For those seeking the Best Cars Under 60k that deliver luxury without breaking the bank, the Lexus ES emerges as a compelling contender. Sharing its foundation with the Toyota Camry, the ES prioritizes comfort and refinement, distinguishing itself in a segment often characterized by sporty, sometimes jarring, rides. Unlike some rivals that emphasize driver engagement through stiff suspensions, the 2025 Lexus ES is engineered for serene journeys. Its meticulously tuned suspension adeptly absorbs road imperfections, shielding occupants from bumps and vibrations. True to Lexus’s reputation, the cabin is a sanctuary of quiet, thanks to generous sound-deadening materials that effectively block out unwanted external noise.
Alt text: Plush and spacious Lexus ES interior showcasing leather seats and a large infotainment screen, emphasizing comfort and technology in a luxury sedan.
Under the hood, the Lexus ES offers a range of powertrains to suit different preferences. Front-wheel-drive gas models boast a seamlessly smooth V6 engine producing 302 horsepower. This provides ample power for confident merging and effortless highway cruising. For those prioritizing all-weather capability, an all-wheel-drive variant is available, powered by a 203-hp four-cylinder engine. The hybrid models, ideal for eco-conscious commuters, also utilize four-cylinder engines, enhanced by electric motors to achieve a combined output of 215 hp. These Lexus hybrids are particularly noteworthy for their exceptional fuel economy, boasting an EPA-estimated 44 mpg, making them a smart choice for daily driving without sacrificing luxury.
Stepping inside, the Lexus ES cabin is a testament to sophisticated design and premium materials. Even lower trim levels impress with high-quality imitation leather, while higher trims elevate the experience with genuine leather in a variety of attractive color schemes. Both front and rear passengers enjoy generous space, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The trunk capacity is competitive within the midsize luxury sedan class, offering practical storage. The infotainment system is thoroughly modern, centered around a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, along with a highly responsive voice recognition system, integrating seamlessly with your digital life.
Safety remains a paramount concern, and the Lexus ES is well-equipped in this regard. While the 2024 model year saw a slight dip in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings due to revised testing, the 2025 Lexus ES has once again earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) top five-star safety rating. Every Lexus ES trim comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
When considering the best cars under 60k, the Lexus ES naturally draws comparisons to its rivals. The Acura TLX is a close competitor, leaning slightly more towards sporty driving dynamics but sharing a similar size and feature set. The Genesis G70 and Genesis G80, with their rear-wheel-drive platforms and opulent interiors, also compete in this space, albeit with a different driving feel. While many midsize luxury sedans offer mild-hybrid technology, the Lexus ES stands out as the only model in its segment offering a full hybrid powertrain, excluding the all-electric Genesis Electrified G80.
In conclusion, for those prioritizing a comfortable, refined, and fuel-efficient luxury sedan within the best cars under 60k price range, the Lexus ES is a strong contender. Its focus on ride quality, quiet cabin, and comprehensive features, combined with Lexus’s renowned reliability, makes it a compelling choice in a competitive market.
