Lexus ES vs. Volvo V90: Complete comparison 2026

The Lexus ES, whose name is derived from the words Executive Sedan, is a refined Japanese car that stands out on the used car market primarily for its exceptionally quiet interior and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. Its challenger is the Swedish estate Volvo V90, available in many markets primarily in the more adventurous V90 Cross Country variant, which attracts buyers with its unrivaled safety, huge luggage compartment, and minimalist Nordic design. In the following paragraphs, we will compare both of these premium models in detail so you can easily find out whether an elegant Asian sedan is a better choice for you, or if you would rather opt for maximum practicality in the form of a spacious family estate.

Looking at the exterior dimensions, you will find that although both models belong to the prestigious executive class, they approach their overall proportions slightly differently. The Lexus ES in its current generation (XZ1) impresses with an overall length of 4975 mm, making it 30 mm longer than the second-generation Volvo V90 estate, which measures 4945 mm. This additional length underlines the elegant and elongated silhouette of the Japanese sedan, while Volvo bets on slightly shorter overall dimensions, which you will appreciate especially during parallel parking and everyday maneuvering in narrow city centers.

While Lexus leads in overall length, the Swedish representative has the upper hand in other exterior dimensions. At 1879 mm, the Volvo V90 is 14 mm wider than the Lexus (1865 mm) and, at 1472 mm, also 27 mm taller compared to the aerodynamically shaped roof of the Lexus (1445 mm). These differences directly affect the interior layout; thanks to its wider and taller body, the Volvo can offer the occupants a slightly airier interior with more generous head and shoulder room. The lower build of the Lexus, on the other hand, contributes to lower aerodynamic drag, a lower center of gravity, and an overall sportier driving position.

The key parameter for interior space, however, is the wheelbase, and in this discipline, the Volvo V90 clearly dominates. The wheelbase of the Swedish model reaches 2941 mm, which is a significant 71 mm more than the Lexus ES with a value of 2870 mm. From the perspective of family or business use, the Volvo V90 provides rear-seat passengers with more legroom thanks to this lead, making it an ideal choice for long highway journeys. Lexus, on the other hand, offers a balanced compromise between a comfortable interior and the smoother handling typical of classic three-box sedans.

When choosing a premium car, practicality often plays a key role, especially if you are considering whether to opt for a luxury sedan or a versatile estate. While the Lexus ES primarily targets maximum passenger comfort and representative design, the Volvo V90 is designed with family use and everyday flexibility in mind. The difference in body styles logically and very significantly translates into the total volume and usability of the luggage compartment, which is often a deciding factor for many buyers of four-year-old used cars.

The current generation Lexus ES (XZ1), which you will find on the used car market from 2021 to 2022 exclusively as the ES 300h full hybrid model, has a luggage compartment with a capacity of 454 liters. This space is fully sufficient for a regular weekend shop or safely storing two larger suitcases for a business trip. However, due to the traditional sedan concept (and partly the space requirements of the hybrid powertrain), overall variability is limited. The seats cannot be fully folded down for transporting oversized items, and the loading opening itself is naturally smaller compared to a tailgate.

In contrast, the Volvo V90, as a proud representative of traditional family estates, excels in spaciousness and ease of access. For popular mild-hybrid engines (e.g., B4 or B5) from the relevant production years around 2021 and 2022, it offers a standard volume of 507 liters. After folding the rear backrests, it transforms into a small van with a flat loading area and a maximum volume of up to 1,473 liters. This space easily swallows a stroller, sports equipment, and luggage for a long family holiday. Care should be taken when choosing powerful plug-in hybrid versions (T6 and T8 Recharge). Here, the placement of the high-voltage battery slightly eats into the liters and reduces the standard capacity to 488 liters (or 1,454 liters after folding the seats).

Luggage Compartment Capacity Comparison

In terms of transport capacity, the choice is clear. If you are looking for a full-fledged family car or enjoy an active lifestyle and often carry bulkier items, the Volvo V90 clearly outshines the Lexus with its capabilities and practical body. The Japanese sedan, on the other hand, perfectly suits couples or busy managers who only need an elegant basic space for everyday personal luggage and do not care much about variability.

