crb595

I am looking at both the ES350 and the ES300h. After driving both, I am not sure I can get used to the regenerative braking sound from the 300h when coming to a stop. How have other 300h owners reconciled the noise?

jim256

What noise? Do you mean the passive alert system that notifies pedestrians you are close-by? It only activates when the ICE is off and below about 25. It's a Fed mandate, I only hear it if the window is open, nothing but does what it is intended to do. Brakes only reverse the one motor generator, and switch to mechanical brakes at 7 mph or with heavy application.

atoyota

I much prefer that (and hardly notice it anyway) compared to hearing constant engine noise from an internal combustion engine.
EDIT: I had a ES350 loaner recently and hated that the engine was always on at stops and sub 30mph speeds and having to hear the engine run when ordinarily I would have enjoyed silence in the 300h.

jollick

Perhaps the OP means the slight whine you hear from the motor/generator. It is hardly noticeable and reminds me of a turbine car from back in the day. With my music playing I cannot hear it, only when there is complete silence and even then it is not detrimental IMHO.

crb595

Yes, that is the sound. Thanks for the replies. I am leaning to the 300h and agree with atoyota that the other benefits far outweigh my minor issue. I keep cars for 10+ Years so see the advantages of the 300h.

Arty101

I only hear the slight whine sound when the windows are open and the ICE is off. Not an issue with me, and I prefer the ICE off at stop lights too.

ElliotB

Turn the volume on the radio up a bit and you won't hear the noise.

Arty101

Or roll up the windows and hear peace and quiet.

Mhobizal

At first it was strange to me also. I have had my new ES300h now for 3 weeks. No big deal to me! I used to own an Acura TL. I love how quite my new Lexus is and the incredible gas mileage. I'm averaging 37.8 MPG so far.

ryoo1257

It's not as bad as engine knock!

don1

I consider it to be the satisfying sound of the battery being charged. It really is not all that noticeable most times.

mcomer

The GS actually ports engine sound into the cabin at high throttle setting...so you get what you paid for!
Perhaps Lexus will put in a sound track of Pink Floyd's "Money" to cover up the sound of regen charging!