The new generation 2018 Lexus ES 300h has an overhauled exterior complementing the revised interior and mechanical bits
Lexus’ India division has launched the seventh-generation ES hybrid sedan in the domestic market for a price of Rs. 59.13 lakh (ex-showroom, pan India). Bookings are taken from today onwards across all the authorised dealerships of the Japanese luxury brand. The outgoing ES 300h was introduced in March 2017 when the company was very new to India.
The new version, however, builds on its predecessor but it has a completely revised exterior and rides on a brand new chassis altogether. The ES series is popular overseas for its plushness and comfort along with a long list of features and the new-gen model does not disappoint in those aspects either.
The 2018 Lexus ES 300h derives power from the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that is combined with the fourth-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive System. Lexus highlights the all-new Global Architecture – K (GA-K) platform as the main attraction in the new ES 300h.
The GA-K platform is claimed to have given the designers the flexibility to create a vehicle that’s as visibly striking and you cannot argue against it. The new ES 300h has a sporty low-slung stance and proportions reflecting its performance capabilities.
It comes equipped with slimmer LED headlights with distinctive L-shaped marker lights, more aggressive bumper section and fog lamp assembly as well as the signature spindle front grille. On the inside, the driver’s control panel and display are moved closer to the driver for providing extra space for the front passenger.
The rear passengers are treated with an extended legroom of 998.6 mm, courtesy of the longer wheelbase. Lexus says the console mounted climate and audio controls, adjustable and heated semi-aniline seats, and 17-speaker Mark Levinson Pure Play system are based on human centered design principles.
The Takumi craftsmanship is visible in the new ES 300h with the soft padding of the instrument panel, where each stitch is embedded into materials for a 3-D effect. The cockpit features a seven-inch LCD instrument panel with a large analog tachometer, digital speedometer and an easy-to-read multi-information display, in addition to a fully adjustable color heads-up display that projects relevant vehicle info onto the windshield.
The navigation system on the 12.3-inch Electro Multi Vision (EMV) full-size display, and the wireless charger built into the new ES, further aid in reducing road distractions. There is also a new rack-assist type Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, and the ES provides a Drive Mode Select system with Eco, Normal and Sport modes.
The new ES 300h features fourth generation Euro 6 compliant Hybrid Drive system coupled with the four-cylinder petrol engine. Making more power than the outgoing model. With improved linear acceleration, the combined power output is rated at 214 hp and a claimed mileage of 22.37 kmpl.
The luxury executive sedan packs advanced safety features such as class-leading 10 airbags, Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, and Anti-theft system, with break-in and tilt sensors. MacPherson struts are used at front, besides a trailing arm and a multilink setup in the back with stabilizer bars at each end. The reconfigured rear suspension allows for increased luggage space at 454 litres with an auto-open trunk, that also gives room to a full sized spare wheel.
The cabin also gains four different paint jobs and three types of trim in addition to the slew of nine eye-catching exterior paints. Along with Black, Chateau and Topaz Brown, the ES also introduces a light new Rich Cream interior offering striking contrast to the deep brown dash and roof trim. The ES offers two shades of Shimamoku wood trim (black, brown), as well as light-colored Bamboo.