When it comes to comparing trailer weight, the Lexus ES and Volvo V90 represent two completely different worlds. This parameter is crucial for many buyers, as it fundamentally determines the car's utility value for leisure and everyday practicality. The Swedish estate is renowned for its versatility, while the Japanese premium sedan focuses exclusively on quiet and comfortable passenger transport.

The second-generation Volvo V90 (especially in the four-year-old used car market) can tow a braked trailer with a standard weight of 1800 kg. This value is offered by base engines such as the D3 diesel versions or T4 and T5 petrol versions. For newer mild-hybrid variants (B4, B5), the capacity increases to 2000 kg, while the top-of-the-line plug-in hybrids (T6, T8) and powerful D5 or B6 engines can tow a maximum of 2100 to 2200 kg. This is an excellent value for Volvo's hybrid models, as many similarly electrified cars from other brands often have significantly limited towing capacity. In contrast, the Lexus ES 300h (XZ1 generation) is not homologated for towing a trailer in Europe at all – its standard and maximum towing capacity is exactly 0 kg. Although a special hitch can be purchased for the car, it is legally approved exclusively as a support for a bicycle rack.

In practice, this means that the Volvo V90 will easily provide you with reliable power and space for towing a heavy family caravan or a large boat trailer. Its capacities are thus perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping for heavy building materials as well as long holidays. On the other hand, with the Lexus, you simply cannot hitch up any utility trailer or caravan. The conclusion is therefore clear: if the ability to tow anything is a necessity for you, the Volvo V90 emerges from this duel as the clear and, in fact, only winner. The Lexus ES fully admits its role here as a purebred, exclusively representative luxury limousine.

Trailer Weight Comparison

The Lexus ES and Volvo V90 approach the powertrain from diametrically different angles, reflecting their overall focus. While the Japanese premium sedan relies exclusively on proven and highly efficient full-hybrid technology, the Swedish estate offers a much more diverse range extending from diesel and petrol mild-hybrids to extremely powerful plug-in hybrids. For drivers looking for uncomplicated reliability and exceptionally low fuel consumption in the city or on country roads, the relaxed Lexus powertrain makes clear sense. On the other hand, those who regularly tackle motorway routes, require all-wheel drive (AWD), or desire dazzling dynamics with the possibility of daily pure electric driving will find the answer in Volvo's diverse range.

Lexus ES

The engine range for the Lexus ES (XZ1 generation) is exceptionally straightforward on the European market. Those interested in a roughly four-year-old used car have only a single variant available – the full hybrid powertrain designated 300h. This consists of a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter petrol four-cylinder engine operating on the Atkinson cycle and a sophisticated electric motor. The total system output reaches 160 kW (218 hp) and is continuously transmitted exclusively to the front wheels (FWD) via the famously reliable electronically controlled planetary e-CVT gearbox. Although this configuration is not intended for sporty driving, its absolute strengths are silky smooth operation, long-term durability, and excellent fuel economy, which easily stays well below the six-liter mark in combined driving.

Volvo V90

The engine range for the Volvo V90 (2nd generation) is incomparably more diverse, but when looking for a car approximately four years old, a fundamental change in the offering must be taken into account. During 2020 and 2021, the carmaker phased out traditional pure diesel (D3, D4, D5) and petrol engines (T4, T5) and replaced them with electrified alternatives. The core of the newer used car range thus consists of refined two-liter four-cylinder engines with 48V mild-hybrid technology, designated by the letter "B". Customers can choose between petrol (B4, B5, B6) and diesel units (B4 Diesel, B5 Diesel) with outputs ranging from 145 kW to 220 kW. The top of the range for exceptionally demanding drivers are the T6 and T8 Recharge plug-in hybrids. These combine a combustion engine at the front with a powerful electric motor on the rear axle, giving the car not only the ability for local emission-free driving but also electronic all-wheel drive and brutal dynamics reaching up to 335 kW in the updated T8 versions. All Volvo powertrains from this era are standardly paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.

