We are on the fence of a Rx vs Es. We have a 2004 Rx that we live but time for a new car. Can't decide between these two (have one kid who is 6). Both have ample space. Did others cross shop these two?

 

I have two kids, 2 and 8.

In the last 3 years I went from an RX300, to an ES330, to my curent RX350. Both RXs=AWD, I live in the northeast and the FWD didn't quite cut it for me.

Are you shopping for brand-new/ year or two old?

I wouldn't go for an ES unless it was a '13 or newer (latest gen); the 07-12 IMO is bland, and if you're okay with FWD only.

I personally love my 3RX, styling, power, handling, perfect ride height, plenty of cargo space.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. We are comparing the latest versions of both and brand new. Think with discounts, the Rx is roughly 9-10k more than the ES!

 

We have both. A 13 RX and a 3 week old 15 ultra ES 350. I've been driving an RX for 10 years and I do love it but the new ES is just the ultimate in luxury.
I would recommend you at least test drive the ES and ask for one with the ultra luxury package. It cost more but definitely worth it. Even with the upgrade its about 10K cheaper than a new RX.

 

Had a 2013 ES - nice vehicle, but sat way too close to the ground. Difficult getting in and out of. But the worse of all, parking lots/garages. I scraped the underneath of the front bumper more times on those concrete rectangular blocks at the front of spaces because the bumper sat so low. Made me trade the ES in for another RX. I couldn't be happier.

 

They do both sit on a Camery platform.

 

While the RX sits on a platform based on the Camry, the ES now sits on the Avalon platform.

 

I believe all of the above are still the same K-platform.

 

I would buy an RX if space was of concern, as well as availability of AWD.
Otherwise, GS350 AWD would be on my list instead of the ES. Or an IS350 AWD.