Lexus has revealed the all-new eighth generation Lexus ES at the Shanghai Auto Show.
Image: Supplied
Lexus has lifted the covers off the all-new eighth-generation Lexus ES at the Shanghai Auto Show, including a fully electric version.
It’s assembled on the company’s reimagined TNGA GA-K platform that is purpose built to accommodate both hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) powertrains.
Drivetrains
For the first time the ES 300h uses a 2.0-litre four cylinder engine combined with an electric motor for a total output of 145kW.
The ES 350h features an upgraded 2.5-litre hybrid engine with an all-wheel drive option delivering 183kW or 148kW.
The BEV ES 350e produces 165kW with a claimed range of 685km.
All variants are all driven by the front wheels except the electric ES 500e that gets a motor on the rear axle and produces 252kW with a range of 610km.
All variants are fitted with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Behind the steering wheel is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Image: Supplied
Exterior and interior
The ES gets a new Twin L-Signature headlamp and tail lamp designs, alongside Lexus’ evolved Spindle Body front-end to improve aerodynamics.
It’s grown in size which has improved legroom and also allows a higher seating position.
The panoramic sunroof does away with a blind and is electronically dimmable with Low-E glass for heat and UV protection.
In keeping with the eco-friendly theme the interior is fitted with synthetic leather and what they call Bamboo Layering and has a fragrance system featuring bamboo-based scents.
Behind the steering wheel is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and it’s fitted with a 14-inch infotainment system linked to a Mark Levinson sound system.
“More than a car”
The rear seats are able to recline, there’s ottoman functions, ambient lighting and a Sensory Concierge system that they say “is more than a car interior; it’s a haven of calm”.
To improve the ride quality Lexus has reworked the suspension and structural rigidity and added a new multi-link rear suspension with Dynamic Rear Steering technology.
It sports the most advanced version of the Lexus Safety System+ with new features that include upgraded object recognition, broader sensor coverage, and clearer driver alerts.
Lexus South Africa has confirmed that the ES will arrive in 2026 but specification levels and pricing will only be known closer to the time.