For the first time, the ES omits a traditional combustion engine option, replaced by an equally novel electric powertrain to go with the updated hybrid.
Ahead of its market launch next month, Lexus has released complete specification details and pricing of the all-new ES on its website.
Approved for South Africa not long after its global launch at the Shanghai International Motor Show last year, the internally named XZ20 or eighth generation ES replaces not only its predecessor, but also the IS that ceased sales in March.
In addition, the XZ20 drops the combustion-only engine powertrain for a hybrid, while also introducing a fully electric option for the first time.
Still based on the TNGA-K platform, the new ES gains on all dimensional fronts compared to the outgoing XZ10, with the following measurements:
Length
: 5 140 mm;
Wheelbase
: 2 950 mm;
Height
: 1 555 mm;
Width
: 1 920 mm
This makes it 165 mm longer, 55 mm wider and 100 mm taller, with its wheelbase increasing by 80 mm.
New ES adopts a coupe-style roof design while also replacing the Lexus corporate logo with an illuminated light bar containing a block letter LEXUS script. Picture: Lexus
As a result of the new drivetrain, the EV has an overall height of 1 560 compared to the hybrid, with the rest of its dimensions being as is.
In terms of boot space, the hybrid offers up 441-litres, a drop of 13-litres from its predecessor, while the EV’s boot can accommodate 462-litres.
The first model to debut Lexus’ Clean Tech x Elegance styling language in South Africa, the local line-up comprises three variants and two trim levels, with the hybrid counting for two derivatives.
Available in both EX and SE grades, the hybrid again wears the ES 350h moniker and comprises the familiar combination of a normally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack.
Paired to a CVT, with drive going to the front wheels, the ES 350h outputs a combined 182 kW, which Lexus claims will see it get from 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 200 km/h.
Exclusive to the SE, the EV carries the new ES 350e designation, and derives motivation from a 74.6-kWh battery pack powering a single electric motor on the front axle.
The result is a combined output of 165kW/267Nm, which Lexus says will take the ES 350e from 0-100 km/h in eight seconds before topping out at 160 km/h.
The claimed all-electric range is 615 km, with DC charging support up to 150 kW. Accordingly, this will require a waiting time of 30 minutes from 0-80%, though making use of the on-board 22 kW AC charger prolongs the wait to three hours 19 minutes.
A no-no for now is the dual-motor all-wheel drive ES 500e, which develops 252 kW and will get from 0-100 km/h in a reported 5.9 seconds while still offering a range of 610 km.
On the specification front, the hybrid EX has the following equipped as standard:
Included on the safety and driver assistance spec sheet is:
Stepping up to the hybrid SE adds the following:
Interior is a dramatic departure from the previous generation ES. Picture: Lexus
Completing the range, ES 350e SE receives 21-inch alloy wheels, a sealed grille with active shutter, semi-aniline leather upholstery, a rear roller blind and Adaptive LED headlights.
In total, a choice of six colours is provided:
At the same time, buyers can opt for one of three interior colours: white, hazel, and black.
Launching on 14 October, all ES models are covered by a seven-year/105 000 km maintenance plan, with an eight-year/160 000 km battery warranty standard on the ES 350e only.
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