to be had. We would, however, skip the Base trim, as the Luxury adds some meaningful equipment and doesn’t cost all that much more. For the best value, though, we would opt for the Ultra Luxury trim. For $36,000, you’re getting yourself a plush sedan with quilted semi-aniline leather upholstery, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, and an adaptive suspension system.
You don’t need a big budget to drive this sports car that rarely needs repairs.
Many luxury automakers try to find a balance between sportiness and comfort with their mid-size sedans. However, this often leads to a ton of compromise in both departments. While the ES may not be as exciting as some of its direct competition, there is no denying that it does luxury incredibly well. On top of this, its hybrid powertrain is guaranteed to save you tons on fuel.
Engine
2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four (Hybrid)
Transmission
CVT
Horsepower
215 hp
Torque
163 lb-ft
Driveline
FWD
0-60 MPH
8.3 seconds
Fuel economy (City)
43 MPG
Fuel economy (Highway)
44 MPG
Fuel economy (Combined)
44 MPG
Every 2021 ES 300h comes equipped with a stoic four-cylinder engine that has a proven track record across a number of Lexus models over the years. A continuously variable transmission is the only option here, as is front-wheel drive. It may not be the quickest sedan in its segment, but there is no denying that it delivers an incredibly smooth ride and it is very composed through corners. The optional adaptive suspension also works fantastically.
As far as hybrids go, the ES 300h is one of the most efficient models on the market. There are no hybrid luxury sedans that deliver better fuel efficiency. There are only a handful of small mainstream sedans that manage a few extra miles per gallon. The EPA estimates that you’ll save $2,750 on gas over five years compared to the average new car.
This Japanese hybrid crossover stands out in 2025 with unbeatable reliability, fuel efficiency, and value, making it a top choice for buyers.
If comfort is more important to you than performance, then the ES definitely won’t disappoint. Even new, Lexus manages to pack in more standard features than you’d expect for the price that you pay. For a lightly used car that costs the same as a mainstream mid-size sedan, it is hard to beat this kind of value for money.
Front row headroom
37.5 inches
Front row legroom
42.4 inches
Second row headroom
37.4 inches
Second row legroom
39.2 inches
Cargo capacity
16.7 cubic feet
In terms of space on the inside, the ES is one of the more generous mid-size sedans out there. While headroom may be a little lower than some rivals, legroom is on the high end of the segment. Even tall adults will feel plenty comfortable on long journeys, whether they’re sat in the front or the back. Cargo capacity is also more than reasonable. The only downside here is that the rear seats don’t fold down.
The ES 300h delivers an incredibly serene cabin. The Japanese automaker has done a fantastic job of noise insulation, keeping the hustle and bustle of the outside world outside. Fine materials have been used throughout the cabin, with top trims getting things like semi-aniline leather and open-pore wood trim. Power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and ambient interior lighting are all on offer here.
Lexus is all about tech. Base models come equipped with an eight-inch infotainment screen, mounted to the top of the dashboard. Higher trim levels, however, come with a 12.3-inch screen instead. We’d look for models with this option. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features regardless. A ten-speaker sound system is standard, but some models come equipped with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system instead.
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