Ensuring a smooth ride with a new suspension

Now this signature quality has been taken to an even higher level thanks to a detailed and innovative approach to suspension design and packaging for the all-new model, which launched in SA early October.

Lexus introduced a new swing-valve shock absorber, with a world-first ultra-low velocity valve on the new ES. This innovation makes sure an appropriate damping force is provided when even the slightest movement is experienced in the car’s wheels and suspension, ensuring a comfortable, unruffled ride and a stable feel, whether you are pulling away slowly or driving at speed on the highway.

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The benefit is gained from the way the flow of oil is controlled inside a new valve arrangement. As well as a main valve, the ES’s shock absorbers have an additional ultra-low velocity valve, which allows for very low oil speed operation.

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At low to high oil speeds, the main valve opens to suppress the damping force, giving supple ride comfort. Delivering superior standards of both handling stability and ride comfort is a big ask, but it was a challenge Lexus was ready to meet by drawing up a new double-wishbone rear suspension design.

Critically, the system’s trailing arms have been located with pinpoint accuracy to give the set-up the rigidity it needs to give true, linear steering response to the driver’s use of the wheel and excellent handling stability.

Much of the testing to evaluate the new ES’ ride and handling was done on winding routes as well as urban streets with rough surfaces.

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Further testing was carried out on track, including at the famous Nürburgring, and in California. At the same time as Lexus’ engineers determined the optimum suspension performance, they also took care to produce a design that does not compromise the size or convenient shape of the boot.

To meet this requirement, they placed the shock absorbers closer to the back of the rear seats and mounted them separately from the coil springs.

The all-new Lexus is available in two model grades; ES 250 EX and ES 300h SE. Both models come standard with a best-in-class 7-year/105 000km warranty and full maintenance plan.