This five-year-old hybrid embarrasses its new rivals in terms of reliability

Used hybrids don’t always have the best reputation, but some models completely break that stereotype, and a five-year-old option stands out with reliability that rivals, and often surpasses, many 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 carry additional risks. For value-oriented shoppers, this makes it one of the smarter second-hand buys on the market.

What makes this particular hybrid so reliable is its combination of proven engineering, conservative battery technology, and a drivetrain that’s already shown to go well over 150,000 miles with minimal problems. While new car prices continue to rise and are sometimes launched with untested components, this five-year-old model has already demonstrated consistency where it counts: low repair frequency, affordable maintenance and excellent real-world fuel economy.

We explain why this hybrid has become a must-have on the used market, how it remains so trouble-free, and why buyers looking for efficiency and peace of mind should strongly consider it over a brand-new alternative.

The 2021 Lexus ES 300h has a phenomenal reputation for reliability

Few automakers deliver consistent reliability as well as Lexus, if any. The Japanese brand has built its reputation on longevity and low operating costs. If you’re looking for an affordable luxury car that you won’t have to constantly spend money on, 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 is thrown at it.

Reliability of the 2021 Lexus ES

Lexus has found the perfect balance between designing contemporary cars while continuing to use solid parts throughout its lineup. This strategy has allowed them to achieve consistent reliability within their brand. Consumer Reports named them the second most trusted brand you can buy from in 2025, but they often get the top spot. The 2021 ES 300h, in particular, scored a whopping 87/100 for quality and reliability, which is more than any modern luxury sedan.

Few owners find anything to complain about when it comes to the ES 300h’s reliability. Cars.com owners gave the hybrid five out of five stars for reliability. In fact, no model from this generation of ES scored lower than five out of five.

Maintenance costs

• Average annual maintenance costs: $551 (Repairer)
• Average maintenance costs over ten years: $5,952 (CarEdge)
• Reminders: 1

Recalls are quite rare at Lexus, with most of their models hitting the road with very few issues to resolve. The 2021 ES 300h has, however, been recalled once. It was because of a faulty occupant sensor. Make sure the used model you are viewing has fixed this issue.

In terms of long-term maintenance, the Lexus hybrid sedan presents no problems. CarEdge estimates that you’ll spend $3,738 less to maintain your ES 300h over ten years than you would for an 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 this time will cost more than $500.

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You Can Get a 2021 Lexus ES for the Price of a New Toyota Camry

Credit: Lexus

In general, Lexus cars hold their value pretty well. Despite this, you can still get a five-year-old ES for the price of a new Camry. Instead of riding in a traditional sedan, you can access luxurious technology and sumptuous materials. Because it is very reliable, you shouldn’t have to worry about using it either, as long as it has been maintained.

Average used price

When it first went on sale, the 2021 ES 300h would have cost you between $42,895 and $51,985 depending on the trim you chose. This means you save over $15,000 on average by opting for a used model.

Of the three versions you can choose from, there really isn’t a bad deal. We’d skip the base trim, though, because the Luxury trim adds significant equipment and doesn’t cost much more. For the best value, we’d opt for the Ultra Luxury version. For $36,000, you get a luxury sedan with quilted semi-aniline leather upholstery, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, and an adaptive suspension system.

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The ES 300h may not be a performance machine, but it’s smooth and efficient

Credit: Lexus

Many luxury automakers try to strike a balance between sportiness and comfort with their midsize sedans. However, this often leads to many compromises in both departments. While the ES may not be as exciting as some of its direct competitors, there’s no denying that it does luxury incredibly well. In addition, its hybrid powertrain guarantees you considerable fuel savings.

Performance of the 2021 Lexus ES 300h

Every 2021 ES 300h comes equipped with a stoic four-cylinder engine that has proven itself in 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 fastest sedan in its segment, but there’s no denying that it offers an incredibly smooth ride and is very composed around corners. The optional adaptive suspension also works wonderfully.

When it comes to hybrids, the ES 300h is one of the most efficient models on the market. There are no hybrid luxury sedans that offer better fuel efficiency. There are only a handful of small mainstream sedans that get a few extra miles per gallon. The EPA estimates you’ll save $2,750 on gas over five years compared to the average new car.

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Inside, Lexus manages an incredibly luxurious and feature-packed cabin

Credit: Lexus

If comfort is more important to you than performance, then the ES certainly won’t disappoint. Even new, Lexus manages to offer more standard features than you might expect for the price you pay. For a lightly used car that costs the same as a mainstream midsize sedan, it’s hard to beat that kind of value.

Interior dimensions and comfort features

In terms of interior space, the ES is one of the most generous midsize sedans on the market. Although headroom may be a little less than some competitors, legroom is at the high end of the segment. Even tall adults will feel perfectly comfortable on long journeys, whether sitting in the front or back. The cargo capacity is also more than reasonable. The only downside here is that the rear seats don’t fold.

The ES 300h offers an incredibly serene cabin. The Japanese automaker has done a fantastic job of sound insulation, keeping out the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Refined materials have been used throughout the cabin, with premium trims including 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 offered here.

Infotainment and technology

Lexus is all about technology. Base models come with an eight-inch infotainment screen, mounted at the top of the dashboard. Higher trim levels, however, come with a 12.3-inch screen. We would look for models with this option. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features, however. A ten-speaker audio system is standard, but some models come with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.