Lexus ES 250 Review

1990 Lexus ES 250 4 Dr STD Sedan Shown

Although most people only remember the LS flagship, the Lexus ES 250 sedan was part of the original Lexus lineup when the brand launched in 1990. Positioned as the entry-level car for Toyota's then-new luxury division, it was a quick rebadge job of the Camry from that era. As such, there was little to distinguish it in the way of styling, performance or premium content and it didn't really live up to its billing as an entry-level luxury sedan.

All Lexus ES 250s came with a 2.5-liter V6 engine rated at 156 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels was standard, but the vast majority of ES 250s were ordered with the optional four-speed automatic.

Standard equipment on the Lexus ES 250 included 15-inch alloy wheels, antilock brakes, a driver-side front airbag, cloth upholstery, air-conditioning, a cassette stereo and full power accessories. Most ES 250s were further outfitted with the full plate of options, including leather upholstery, a power driver seat, a CD player and a sunroof.

Given the advanced age and uncertain condition of the Lexus ES 250s you're apt to turn up on the used car market, most consumers should direct their attention to its successors -- the ES 300, ES 330 and ES 350.

SELECT A SPECIFIC LEXUS ES 250 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.