Lexus has been around the block long enough to know that not everything should be turned into a sporty spin-off. And yet, with hybrids making up for a good chunk of the Lexus’ demographic, they are trying to bring the best of both worlds for consumers that want their cake and eat it too.

The ES itself is not new to the F SPORT tuned performance enhancements since an F SPORT option was released on the ES 350 back in 2020. Its solid V6 and F SPORT cues proved that there can be a mild hint of sportiness to something that remains a sensible, understated purchase. However, after adding the F SPORT options to their ES 300h hybrid just last year for 2022, there is a new offering in the F SPORT packaging. Lexus now offers two tiers: F SPORT Design which includes stylish enhancements and the F SPORT Handling that brings in adaptive dampers to its suspension that can adjust the level of firmness based on certain drive modes.

On the outside, the ES 300h F SPORT does the job of supporting its sporting credentials thanks to its attractive black 19-inch wheels, a rear lip spoiler and black mesh grille. Inside there are subtle hints of flair with more aggressive front seat bolstering, red leather seats and the infamous LFA digital bezel gauge cluster. But when it comes to performance; the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motor hybrid system that produces a mere 215-combined horsepower isn’t exactly speaking to the F SPORT branding, especially considering it takes a near 8.0-second to achieve 60-mph; a whole two seconds more than its 302-horsepower V6 ES 350 F SPORT.

Giving a more solid drivability, the adaptive dampers certainly do their part providing that F SPORT style ride quality, stiffening up the suspension and keeping body roll to a minimum; however, to activate, one must be in the Sport or Sport+ drive mode. Really though, that is where the sport influences driving style ends as the steering hasn’t been adjusted to provide an as fruitful, engaging experience. The steering is numb and backed by the hybrid powertrain, the engine just moans on like a never-ending bad movie.

Taking the F SPORT package out of the equation, the ES 300h is playing a sensible numbers game. Fuel economy is rated 44-mpg and even though we didn’t quite reach the mark, we managed to average 41-mpgs from what is essentially a premium cruiser. Not using any of the special drive modes and keeping it relatively normal, the ride quality is on par to what the ES is best known for, its comfort.  The cabin is also well isolated from any wind and road noise.  

Inside, the ES F SPORT is business as usual with supple leather and soft touch materials throughout. Newly added is the 10.3-inch touch screen display that features wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity with Lexus latest infotainment software that keeps things plain and simple to navigate.

The ES sedan, as a whole, is a fine car when looking at all of its attributes. However, the F SPORT comes with a hefty price tag starting at $48,835 and ours coming out to a total of $53,880. When it comes to the sportier end of the spectrum; this is no GS and its rear-wheel drive replacement; might we point in the direction of something Korean or German if you want something that’ll put you on the edge of your seat. But when it comes to comfort and fuel economy, the ES 300h has an upper hand over some of its competition.