2020 Lexus ES vs 2020 Nissan Maxima

The 2020 Lexus ES had evolved significantly from its earlier "boring" label. By 2020, it featured a more aggressive design, highlighted by a large spindle grille that integrated well with the car's larger proportions. The rear design was more subdued, with thin taillamps and a pronounced kink at the back of the side windows. Inside, the ES boasted a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen. Standard features included a power moonroof, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10-way power-adjustable front seat. The ES 350 F Sport trim added unique styling elements and performance features, making it a standout in the lineup.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima shared design elements with other Nissan models, featuring the signature V-Motion grille and jewel-like LED headlights. Its floating-roof design and quad-tip exhaust finishers added a sporty touch, especially in the SR trim with its rear spoiler. The Maxima's interior was well-finished, with the Platinum trim offering premium materials. The thick center console created a segmented front row, but the cabin remained spacious. Standard features included an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Maxima Platinum trim added luxury touches like semi-aniline leather and a Rakuda Tan steering wheel insert.

The 2020 Lexus ES came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed the ES to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. The ES prioritized comfort and refinement, with a suspension that absorbed road bumps effectively. The F Sport trim offered an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for a more dynamic driving experience, including a Sport+ mode that enhanced throttle and transmission response. While not a high-performance vehicle, the ES provided confident acceleration and precise steering.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima also featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite being marketed as a "four-door sports car," the Maxima excelled as a comfortable cruiser. Its Sport drive mode and paddle shifters (available only in the SR trim) added some engagement, but the Maxima was best suited for smooth, comfortable driving. The Maxima's front-wheel-drive setup and active noise cancellation technology contributed to a quiet and composed ride. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The 2020 Lexus ES offered a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console featured multiple storage compartments. The ES provided 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was mid-pack for the midsize luxury segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting cargo flexibility.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima provided comfortable seating and a spacious cabin, though the thick center console could feel intrusive. The front seats were wide and comfortable, suitable for long trips. The Maxima offered 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space, less than some competitors like the Toyota Avalon and Honda Accord. The Maxima's front in-door bottle holders could accommodate 20-ounce bottles, a handy feature for families. Despite its smaller cargo space, the Maxima handled daily tasks well, though it might not be ideal for those needing to transport large items frequently.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlling either an 8-inch or 12.3-inch display. While not a touchscreen, the Remote Touch pad was intuitive once presets were set. The system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing usability. The ES also offered a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was available, providing crisp graphics and customization options.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima came standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch driver information display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all models, while NissanConnect Services were available on the Platinum trim. An optional Bose Premium Audio system with 11 speakers was available. The Maxima also offered an Around View Monitor camera system, a power rear sunshade, and keyless entry. USB-A and USB-C ports were available in the front and rear, making charging devices convenient.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additional features included pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist. The ES also had a full array of airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, standard across all trim levels. This included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, intelligent forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, rear automatic braking, and a driver alertness monitor. Traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control were standard on all trims except the base model. The Maxima performed well in IIHS and NHTSA safety tests, earning top ratings in front crash prevention.