2019 Lexus ES Preview – Experience Amazing with Global Debut of Next Generation

By Steve & Tamami Laser

Toyota launched the Lexus luxury division way back in 1989 with two cars: the flagship LS and the entry luxury ES sedan. With the all-new LS already in showrooms, Lexus staged the global reveal of the next-generation ES at the 2018 Beijing International Automotive Exposition (Auto China).

The all-new seventh-generation ES rides on a new platform and will offer an F Sport version (above) for the first time. Lexus says the new ES delivers everything that traditional Lexus buyers expect, along with elements that will draw those in who haven’t considered the brand before.

Bold new styling projects a sporty and elegant look with distinctive front fascias for each model. The ES 350 and 300h receive a spindle grille dressed with elegant vertical bars that radiate out from the center. While the ES 350 F Sport features a blacked-out cross-hatch pattern.

“The ES has always been an elegant luxury sedan,” says Yasuo Kajino, project chief designer. “For this generation, we have added daring design elements that challenge the traditional expectations of buyers.”

Under the hood, the ES 350 with updated D4-S fuel injection is rated at 300 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s teamed with a new 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. Lexus says that in select global markets (outside the U.S.) the ES 250 model will offer a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.

The ES 300h gains a new fourth-generation Hybrid Drive System. It combines an Atkinson cycle 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with a lighter, more compact, and more power-dense electric motor and self-charging hybrid system. Lexus quotes a combined 205 total system horsepower and projected 40 mpg in combined city and highway driving.

The redesigned interior is dressed for success. The ES 350 and 300h offer traditional materials like Bamboo and Shimamoku wood for a warm and inviting look. New metallic trim is used for the F Sport with a fluctuating wave pattern and three-dimensional appearance.

Luxurious cabin environments offer a choice of trims with Black, Chateau, Topaz Brown and new Rich Cream that blends cream seating with a brown headliner. With its longer wheelbase and lower roofline, Lexus has prioritized rear seat comfort with a lower hip point and reconfigured headliner.

When it goes on sale later this year, the new ES becomes the first Lexus to offer Apple CarPlay™ functionality allowing drivers to control their iPhone® via the center screen display or with Siri Eyes Free® voice control. Amazon Alexa® is also available, along with on-board Wi-fi powered by Verizon. The optional navigation system uses a big 12.3-inch display with a Remote Touch Interface trackpad.

For more information visit Lexus.com

Outside the U.S. visit Lexus International

Note: Features, specifications and launch timing is subject to change without notice

News source and photos courtesy of Lexus

Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com