1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- Acceleration
- Antilock brakes
- Ride/handling
Cons
- Road noise (ES 250)
- Fuel economy
- Automatic-transmission performance (ES 250)
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Toyota made it into the "luxury leagues" in 1990 with the launch of its Lexus division. While the full-size LS 400 received much of the attention, the Lexus showroom also featured an entry-level model, the ES 250. It was a plusher version of the Toyota Camry. Additions to the interior included woodgrain trim and leather seating surfaces. Exterior styling was virtually identical, and so was the powertrain--a 2.5-liter V6 and a choice of either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a driver-side airbag came standard.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Lexus ES 300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Lexus ES:
The junior Lexus returned virtually unchanged for its sophomore season.
1992 Lexus ES:
Replacing the Lexus ES 250 as the company's lower-priced premium sedan is the ES 300. Still based on the Camry, the ES 300 rides on a 103.1-inch wheelbase and is five inches longer. It also comes equipped with a new 24-valve V6, with horsepower going from 156 to 185 and torque rising from 160 to 195 pound-feet. Both manual and automatic transmissions were offered. And despite its undeniable relationship to the Camry, the ES 300 has different suspension and tires, and weighs 200 pounds more.
1993 Lexus ES:
Virtually unchanged for 1993, the only additions to the entry-level Lexus sedan are a fuel-cap tether and automatic-locking safety-belt retractors.
1994 Lexus ES:
For '94 Lexus provides its ES 300 with a new passenger-side airbag, more convenience features, and a revised 3.0-liter engine that delivers an extra three horsepower--up to 188. With the new engine comes the elimination of the available 5-speed manual transmission.
1995 Lexus ES:
Now the most popular model in the Lexus line, the 1995 ES 300 receives minor styling changes at both the front and rear. These include a new front air intake, standard fog lights, new brake/signal lights, and a shift in the position of the ES 300 badge from the below the taillight to the trunklid.
1996 Lexus ES:
The only significant change for 1996 was the midyear introduction of an exclusive "Coach" edition, equipped with highly distinctive leather trim and a matching set of Coach luggage.
Our road test for the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The ES 250 has a comfortable ride, soaking up bumps with little notice. It also tends to display good control and stability at high speed, while the standard antilock brakes provide strong, safe stops with good control. Tire whine and road noise are intrusive, however. The ES 250 also provides a bright, airy interior with tall windows, which give the driver excellent visibility, though it's hard to see the trunk while backing up. Leg room is generous both front and back, but head room is about average. More-distinctive styling and a 3.0-liter V6 gave the rebadged ES 300 both the extra size and power it needed. The 300 provides outstanding responsiveness and handling. The same smooth and quiet ride that has become a Lexus hallmark is quite evident in the ES 300. However, body roll is noticeable and the steering is on the light side. While not quite up to full European standards in the suspension or steering departments, the ride and handling should not be an issue with most buyers. Except in straight highway driving, we got under 20 mpg in an ES 300, which demands premium fuel. On the plus side, the ES 300 offers more passenger space than its compact external dimensions suggest. Leg room and head room are generous, even with the optional sunroof. Drivers enjoy a comfortably upright stance ahead of a tilt steering wheel and an attractive, well-arranged dashboard that mimics the panel design of the big LS 400. Some rear-seat space is sacrificed, however, for the sake of trunk room, which is more than adequate.
Value for the Money
Much more than a glorified Camry, the ES 250/300 helped Lexus maintain a solid image in the luxury car market. Particularly in ES 300 form, this Lexus feels and behaves like the costlier, more luxurious automobile that it is.
Much more than a glorified Camry, the ES 250/300 helped Lexus maintain a solid image in the luxury car market. Particularly in ES 300 form, this Lexus feels and behaves like the costlier, more luxurious automobile that it is.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Lexus ES 300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Lexus ES includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Lexus ES .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Climate control:
Because of an intermittent open condition in the temperature-sensor circuit, the ambient-temperature display shows -22 degrees (F) and the climate control misbehaves. The display will not change until the fuse for the air-conditioning control unit is removed briefly. (1990-95)
Dashboard lights:
Due to a problem in the printed circuit, outside temperature reading may report -22F. Removing the fuse for 30 seconds should reset the system. (1995-96)
Engine noise:
If a thumping noise comes from the engine during low speeds, it might require a larger main bearing on the No. 1 journal of the crankshaft. (1991)
Fuel gauge:
If the fuel gauge is inaccurate, a revised gauge will be installed to stabilize the indicator needle. (1990-92)
Transmission leak:
Automatic-transmission fluid may leak from a casting-knock hole or a bolt hole on the A51E transmission. (1994)
Vehicle noise:
A new, self-lubricating stabilizer-bar bushing will be installed if the original rear bushings squeak. (1992-96)
Water pump:
The water-pump seals may leak. (1994-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $905 |
| Alternator | $370 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,410 |
| Brakes | $195 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $670 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $700 |
| Exhaust System | $555 |
| Radiator | $640 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $870 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $190 |
Our price chart for this generation Lexus ES details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| ES 300 | $3,600-4,500 | $2,900-3,600 | $1,000-1,300 |
| 1995 | |||
| ES 300 | $3,000-3,800 | $2,300-2,900 | $700-900 |
| 1994 | |||
| ES 300 | $2,500-3,200 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| 1993 | |||
| ES 300 | $2,100-2,800 | $1,500-2,000 | $400-500 |
| 1992 | |||
| ES 300 | $1,700-2,300 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| 1991 | |||
| ES 250 | $1,400-1,900 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| ES 250 | $1,200-1,700 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Lexus ES include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | ES 250 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 183.1 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.9 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 53.1 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3164 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.9 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.8 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.9 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.6 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.3 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
The Lexus ES 250 made its 1990 debut with a 24-valve, DOHC, fuel-injected V6 engine. This was the optional powerplant for the Toyota Camry, and became the only engine offered in the ES 250. It delivered 156 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 160 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. ES 250 buyers could choose from either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission with standard electronic shift controls. With all-new body styling for the ES 300 in 1992 came a new 24-valve, 3.0-liter DOHC V6 capable of delivering 185 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm, with available manual and automatic transmissions. For the 1994 model year, the cast-iron cylinder block is exchanged for an all-aluminum block, which improved both horsepower and torque ratings slightly, to 188 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 203 pound-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. The ES 300's previously standard 5-speed is dropped in favor of a single transmission--an electronic 4-speed automatic with available "normal" and "power" shift modes. Acceleration from the 1992-1996 models is strong and easy. The automatic matches well with the 3.0-liter V6, shifting smoothly and quietly.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 2.5 / 153 | 156 | 160 | 5-speed manual: 19/26 4-speed automatic: 19/25 |
5-speed manual: 22.7 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 188 | 203 | 4-speed automatic: 18/24 | 4-speed automatic: 19.3 |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 185 | 195 | 5-speed manual: 18/24 4-speed automatic: 18/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 19.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Lexus ES include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1996 ES 300 |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1996 Lexus ES 250/300 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1992:
Secondary hood-latch mechanism could accumulate dust or debris that would keep the latch from engaging properly.
1994-96 ES 300:
Steering-wheel set nut may not have been sufficiently tightened; could result in vibration and looseness in steering wheel, and ultimately separation.
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