While the Volvo V90 offers a wide range of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains (from efficient four-cylinders to powerful T8 versions with over 400 hp), Lexus has bet everything on a single card for the ES model (XZ1 generation, 2019–present) in Europe – the proven 300h full hybrid system. Interestingly, despite the apparent handicap of lacking alternatives and all-wheel drive, Lexus's naturally aspirated hybrid reliably beats even Volvo's most efficient diesel engines in real-world city fuel consumption. The choice of a suitable engine for roughly four-year-old used cars thus primarily depends on whether you spend most of your time in suburban traffic jams or on highway routes. Both our recommendations therefore reflect real user experiences, mechanical reliability, and actual efficiency in operation.

For the Lexus ES, we recommend: 300h (2.5 Hybrid, 160 kW / 218 hp)

Since the ES model is exclusively available with this single powertrain on our market, the choice is predetermined. However, this is not a problem at all, as the 300h system represents the absolute pinnacle in the luxury used car class in terms of reliability and operating costs.

• Why it's the best choice: The fourth generation of Toyota/Lexus full hybrid drive (FHEV) is synonymous with worry-free ownership. The mechanical durability of this system is unsurpassed on the market, and a major advantage is that it requires no external charging by the user.
• Technical advantages: The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine operating in a highly efficient Atkinson cycle is paired with an electric motor via an e-CVT planetary gearbox. This system excels in urban and suburban traffic, where it can seamlessly switch to pure electric drive and achieve real-world fuel consumption below 5 l/100 km. Furthermore, the ride is absolutely smooth and quiet.
• Risks and what to watch out for: The powertrain is mechanically almost bulletproof. The only minor weakness can be the clogging of the traction battery cooling vents located under the rear seats. Check if they are blocked by dust or pet hair (which could lead to battery overheating) – simply vacuuming them regularly is enough. From a driving dynamics perspective, some drivers may find the typical "vacuum cleaner-like" sound of the e-CVT gearbox off-putting, as it sends the revs high during sharp highway overtaking.
• Who it's for: Ideal for calm and defensive drivers who mostly commute to the city and surrounding areas, appreciate luxurious silence on board, and require a car that will only need routine maintenance for many years.

For the Volvo V90, we recommend: B4 Diesel (2.0 MHEV, 145 kW / 197 hp)

For a roughly four-year-old, two-ton estate (in the generation produced since 2016) designed as the ultimate long-distance cruiser, the improved diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology, labeled B4 Diesel, makes the most sense among the engines offered between 2020 and 2024.

• Why it's the best choice: 197 hp is a perfectly adequate compromise for a huge family estate. The mild-hybrid system with a 48V network successfully replaced the older D4 engines (thus suppressing some teething troubles of early versions), added a much smoother and imperceptible start/stop system, and noticeably improved the car's pull from the lowest revs. Furthermore, it is often available on the market with the highly sought-after all-wheel drive (AWD).
• Technical advantages: The B4 Diesel offers a robust torque curve (420 Nm), thanks to which the car doesn't struggle even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. On the highway, this engine easily pushes average fuel consumption down towards the 6 l/100 km mark. Additionally, the integration of the starter-generator has beautifully smoothed out the previous turbo lag and quickened the response to the accelerator pedal.
• Risks and what to watch out for: Like any modern diesel, the B4 engine features a complex emission system, including a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and an EGR valve. The greatest risk is exclusively short city hops with a cold engine, which inevitably lead to rapid DPF clogging and engine oil dilution with diesel from unfinished regenerations. Therefore, check the oil change history (shortening the interval to 15,000 km is a huge plus). We also recommend refueling with premium diesel with additives to help protect the more sensitive injection system.
• Who it's for: A perfect choice for business travelers, families frequently heading to the mountains, or simply anyone who spends weekends on long highway journeys, fully utilizes the transport capacity of a large estate, and at the same time is not afraid to give the diesel the necessary driving style and honest maintenance.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often paint an overly optimistic picture that is hard to achieve in everyday driving. For the most accurate comparison of these two luxury models, we have turned to real-world data from the independent community portal Spritmonitor.de, where owners meticulously record their refueling. In the context of the used car market, we focus primarily on cars approximately four years old – specifically the current generation of the Lexus designated XZ1 (from 2019) and the second-generation Volvo V90 engines introduced mostly after 2020. The following data directly reflects actual user experiences and long-term findings of our editorial team.

