More luxury, more safety, greater body rigidity and a stronger design identity all feature on the 2016 Lexus ES series which arrives here later this year.
The midsized luxury sedan will continue to be available in hybrid ES 300h and ES 350 petrol engine models.
Lexus’ signature design feature, the one piece spindle grille is bolder and more strongly styled, tying the front of the car together. There are new LED headlights and fog lights relocated to the corners to accentuate its wide stance.
From the rear the 2016 ES series has distinctive L-shaped taillights and new chrome rectangular exhaust outlets and new 17-inch alloy wheels.
Starting with 10 standard airbags, the Lexus ES offers exemplary safety though its robust structure and a wide array of driver-assist technologies.
For 2016, the new Lexus Safety System + Package combines the Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam (AHB) and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. While, Whiplash Injury Lessening engineering remains a feature to the front seats decreasing the severity of whiplash injuries in rear end collisions.
In the cabin there are new soft touch materials, dashboard and door trims and new colours to provide a richer appearance. A sportier steering wheel is fitted and the Multi Information Display (MID) increases to 4.2”.
Vehicle connectivity is enhanced combined with new upgraded audio systems. Side Enter buttons are added to the remote touch interface enabling a greater range of operating methods which include climate control, audio with USB and iPod connectivity and Bluetooth, phone and navigation.
More spot welds and bracing has been added to the lightweight high tensile strength steel body to improve rigidity and enhance handling and stability, while opposite wound coil springs in the suspension remain.
The ES 300h continues with a 2.5-litre four cylinder motor combined with an electric motor and electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission.
The ES 350 has a 3.5 litre V6 engine and six speed automatic transmission.
Full specification and pricing will be announced at the time of launch later this year.
