Lexus has introduced the eighth generation ES sedan in Mzansi, and the new model comes with a lot more technology, features, and a wide variety of engine options to choose from. It is a significant expansion of choice in the luxury sedan segment: customers can select the flexibility of a hybrid powertrain or make the transition to fully electric driving without stepping away from the refinement, comfort, and craftsmanship that define the Lexus experience.
The sedan debuts the brands new design language
Lexus have finally made a completely new design change which is something we are not used to as the brand usually sticks to subtle tweaks over complete overhauls. The new gen ES sports what Lexus describes as “Clean Tech x Elegance” which takes much inspiration form the Lexus LF-ZC battery-electric concept, the styling moves toward a minimalist, aerodynamic approach while retaining executive presence.
It is refreshing to find a sedan nowadays
At the front is an evolution of the now signature, Lexus Spindle Body grille which is fully closed off in the application as a signal of there being a full BEV variant available. The closed off grille is further accentuated by slim twin L Signature DRLs that separate from the main beams which are places just below, encased in a contrasting gloss panel just like you have on the Lexus RZ.
At 5,140 mm long, 1,920 mm wide and 1,555 mm (1,560 for the ES 350e) high, the ES is substantially larger than before from the side view. Its 2,950 mm wheelbase is 80 mm longer, while overall length has increased by 165 mm and width by 55 mm. Some more side view features to note are the semi-flush door handles, HEV models are fitted with 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, while the fully electric ES 350e SE moves to 21-inch multi-spoke wheels, and up to six exterior colours are available across the range, including Crystal Blue, Graphite Black, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Iridium and White Nova.
The rear morphs into a minimalistic space that incorporates a new Lexus ICON lighting signature lighting that spans the entire boot width whilst incasing the Lexus logo lettering within it. The clean back is finished off by sharp creasing begining from the rear wheel arches along the redesigned lower bumper.
The interior space shall be minimalistic as well
In here, there are no more clearly placed dials or buttons; instead, what is left of them can now be located on the new design multifunctional steering wheel or embedded in the screen. The dash is now dominated by a new 12.3-inch TFT LCD meter accompanied by a new cut-out style driver's display featuring all of your important vitals, all the while being highly configurable and changeable to the driver's preference.
There are still buttons just hidden in the car. Lexus introduces a new "Hidden Switch" placement which reflects the brand's Omotenashi hospitality principle. This simply means buttons here are intelligently tucked away beneath some surfaces of the dashboard upholstery and remain invisible when the vehicle is switched off. Luckily, these buttons are not just haptic feedback responsive, but they are actually buttons that need a firm hard press to activate.
Depending on grade, the ES offers heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic roof with electric shade, a digital inner mirror, rear sunshades, wireless smartphone charging, enhanced interior illumination and Lexus' Auto Climate Concierge. The SE grades add further layers of luxury, including Bamboo Layering, active noise control, a Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor and Automatic Parking.
TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS THE DRIVER
The ES combines its engineering development with a comprehensive suite of technologies designed to support the driver without complicating the driving experience. The latest Lexus Safety System+ 4 incorporates the Pre-Collision Safety System, Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, Road Sign Assist and Adaptive High-Beam technology.
A new Driver Monitor Camera provides additional monitoring, while Front Cross Traffic Alert helps provide greater awareness when entering intersections or situations where visibility may be restricted. Depending on grade, the ES also incorporates Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Parking Support Alert Brake and other driver-assistance systems. The objective is to provide additional information and support while keeping the driving experience intuitive.
Local engines and availability in Mzansi from launch
Locally, the new ES is available in three derivatives: the ES 350h EX, ES 350h SE and ES 350e SE. The ES 350h variants are powered by Lexus' latest 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid system, while the ES 350e SE introduces the first fully electric ES to the South African market.
ES 350h EX: A STRONG STARTING POINT
The ES 350h EX forms the entry point to the South African ES range, but its specification is anything but basic. Power comes from a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid system driving the front wheels through an E-CVT. The petrol engine produces 139 kW and 235 Nm, while total system output is 182 kW.
ES 350h SE: AN ELEVATED LUXURY EXPERIENCE
The ES 350h SE retains the 182 kW hybrid powertrain but adds a more extensive specification focused on comfort, convenience and refinement. The exterior mirrors gain memory, electrochromic dimming, reverse linkage, automatic folding and heating.
ES 350e SE: THE ES GOES FULLY ELECTRIC
At the top of the South African range is the ES 350e SE, bringing the character of the Lexus luxury sedan into an entirely electric environment. The ES 350e uses a front-mounted electric motor producing 167 kW and 268 Nm. Power comes from a 74.69 kWh battery, providing an electric range of up to 615 km on the NEDC cycle. For longer journeys, DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 0 to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
PRICING
Lexus ES 350h EX: R1 051 200
Lexus ES 350h SE: R1 232 700
Lexus ES 350e SE: R1 561 000
The new ES is sold in South Africa with a seven-year/105,000 km warranty and seven-year/105,000 km maintenance plan. Both the hybrid and battery-electric batteries receive an eight-year/160,000 km warranty. This ownership package provides additional reassurance as customers choose between hybrid and fully electric power.