3 Series vs ES: Performance-Tuned Machines

Look under the hood of these sedans and you'll find a 4-cylinder engine, but that of the BMW 3 Series will put more power at your disposal. It cranks out 255 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque. Compare that to the In-line 4 in the Lexus ES, which tops out at just 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Are you looking for all-out power? Both sedans offer more potent engine options. The BMW 3 Series M40i comes with a 3.0L M TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder engine that pumps out 382 horsepower. The 3.5L V6-available with the Lexus ES-is maxed out at just 302 horsepower.

If you need the more efficient sedan, you'll want to choose the 3 Series. It boasts an EPA-estimated 26 city/36 highway MPG.¹ The ES tops off at an EPA-estimated 25 city/34 highway MPG.

Tailored Interiors

Step inside these luxury sedans, and you'll find a variety of comfort and connective amenities designed to accommodate your daily drive. They both sit you in available leather-trimmed seats, but only the 3 Series will keep everyone ideally comfortable with its standard Automatic 3-zone climate control. The standard dual-zone automatic climate control in the ES doesn't compare.

Whether you're heading into the office, out for a night on the town, or taking on a road trip, connectivity is key. That's why both sedans come with a long list of connective features including:

• Bluetooth®
• Apple CarPlay™
• Android Auto
• SiriusXM®
• Navigation

The BMW connected technology inside the 3 Series has a few advantages when it comes to how user-friendly the system is. It all starts with the touchscreen display. Its standard 8.8-inch display beats out the 8-inch display in the ES. It also comes with the multi-input iDrive 7.0 system, which gives you more control over your connective features.

BMW 3 Series vs Lexus ES: Safety Systems

Both luxury vehicles are well-matched in the safety game. They both come with Frontal Collision Warning and Automatic Braking. These systems will alert you to a potential frontal collision. If you don't react in time, they can engage the brakes to possibly lessen the severity of the impact.

You will only get the Active Protection System with the BMW 3 Series. When this standard system detects an imminent collision, it can prepare the vehicle for impact by closing the windows, tightening the seat belts, and activating post-crash braking.

How do they perform in the parking lot? Both models come with a rear-view camera that can give you a better look at what lies behind the vehicle. They can also be outfitted with parking sensors in the front and the rear that can alert you when you get too close to a potential obstacle.