Lexus ES 250 (1990-1991)

The Lexus ES 250, Lexus’s very first entry-level luxury sedan. The ES 250 was intended as a temporary entry model to fill out the brand’s launch lineup alongside the LS 400. Criticized for being too close to the Camry in design and performance, but praised for Lexus reliability, interior comfort, and value. The ES 250 was replaced by the far more successful 1992 ES 300.

Overview

• Production: Late 1989 – 1991
• Model years: 1990–1991 (U.S.)
• Platform: Based on Toyota Camry Prominent (V20 series)
• Body style: 4-door sedan
• Positioning: Entry-level model positioned below the LS 400 in the Lexus lineup.

Engine & Performance

• Engine: 2.5L 2VZ-FE V6, SOHC 24-valve
• Output: 156 hp @ 5,800 rpm, 160 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic (standard), 5-speed manual (rare)
• Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive
• 0–60 mph: ~9.0 seconds

Features

• Standard leather upholstery, wood trim, power windows and locks, cruise control, and automatic climate control.
• Premium Pioneer audio system.
• Safety: Driver’s airbag, ABS standard.
• Comfortable and quiet, aimed at buyers looking for Lexus refinement at a lower price point.

Year	Updates
1990	Launch year. Positioned as Lexus’s first mid-size sedan. Essentially a rebadged, luxury-trim Toyota Camry V6 with added sound insulation, higher-quality interior materials, and Lexus styling.
1991	Final model year. Minor equipment adjustments; mostly unchanged. Discontinued after 1991 to make way for the all-new ES 300 (1992).

 

Year	Key Features & Updates	Engine / Performance
1990	Launch year. Lexus’s first entry-level sedan, based on the Toyota Camry Prominent (V20). Marketed as a comfortable, refined luxury sedan with Lexus branding. Standard features: leather upholstery, wood trim, power windows/locks, automatic climate control, premium Pioneer audio, cruise control, and ABS.	2.5L 2VZ-FE SOHC V6, 156 hp @ 5,800 rpm, 160 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm. 4-speed automatic standard, rare 5-speed manual. FWD. 0–60 mph ~9.0s.
1991	Final model year. No major mechanical or cosmetic changes. Equipment packages slightly adjusted; additional sound insulation. Production ends late 1991. Replaced by the 1992 ES 300.	Same 2.5L V6, 156 hp, 4-speed automatic.