The epitome of attainable luxury

Boasting a sportier visage, bolder rear styling, refined interior decor, updated finishes and enhanced dynamics, the new ES really is a package that lives up to its “more is more’’ billing. The fact that it’s offered at an even more attractive starting price, is just a bonus.

Rejuvenated facial features

The rejuvenated facial features of the new ES comprise Lexus’ trademark spindle grille framed in brilliant satin chrome and a pair of newly designed headlights, now equipped with LED projector technology. The sleek shape continues with the ES’ graceful roofline that flows effortlessly to the rear, where a modernised tail light design evokes the L-shaped theme, furnishing an instantly recognisable glow.

To compliment the impactful new form, two new 17-inch wheels with directional spoke patterns have been developed. A branching dark-grey metallic, multi-plane machined 20-spoke wheel is standard on the ES 250, while the ES 350 is distinguished by a 10-spoke rotary design with machine finish over medium grey.

Sheer quality with every touch

Lexus frankly has no equal when it comes to fit and finish. Sweeping dashboard architecture, intuitive ergonomics mated with the finest materials and a suite of standard spec, the ES  cultivates a feeling of sheer quality with every touch.

A new, smaller-diameter sporty steering wheel provides better driving engagement. A larger 4.2-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) colour multi-information display conveniently places vital vehicle information as well as multimedia information front and centre. Other standout features include wall-to-wall leather with high-quality stitching and new embossed pattern.

The ES also shares many features with the GS such as the analogue clock, ambient lighting and the Nano-e climate system. Additional standard niceties include a moonroof, remote keyless entry, power seats with seat heaters (driver’s seat memory), electrochromatic mirror, back guide monitor with smart camera (new) and PDC.

Magic carpet ride with a refreshing dynamic twist

The new 2016 ES upholds that tradition – dare one say it, even enhancing comfort – but provides a refreshing twist in the form of enhanced dynamics. Under the skin it’s business as usual, which means you’re getting a finely fettled machine adhering to the very highest standards of quality and performance.
The ES 250 is powered by Lexus’ velvety smooth 2,5-litre Dual VVT-i twin-cam four-cylinder engine that produces 135kW@6000r/min and 235Nm@4100r/min. With the aid of the standard six-speed auto, the Lexus ES 250 dispatches the obligatory 0-100 sprint in under 10 seconds (9,8 seconds to be precise) and can exceed 200km/h. The rotary drive-mode selector allows the driver to access ECO, NORMAL, or SPORT settings.

The Lexus ES 300h sees a 2,5-litre single VVT-i twin-cam Atkinson cycle four-cylinder unit (118kW@5700r/min and 213Nm@4500r/min) joining hands with a 105kW electric motor that’s fed by a 650V nickel-metal hydride battery for a combined 151kW output. Equipped with an ECVT system, the Lexus ES 300h clocks the 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds before being electronically reigned in at 180km/h. Naturally fuel economy is superb – it sips a mere 5,5l/100km in the combined cycle.

On the safety front, the new ES provides a wealth of advanced passive and active safety features, such as 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring with lane-change assist, vehicle- stability control, ABS with EBD and brake assist and Isofix child-seat anchorages. Last but not least – yes, what? It’s actually more affordable! Believe it or not, yes, the new ES does actually carry a smaller price tag than the outgoing model.