A detailed look at the identified trends clearly shows the very different technological approaches of the two automakers. The centerpiece of Lexus's European offering is the ES 300h full hybrid system, which achieves excellent results. An average just below the six-liter mark is impressive for a nearly five-meter luxury sedan, a result the Japanese car achieves by cleverly alternating between electric drive and an efficient naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine without the need for any external charging. Since 2020, the rival Swedish V90 estate has relied primarily on electrified mild-hybrid units designated "B". Here, many buyers might find it surprising that the entry-level turbocharged petrol engines (such as the B4 variant) do not deliver the expected fuel savings in such a heavy car, with real-world consumption rarely falling below 7.5 liters per hundred kilometers. Therefore, diesel remains a much more rational choice for the Volvo – the B4 Diesel or the slightly more powerful B5 Diesel represent the optimal middle ground with real-world consumption ranging from roughly 6.5 to 7.1 l/100 km. The plug-in hybrid flagship T8 Recharge is a chapter of its own. While you can look forward to consumption below five liters (though this is still a significant difference compared to the official figures of around one liter), this is strictly conditional on daily, careful charging of the battery from the grid. With a depleted battery, the values quickly climb to the opposite end of the scale due to the high weight.

For the typical user, these figures provide clear purchase recommendations. If you drive primarily in the city or its immediate surroundings, spend a lot of time in traffic jams, and care about minimizing operating costs, the hybrid Lexus ES 300h guarantees above-standard efficiency without the need to search for charging stations. Conversely, the Volvo V90 with a diesel mild-hybrid will suit drivers who spend their lives on the road; those who regularly cover hundreds of highway kilometers at a time, where the Japanese brand's petrol hybrid loses much of its advantage associated with smooth recuperation and consumption levels out. The Swedish representative's powerful plug-in hybrid system then makes sense almost exclusively for drivers who cover up to 40 kilometers during the day and have constant access to a wallbox at home and at work.

Fuel consumption will certainly be one of the key decision-making factors in this duel. Lexus attracts buyers with a single, yet exceptionally refined and worry-free hybrid unit boasting almost stoic composure. In contrast, Volvo counters with the breadth and diversity of its range, in which – despite all modern trends – the honest diesel foundation still wins for high-mileage drivers.

Used Car Prices and Depreciation

Looking at the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (2021 to 2022 models), we encounter two completely different approaches to depreciation. While the Japanese sedan benefits from its global reputation for indestructible hybrid technology, the large Swedish estate suffers from the typically steeper price drop common to luxury European cars in their early years.

Lexus ES (7th generation, 2018–present)

Lexus holds its value very confidently on the secondary market. The vast majority of available used cars in Europe bear the ES 300h designation, which means a combination of the proven 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and an electric motor.

• Depreciation: Very gradual. Used car buyers have long trusted the legendary reliability of the hybrid system, which keeps demand and prices high.
• Price range: Four-year-old cars with higher mileage (over 150,000 km) start at roughly €29,000. Better-preserved units with demonstrably lower mileage and in more attractive trims (e.g., F Sport or Luxury) most often range between €33,000 and €39,000 on the market.
• Availability and selection: The selection on the European market is somewhat narrower. Furthermore, the specifications are clearly defined – with Lexus, you will be choosing almost exclusively from hybrid front-wheel-drive models.

Volvo V90 (1st generation facelift, models from 2020)

For lovers of large and safe family estates, a four-year-old Volvo V90 represents an exceptionally tempting used car purchase. A faster initial depreciation means that for your money, you get a huge piece of premium car with very generous equipment.

