I recently acquired a new 2024 Lexus ES350. Lately, I've noticed that when I release the accelerator pedal and the car coasts, the deceleration is not very even. During the deceleration process, I feel that in the latter part, there is a slight increase in coasting speed, making the entire deceleration process not very smooth. This issue also occurs when I lightly tap on the brake for deceleration. If I apply the brakes heavily, the deceleration is quick and uniform.

I saw similar issues reported on Reddit with es300h, where users mentioned that it could be due to the transition from regenerative braking to regular braking causing a jolt. Is this also the case with purely gasoline-powered cars? Should I discuss this with the dealer? Thank you in advance!

 

Are you feeling the trans downshifting?

 

Does downshifting feel like a gentle deceleration? What I feel is a subtle momentum change, and for me, it feels more like a slight acceleration/faster coating . Because this is a new car I just got, I was actually testing paddle shifter and did a couple times engine braking few days ago. I am not sure if this was learnt by the transmission system and lead to my current feels..

 

The 8 speed trans in this car is active and can be turbulent at times especially on downshifts. I'm guessing that's what you could be feeling. You'll get used to it. I hardly notice it after driving the car for five plus years and 72k miles.

 

I think Toyota needs to re-think and re-work their hybrid system. They took their hybrid system from 1997 and basically ran with it since. Car Care Nut reviewed Honda's new hybrid system and he praised it for how seamless, smooth, and refined it is. None of the jerkyness associated with Toyota's design. It's due to how Honda distributes their power using the engine as a generator basically. Kinda neat!

 

Can Honda drive on both engines at the same time?

 

The OP has a 350.