Lexus India has launched the next-generation ES 300h at Rs 59.13 lakh (ex-showroom, India). The new model is based on Lexus’ front-wheel-drive Global Architecture-K – a derivative of parent company Toyota’s TNGA platform that comes with updated styling inside and out, more kit and a more powerful hybrid powertrain.
The new ES features a bolder look with Lexus’ trademark spindle grille taking centre stage. Design cues have been borrowed from the brand’s flagship LS sedan with larger (yet sharper) LED headlights and a more dynamic rear end. The new-design 18-inch alloy wheels are larger than the previous model. There are nine exterior paint finishes on offer with the new ES.
The cabin of the new ES has seen the most significant updates. The dark brown dashboard tilts slightly towards the driver. Mounted dead-centre of the dashboard is a 12.3-inch infotainment system that can be operated via a touchpad and voice-recognition technology. The 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster has been borrowed from the larger LS sedan and shows the various available drive modes. The new ES also boasts a longer wheelbase than the outgoing model, liberating 998.6mm of legroom at the rear. Lexus offers four interior colour schemes (Black, Chateau, Topaz Brown and Rich Cream) and three different types of cabin trims (a Shimamoku wood trim in black and brown, and a lighter-colored Bamboo trim) with its new sedan.
There’s more kit on offer with the new ES, as well. The front seats get a heating function and can be slid forward via a button mounted on the B-pillar. Meanwhile, the rear seats now get a power-recline function. There’s a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Pure Play system offered as standard. The safety kit – while unchanged from the previous model, is still excellent by class standards – includes 10 airbags, hill-start assist and stability control. While the international-spec model gets a space saver, the Indian model gets a full-size spare tyre.
Under the bonnet of the new ES 300h is a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that works in conjunction with an improved version of the electric motor. In the new sedan, it is available in a 218hp state of tune (a 16hp increase over the previous model) and is also Euro-VI-compliant.
Bookings for the new ES 300h have begun today.
Also see:
2017 Lexus ES 300h video review
2017 Lexus ES 300h review, test drive