• Depreciation: Significantly steeper than with the Lexus. This is a disadvantage for the first owner, but for a second-hand buyer, it makes the V90 an excellent value proposition.
• Price range: Prices for the most affordable units with popular mild-hybrid or older diesel engines (B4, D4) usually start around €25,000. The "golden middle ground," represented by cars with mileage up to 100,000 km and more powerful engines, costs roughly €31,000 to €37,000.
• Availability and selection: The selection is incomparably more diverse. You can easily find economical diesels, petrol engines, powerful plug-in hybrids (Recharge), and of course, the popular, more rugged, and cladded Cross Country variant.

Overview of Indicative Used Car Prices (approx. 4 years old)

Note: The prices above are indicative only and depend on current market supply, the specific technical condition of the vehicle, verifiable service history, and the chosen equipment level.

Both models, the Lexus ES and Volvo V90, achieved the maximum five-star rating in independent Euro NCAP crash tests. When choosing a roughly four-year-old used car, however, it is crucial to put these results into the correct context and consider the year of testing. Euro NCAP protocols evolve and become more stringent over time, so percentage scores from different years cannot always be compared directly. Each new year brings more demanding methodology, for example, in the area of cyclist detection or intersection crash simulations.

The Lexus ES underwent Euro NCAP tests in 2018, when a new and significantly stricter testing methodology came into force. This focused, among other things, on advanced protection for vulnerable road users, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB) that reacts to cyclists in daytime traffic and pedestrians at night. Lexus excelled in this discipline, earning an outstanding 90%. A high level of passive safety is ensured by the rigid GA-K platform and ten standard airbags. Active safety is handled by the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ package, which provided the car with very modern and reliable protection corresponding to the latest standards at the time.

The Volvo V90's rating is based on tests of the sister sedan, the S90, conducted in 2017 (Euro NCAP verified that the estate version provides a structurally identical or better level of protection). For an automaker where safety is a historical mantra, it took home a staggering 95% for adult occupant protection and 93% for safety assistance systems that year. This was primarily due to the breakthrough City Safety system, which was one of the first in the world to receive full points in autonomous braking tests for pedestrians. Although the 2017 methodology was not yet as strict regarding certain cyclist scenarios, Volvo set the bar for both passive and active safety in its time.

In terms of overall safety, both cars represent an exceptionally safe choice on the used car market. The Volvo V90 excels with top-tier adult occupant protection and excellently tuned safety assistants that prevent collisions. However, due to testing under the stricter and more comprehensive 2018 standards (which include more modern cyclist detection), the Lexus ES offers a slightly more current and well-rounded safety package regarding surrounding traffic from today's perspective.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, with both cars bringing their own distinctive approach to luxury and added value.

Lexus ES: Master Craftsmanship and Hybrid Silence

• Interior and Craftsmanship (Takumi): Lexus distinguishes itself significantly with an emphasis on the traditional Japanese craftsmanship of Takumi masters. The interior offers precise details, such as hand-stitching or unique decorative finishes. Examples include the Hadori aluminum trim, inspired by Japanese sword-polishing techniques, or the use of genuine Shimamoku wood, giving the cabin an unmistakable, organic feel of luxury.
• Acoustic Comfort and Audio System: The ES model is renowned for having one of the quietest interiors in its class. Silence on board is ensured by acoustic glass and extensive sound insulation. In this perfectly shielded cabin, the optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay audio system stands out, offering an extraordinarily clear musical experience thanks to its specific spatial distribution.
• Innovative Technology and Telematics: As part of its technological evolution, Lexus transitioned from the previous touchpad to more user-friendly touchscreens in used cars approximately four years old. The vehicles are also connected to the Lexus Link app, which provides remote access to the car, tracking of driving data, and makes it easier to find a parked vehicle. In selected markets, the ES can even be found with digital rear-view mirrors (cameras), which improve visibility at night and in the rain.
• Advanced Assistance Systems: The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 package (and newer) provides excellent protection. It includes, for example, an enhanced pre-collision system that can detect oncoming vehicles and pedestrians even when turning at intersections.
• Powertrain and F Sport Version: The dominant and time-tested full hybrid system (ES 300h) offers the user the advantage of an extremely smooth and quiet ride with very low fuel consumption without the need for plug-in charging. Those interested in a more dynamic character can choose the F Sport trim. In addition to sport-styled bumpers and specific seats, it adds Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which noticeably firms up the chassis during spirited driving while maintaining supple comfort over bumps.

