Acura CL vs Lexus ES
The short answer
Based on available data, the Lexus ES comes out ahead of the Acura CL on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
CL
Overall
Owners of the Acura CL broadly praise the car's durability and long-term reliability, with many reporting high mileage examples still running well. The manual transmission models, particularly the Type S, are held in high regard as fun and dependable. However, the automatic transmission, especially in V6 models, is widely criticized as a serious weak point that owners say will eventually fail.
Best version to buy
The 2003 Acura CL Type S with the 6-speed manual transmission is the consensus best version, described as "bulletproof" and fun to drive. Owners specifically praise the manual transmission as avoiding the automatic's failure issues.
Known issues
- Automatic transmission failure: Frequency: very frequent. Owners across multiple discussions report that automatic transmissions, especially in V6 models, are prone to failure and should be avoided. Manual transmissions are not affected.
ES
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability, low operating costs, and a comfortable, quiet, and refined driving experience. The ES is consistently praised as a durable, low-stress luxury sedan ideal for high-mileage commuting and long-term ownership. Owners highlight its superior interior materials, sound deadening, and feature content compared to its Toyota platform siblings (Camry, Avalon).
Best version to buy
The hybrid model (ES 300h) is frequently recommended for its significant fuel economy gains (approximately 40 city / 39 highway mpg cited) over the V6, smoother operation, and suitability for commuting. For the V6, later model years (e.g., 2017+) within a generation are often preferred for updates.
Known issues
- Infotainment touchpad interface: described as annoying, difficult to use; preference for post-2022 touchscreen models. Frequency: recurrent.
- Steering rack leaks: noted on higher-mileage examples (e.g., 2010 model with 137k miles). Frequency: isolated.
- CV axle boot leaks: reported after extended high-speed driving. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Lexus ES is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Acura CL, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Acura CL is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura CL or the Lexus ES?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura CL and the Lexus ES. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura CL or the Lexus ES?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Acura CL is classed as a Coupe, the Lexus ES as a Sedan, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura CL or the Lexus ES?
The EPA rates the 2003 Acura CL at 20–21 mpg combined and the 2026 Lexus ES at 44–46 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura CL or the Lexus ES?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Acura CL than the Lexus ES. See the known issues comparison above.