Lexus ES hybrid now more attainable

The ES has always been a car that I particularly like. Lexus South Africa updated its ES range in 2018, now though they have introduced a new option within the line-up, the ES 300h in EX grade.

What the h?

The 300h is the brand’s hybrid offering within the ES line-up. When Lexus initially launched the 300h they did so in SE guise which ultimately meant that the car was the flagship with all the bells and whistles added in. This, in turn, raised the price but now though the EX model aims to balance this. The EX model is the base or entry-level model. Don’t expect it to be jam-packed with features like on the ES, rather a more attainable price.

The design

Lexus designers are no strangers to featuring sharp, dominant and striking designs on their cars and the Lexus ES continues this design language. Upfront, the now-signature spindle grille catches the eye while the slim headlights with the now-iconic Lexus L-motif, LED daytime running lights, also give the car a noticeable presence. From the side, the new ES features a long, sleek look thanks to a low roofline and some neat character lines. The rear of the car is by far one of my most favourite angles thanks to a shapely boot lid and the L-shaped LED taillights. The 300h also benefits from 17-inch multi-spoke cast alloy wheels and a rear boot lid spoiler; it’s subtle and does not detract from the overall classy theme of the car.

Interior impressions

Inside the ES you are greeted with a spacious cabin, full of quality materials which give the car a solid feel. I was particularly impressed by how quiet the cabin was while driving and the plentiful leather and soft-touch plastics throughout. The facia is tastefully designed and atop features an 8.0-inch infotainment screen. Unfortunately, the not so user-friendly Lexus touchpad which controls the infotainment system is still found on the centre-console but thanks to the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, you don’t have to interact with it as much.

The EX offers Wi-Fi connectivity for the driver and passengers and although the higher grade SE derivative benefits from a Mark Levinson sound system, the 10 speaker Lexus Premium Audio system does the job rather well in the base model. Front passengers also benefit from seat warmers, however, it is the spaciousness of the interior that adds to the appeal of the 300h. Rear passengers can just about stretch out thanks to the ample legroom and boot space is rated at around 420-litres.

How does it make its power?

The 300h features Toyota’s fourth-generation self-charging hybrid drive system which helps the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre motor develop 160 kW and 221 N.m of torque. The hybrid system comes in handy when navigating bumper-to-bumper traffic, parking lots and other low-speed driving scenarios. The moment you require more power the petrol motor kicks in and the electric motors serve it with a little extra assistance. The battery is charged by the engines rejuvenating ability as well as from braking, thus no wall plugs are needed here.

According to Lexus the 300h will also return a fuel consumption figure of around 4.6l/100km but I, however, managed 5.7l/100km on the launch route. It’s worth noting that the ES is no performance car but once behind the wheel, you don’t get that ‘need for speed’ feeling, instead, the car sort of encourages you to take it easy. Is it the ideal companion after a long day? Absolutely.

Verdict

While these large sedans are becoming less popular on our roads I must admit that the Lexus ES is one of my favourite offerings in that it presents incredible value for money and comfort one would expect to find in a car double the cost. Lexus has made exceptional quality more accessible with this, the EX model grade at R774 300.

Warranty

The Lexus ES 300h in EX guise comes standard with a seven-year/105 000km warranty and a full maintenance plan.