Volvo V90: Scandinavian Practicality and Technological Sophistication

• Infotainment, Connectivity, and OTA Updates: Modernized V90 models from recent years come with a built-in operating system from Google (Android Automotive). Consequently, Google Maps, a voice assistant, and an app store are natively integrated, making navigation a completely seamless experience. Furthermore, the car fully supports OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, so the infotainment software and control units can be improved remotely throughout the period of ownership.
• Family Practicality and Smart Solutions: Like a true Swedish estate, the V90 hides several ingenious solutions for everyday family life. A completely unique and iconic feature is the optional integrated child booster seats in the second row – simply flip up the seat cushion and an older child can travel safely even without an external car seat. The luggage compartment then offers a clever fold-out divider that prevents smaller shopping items from moving around the boot floor.
• Scandinavian Design and Sustainability: The minimalist interior utilizes high-quality and innovative materials. A true gem is the crystal automatic gear selector from the Swedish glassworks Orrefors (available on higher trims and hybrids). Environmentally conscious buyers will appreciate the unique optional Tailored Wool Blend upholstery on the used car market, which is naturally breathable in summer and pleasantly warm in winter.
• Safety Systems and Pilot Assist: Assistance equipment is central to Volvo. The City Safety architecture precisely detects cyclists and large animals. The Pilot Assist function then offers one of the most refined semi-autonomous systems on the market – it excellently and gently keeps the car in the center of the highway lane and adjusts the distance from other cars, rapidly reducing fatigue on long journeys.
• Bowers & Wilkins Audio System: Similar to Lexus, Volvo also has its weapon in the field of audio. The premium Bowers & Wilkins system with its iconic "tweeter-on-top" on the dashboard features specific acoustic modes. Particularly popular is the simulation of the acoustics in the "Gothenburg Concert Hall" or a jazz club.
• Versatile Cross Country Variant: While plug-in hybrids (Recharge) handle emission-free city driving, for lovers of an active lifestyle, there is the Cross Country version. It is characterized by increased ground clearance, protective plastics, and standard all-wheel drive. This creates a versatile alternative to traditional SUVs that is not intimidated by light terrain and broken mountain roads.

The Lexus ES is the perfect choice for executives or older couples looking for a representative car with a maximum emphasis on comfort, silence, and worry-free reliable operation. However, due to the classic sedan concept and the inability to extend the luggage space, it is absolutely unsuitable for transporting larger items.

The Volvo V90 primarily targets families and active motorists who benefit daily from the generous luggage compartment, top-tier safety, and the security of all-wheel drive. This premium Nordic cruiser offers fantastic design and utility, but requires coming to terms with fully touch-based controls and average service costs.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, reliability statistics, and comprehensive vehicle inspections, we present an overview of the most common faults you should focus on for both models on the used car market.

The seventh-generation Lexus ES is considered one of the most reliable cars in its class, and any potential shortcomings are usually limited to minor issues with electronics or ergonomics.

• Infotainment and controls: Pre-facelift versions (roughly until 2021) use a central touchpad to control the onboard system, which is often criticized for being cumbersome and distracting. Occasionally, there are complaints about slow response or system freezes, which are usually fixed by a software update.
• Electronics (12V battery): In hybrid variants (ES 300h), the standard 12V battery can discharge if the vehicle sits for a long time or is used only for extremely short trips.
• Interior: Build quality is top-notch; however, in older models from the start of production, slight plastic creaking in the dashboard or sunroof area may exceptionally occur when driving over significant bumps.
• Chassis and brakes: The chassis itself is mechanically very durable. Wear on brake components is minimal thanks to recuperation, but this can occasionally cause the rear brake discs to rust on cars with lower mileage.

