The Lexus remains one of automaker’s core models and accounted for one-fourth of its vehicle sales in 2020.
The ES is known for its smooth performance and its spacious and comfortable cabin. These qualities are enhanced in the latest iteration of the 32-year-old model, which was just made available in the Philippines.
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Since it was first unveiled in 1989, 2.65 million Lexus ES units have been sold worldwide. It remains one of Lexus’s core models and accounted for one-fourth of its vehicle sales in 2020.
Improvements can be found inside of the cabin, with Lexus’ vaunted “Seat in Control,” driver-centric concept taking the lead. All the controls are within reach and all information the driver needs is in plain view.
The new ES also embraced human-centered updates to the Lexus Multimedia System. Additional interior updates include a streamlined instrument panel design that was made to make cabin integration seamless.
Behind the wheel, the ultimate goal is, according to the automaker, to deliver a new generation of Lexus vehicles that is more balanced, refined in control, and confident than ever before.
The ES continues the Lexus Driving Signature philosophy with additional performance updates, including an enhanced rear suspension member brace further improving torsional rigidity, handling stability, and ride comfort.
Its brake system has also received updates on both petrol and hybrid models. The brake pedal shape has been enlarged on all ES models to improve foot stability and confidence when the pedal is depressed.
On ES gas models, the vacuum brake system master cylinder and booster have been optimized to provide a more linear brake pedal feeling and response. The regenerative and hydraulic brake control characteristics of the Electronically Controlled Brake System (ECB) on ES hybrid models have also been optimized to improve pedal feeling when the brake pedal is released.
The ES exterior was also updated and features newly designed front grille and headlamps, while the interior has adopted new interior colors.
Power in safety
Lexus launched two variants locally: the ES 350 Premier (P4,728,000) and the ES300h (P3,758,000).
The ES 350 delivers strong and efficient performance from a 3.5-liter V6 engine that offers 302ps and 356Nm of torque. Mated to this is an 8-speed Direct-Shift Automatic transmission. Power is put to the ground through 235/45 R18 tires.
Other features unique to the ES 350 Premier variant are rain-sensing wipers; automatic trunk operation with a kick sensor; semi-aniline leather seats, driver and front passenger 10-way power seats, and front-seat ventilation systems.
Front and center is a 12.3″ Electro Multi Vision Touch Display which has Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Smartphone Linking and Miracast. Audiophiles will appreciate the high-end 17-Speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound. Wireless charging comes standard as well.
The ES 350 Premier is equipped with the Lexus Safety System (LSS), which addresses the three most common accident types: frontal collisions, lane departures, and nighttime accidents. Dynamic radar cruise control; adaptive high beams; lane-tracing assist with lane-departure alert; blind-spot monitor (BSM); and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) work in conjunction with an entire suite of standard luxury safety features.
Sporty and efficient
With significantly enhanced supple ride quality that has been an integral part of the ES DNA, the ES300h exhibits a newfound sportiness which thoroughly captures the ideals of the new generation of Lexus. At the heart of the car’s more athletic nature is the brand’s latest driving technology, namely, the GA-K platform and new-generation hybrid electric system.
After thoroughly analyzing human movements and responses, Lexus engineers have created a car that, as much as possible, serves as a natural extension to the driver’s body. The engineers focused especially on precisely executing the driver’s inputs, immediate vehicle response, and creating a comfortable cockpit.
The 2.5-liter inline-4 engine of the ES 300h is equipped with laser-clad intake valve seats, which permit increased airflow into the cylinder and an optimized intake port shape that increases the tumble-flow turbulence of incoming air and fuel for high-speed combustion.
The new engine achieves world-leading thermal efficiency, combining robust power delivery with excellent response to deliver superb fuel efficiency. Power and torque is rated at 178ps and 221Nm, respectively. The ES 300h rolls on 215/55 R17 tires.
The ES hybrid electric system achieves excellent fuel efficiency and powerful acceleration due to the new hybrid transaxle with improved efficient internal power flow and a higher-efficiency power control unit.
A new, more compact hybrid battery is located beneath the rear seats, contributing to ideal weight balance and low center of gravity, while maintaining cargo space. Total system output of the gasoline engine and electric motor is 218ps.
The interior features synthetic leather; 8-way power adjustment for driver and front passenger; HEV indicator; 8” Touch Display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Smartphone Linking and Miracast; plus, a 10-speaker premium sound system.
To learn more, visit lexus.com.ph.
