Lexus ES 300h, new design and character for a model that aims to be more global

A few days ago, the Lexus ES was hinted at with an image showing part of its front end and now, on the occasion of the Auto China 2018 show, its image and first details have been revealed. The Lexus ES now comes to go global, to enter more and new markets, sharing the goal with the Lexus LS of attracting a wider variety of customers to the brand.

To achieve this goal, Lexus has revitalised the ES with a new, more modern design, along with all the technology and quality expected of a premium-category saloon. This new image starts from the development of a new platform called GA-K, a chassis that will rival the GA-L platform used in the LC and LS models in terms of rigidity, which allows an obvious dynamic improvement, also thanks to a new multi-link rear suspension design, rack-mounted electric power steering, a V-brace behind the rear seat and a Variable Adaptive Suspension similar to the one found on the LC, for the F Sport version of the new ES.

But the new GA-K platform does not only bring an evident dynamic improvement to the new ES, it also allows it to change and modernise its design, which is reflected in a lower bonnet line, giving it a distinctive silhouette lower than the previous one. The roofline has been designed to make its aerodynamic aims clear, resulting in a rear end with a sober and elegant design, something to which the new LED light cluster also contributes. All this design work can be complemented with a palette of 12 colours, to which the exclusive Electric Blue and Nova White for the F Sport version are added.

It is precisely in the F Sport versions that we will find logical design changes compared with the standard versions, always leaning towards a sportier look. For example, in the standard versions the grille will feature the new design with vertical bars, while in the F Sport versions we will find a black cross-hatch pattern. It will not be the only change: the F Sport versions will feature a rear spoiler, darkened badges and lower trim, and 19-inch wheels similar to those of the Lexus LC (the standard versions will have 17- and 18-inch wheels).

If we now look inside, we will see that the design has been carried out keeping the driver in mind at all times, placing all the elements the driver needs as close to them as possible, while maintaining the same horizontal design base. The changes are immediately noticeable in elements such as the dashboard, the centre console, the instrument cluster (which I have to say I really don’t like), all the button panels and the centre tunnel with the new gear lever. It will offer different upholstery tones to suit our tastes, and also adopt a metallic-tone finish for the F Sport versions.

In short, a more elegant and modern design, in keeping with the characteristics of this model, but also more technological, since the new 12.3-inch multimedia screen has been installed, with Remote Touch touch control, which also includes voice recognition with a mobile phone assistant and Lexus Connected technologies. The sound system is provided by no less than 17 PurePlay speakers signed by Mark Levinson, delivering unmatched sound quality and an atmosphere inside the cabin.

The new Lexus ES 300h also naturally adopts the latest generation of technologies included in the Lexus Safety System + package, which includes systems such as Daytime Cyclist Detection, an improved PCS system for detecting pedestrians at night, and the new AHS adaptive high-beam system, which improves lighting and reduces glare for drivers coming in the opposite direction.

Mechanically, the Lexus ES 300h will bring the fourth generation of the new self-charging hybrid system, which combines a 2,500 cc four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a new, lighter and more compact electric motor, achieving a total output of 218 CV and a consumption of 4.7 l/100 km. This new engine is distinguished by its higher thermal efficiency, making it possible to obtain more power without compromising emissions or consumption, which has been achieved by Lexus through changes such as the valve angle, laser-recut valve seats, multi-hole injectors and a variable cooling system, among others.

The new Lexus ES 300h has its presence in Europe confirmed, although for the time being the date of arrival in our market and the price have not been announced, so we will have to wait a little longer to learn these details.