These days, used cars
are pricier than ever, especially if you want an SUV with a high-end interior and lavish features. But what if you could get just as much luxury, comfort, and convenience from a sedan for less than $14,000? Jerry
, the trustworthy insurance comparison app
, explores the hidden gem that is the 2012 Lexus ES. Used car, expensive energy
The 2012 Lexus ES is a comfortable ride with big luxury vibes. Starting at $13,950, the used car offers a quiet cabin, upscale amenities and is one of the best vehicles in its class.
The sedan sports a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 268 hp with an average EPA of 23 mpg. Though the six-speed automatic transmission handles smoothly, the auto lacks agility.
The interior features soft leather and polished wood surfaces. Taller passengers may long for more headroom, but overall the cabin is quite spacious. Consumer Reports appreciated the power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and the skillfully engineered dead pedal footrest and high center armrest.
The low windshield header and high dash affect the view out of the front and the rear deck lid is high. At least there’s an optional rear-view camera to help drivers see over the large rear seat head restraints and the sharply sloping rear window.
The front seats can be heated or cooled, and the rear seats are comfortable and supportive. But to the low button cushion, riders have limited thigh support. The dual-zone climate control system is user-friendly, and there’s a decent amount of storage in its small center compartment.
Switches on the headlines can control three Homelink-compatible devices and two 12-volt outlets are also available. The center console houses the auxiliary audio input.
MORE: Lexus Admitted to a Huge Design Mistake
2012 Lexus ES: Driver assist and driving with kids
This car comes standard with side curtain airbags, seatback-mounted side impact airbags, and knee airbags. In 2010, rear-seat side airbags were made standard. The used car also provides comfort guides to help you position shoulder belts for children or small adults who have outgrown child restraints.
The used car is equipped with an occupant detection system that helps determine what level of airbags should be deployed, or whether or not they should be deployed at all.
If you find a model with the optional pre-collision system, it can sense an imminent crash when a skid/sudden braking occurs, or use radar to detect. All seats include adjustable and locking head restraints and both the rear and front outboard headrests are high enough to minimize rearward head travel.
The 2012 Lexus ES allows parents to use either the seatbelts or LATCH for securing child restraints
. However, it’s tricky to access the anchors in the rear outboard seats, since they’re recessed and nestled against the seatback cushion. The rear parcel shelf provides three top-tether anchors. 2012 Lexus ES: Consumer Reports weighs in
The 2012 Lexus ES was rated #1 of 9 for Reliability among 2012 Sedans, receiving a 5 out of 5 score from Consumer Reports.
The used car also received a 5 out of 5 for Overall Owner Satisfaction. Drivers were impressed with the acceleration, smooth ride, and easy handling. They also loved the styling, workmanship, and incredible value. In fact, 81% of 2012 Lexus ES owners would buy the car again.
Other areas the sedan impressed with a 5 out of 5 score include acceleration, transmission, ride, noise, front-seat comfort, interior fit and finish, and climate system. 4 out of 5 scores were given to braking, driving position, front access, and usability.
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