Technically, the Volvo V90 offers immense comfort and advanced safety, but with more complex engines and richer equipment, it requires a more careful check of the service history when buying a used car.

• Infotainment and software: In vehicles equipped with the Sensus system (before the switch to Android Automotive), the central display tends to be slower immediately after starting and occasionally prone to restarts. In newer versions with the Google system, connectivity outages and software bugs were initially addressed.
• Engines (D4/D5 Diesels): In older diesel engines, EGR valve clogging occurs more frequently. In the more powerful D5 version (with PowerPulse technology), a well-known fault is a cracking or popping compressed air system hose, resulting in loss of power.
• Powertrain (T8 Recharge): Plug-in hybrid models may suffer from faults in the electric rear axle drive (ERAD) after several years. The problem most often manifests as an unpleasant humming or vibration from the rear wheels, and the repair is usually very expensive.
• Chassis (Air suspension): Cars with optional rear air suspension show an increased risk of air bag leaks or compressor failure after approximately five years, revealed by a noticeably "kneeling" rear end after parking.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models, which is why a detailed comprehensive car inspection is always worth it before making a final decision.

When choosing a Lexus ES:

• Hybrid system smoothness: In the most common ES 300h engine, focus on the transition between pure electric drive and the internal combustion engine during the test drive. The ignition of the gasoline four-cylinder must be almost imperceptible. If you feel significant jerking or delay, it may indicate a problem in the transmission or worn engine mounts.
• Infotainment and touchpad: Especially for 2019 and 2020 models before the arrival of touchscreens, check the sensitivity and functionality of the control touchpad on the center console. Also verify system stability and the presence of updates for smartphone mirroring (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
• Brake disc and pad condition: Thanks to the strong recuperation of the hybrid system, brake pads on a Lexus last exceptionally long. However, the rear brake discs lack load and can suffer from deep corrosion. When braking from higher speeds, watch for vibrations from the wheels to the steering wheel or brake pedal.
• Wear of premium materials: Pay attention to the seat bolsters (especially the driver's) and the steering wheel rim. Very soft leather requires regular maintenance; otherwise, it may show unsightly cracks or scuffs after a few years.
• Hybrid battery documentation: Request documents showing whether the previous owner regularly underwent annual hybrid battery health checks (Hybrid Health Check). These inspections extend the factory warranty on the battery up to 10 years and are an indicator of honest servicing.

When choosing a Volvo V90:

• Software speed and stability: Try the system immediately after starting. On the older Sensus interface (vertical display), the system may be slower for the first few minutes before it boots up. On newer models with the Google Android Automotive operating system, check if the system freezes or reports error codes for connected services.
• Rear air suspension: If the station wagon is equipped with optional rear air suspension, listen carefully to the compressor. If it kicks in too often even during a calm drive, or if the rear of the car visibly drops after standing overnight, there is likely an air leak from the bellows, which means an expensive repair.
• Plug-in hybrid system (T8 / Recharge): Test the car in pure electric mode. Listen for humming or metallic clicking from the rear axle (where the ERAD electric motor is located) during acceleration. Don't forget to check the real battery range and the smoothness of recuperation in the trip computer.
• Diesel engine operation (D4 / D5): For VEA series diesel units, closely monitor the engine's cold start performance. Check if the car jerks during acceleration or goes into limp mode, which are typical symptoms of a clogged EGR valve or intake hose problems.
• Sunroof leaks: If the car is equipped with a panoramic roof, feel the carpets under the driver's and passenger's feet and look under the upholstery in the trunk. Clogged drain channels lead to water leaking into the interior, which endangers control units located in the floor. A professional physical inspection of the used car is essential to uncover such hidden defects.

Sources: ADAC, auto.cz, mdcr.cz, emobility.cz, elektromobil.cz, autosport.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.