Angelenos were the first to embrace the hybrid car, and now we’re always looking to what’s next in eco-friendly technology. The first-gen hybrids just don’t cut it anymore for Los Angeles drivers, leading many to look elsewhere for a ride that can best the Prius.
Enter, the 2017 Lexus ES 300h, a luxury option that’s good for the planet, too. But how does it stack up against the 2017 Toyota Prius Four? Read on to find out:
Powertrain
Lexus ES 300h
The 2017 ES 300h is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 Atkinson cycle engine combined with an electric motor with nickel-metal hydride battery module. It utilizes the ground-breaking Lexus Hybrid Drive system to seamlessly switch between power sources, and a continuously variable automatic transmission for smooth transitions between gears.
The system makes a net 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, going from zero to 60 in 8.1 seconds. The ES 300h gets an EPA-estimated 40 MPG city and 39 MPG highway.
Toyota Prius Four
All models of the 2017 Prius have a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with a permanent magnet AC electric motor, mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
The Prius’ system makes 121 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque. While it lags behind the ES 300h significantly in speed and power, it makes some gains in fuel economy. The 2017 Prius Four gets an EPA-estimated 54 MPG city and 50 MPG highway.
Features
Lexus ES 300h
The 2017 ES 300h has a standard panorama glass roof, Lexus Display Audio color multi-media display, Scout GPS Link navigation, 8-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System, backup camera, dual-zone climate control with smog filter, and subscription-free traffic and weather. Additionally, all models come with NuLuxe interior trim, power-adjustable front seats, LED daytime running lights, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote apps.
Available options include heated and ventilated front seats, wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel, heated steering wheel, power rear sunshade, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, power trunk open/close, Intuitive Parking Assist, and twin projector Bi-LED headlamps. You also have the option to add a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System with 15 speakers, Clari-fi technology and subwoofer.
Toyota Prius Four
The 2017 Prius Four has standard Entune Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation, Qi-compatible wireless phone charger, cruise control, integrated backup camera, Smart-Flow climate control, and Multi-Information Display. The Prius Four adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
The Prius Four’s cabin features SofTex-trimmed heated front seats that are power-adjustable, and available Entune Premium JBL Audio Safety Connect, and Color Head-Up Display.
Pricing
Lexus ES 300h
Starting at $41,820 MSRP
Toyota Prius Four
Starting at $29,695 MSRP
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