The new, seventh-generation Lexus ES has touched down in South Africa, with the local line-up comprising two derivatives at launch.
Running on the brand’s new GA-K platform, the front-wheel-drive ES is a full 66 mm longer and 46 mm wider than its forebear, while its wheelbase has grown by 51 mm. Lexus says this new platform has also endowed the ES with “sharpened performance”. It arrives soon after Lexus SA removed the GS sedan from its line-up.
In South Africa, the new Lexus ES range comprises the ES250 EX for R593 300 and the ES300h SE for R843 800.
The former employs a naturally aspirated 2,5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine sending 152 kW and 243 N.m to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model takes a claimed 9,1 seconds to hit 100 km/h from standstill, before topping out at 210 km/h.
Standard features for the ES250 EX include 17-inch alloys, bi-LED headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, reversing camera, leather trim and as many as ten airbags.
The hybrid ES300h SE, meanwhile, combines its 2,5-litre petrol unit with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, for a total system output of 131 kW and 221 N.m. According to Lexus, it takes 8,9 seconds to hit three figures, with a top speed of 180 km/h.
The hybrid model boasts 18-inch alloys, uprated headlamps, a memory function for the side-mirrors, wood interior door trim, posher leather, a pre-crash system, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, a navigation system and wireless smartphone charging.
Both models boast a warranty and maintenance plan extending seven years or 105 000 km, with service intervals of 15 000 km.
