For the first time ever, Lexus India has introduced the new seventh generation ES sedan a mere five months after its premiere at the 2018 Beijing Motor show in April. Timeline wise, that’s new territory. The new sedan is priced at Rs 59.13 lakhs (ex-showroom all-India). And this time, the ES has moved to Toyota’s new Global Architecture – K (GA-K) platform which makes it lighter and bigger than before. The Japanese sedan has taken the CBU route to India and it comes as an exquisite alternative to the German executive sedans like the 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6. So, without much dilly-dallying, just like Lexus India, let us have a detailed look at the ES 300h and see why you should choose it over the German trio.
What’s good about it?
The new-gen ES adopts the imposing Spindle grille from the larger LS which lends it a lot more street presence than before. Now, it looks like a scaled down LS which isn’t a bad thing since you can have the same look at less than half the cost. Compared to its rivals, the ES looks opulent and exclusive.
Being Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus offers a very unique cabin experience inspired by their Japanese heritage. The Takumi craftsmanship is seen inside the cabin with little details such as Shimamoku wood combined with light-coloured bamboo and different types of regal upholstery and handcrafted materials. In keeping with the tradition, the cabin is spacious and opulent. The driver-focused cabin gets a massive 12.3-inch screen with navigation. The highlights of the long features list are console mounted climate and audio controls along with adjustable and heated semi-aniline seats, and 17 speaker Mark Levinson Pure Play system.
The new hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 215bhp has a claimed mileage of 22.37kmpl. In terms of safety, the ES 300h is offered with class leading features like 10 airbags, Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, and Anti-theft system.
What’s not so good?
The ES sedan is only available in a single 300h trim. However, the hybrid powertrain uses the fourth-generation Hybrid Drive system which is Euro VI-compliant. There won’t be any diesel or standard petrol variant on offer.
Pricing wise, it comes at a slight premium over its German counterparts which are all locally produced. Secondly, Lexus is yet to establish the same levels of after-sales service in the country compared to the other established carmakers.
Best variant to buy?
There is only one – the 300 h.
Specification:
2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
Hybrid Drive with an electric motor
The combined output of 212bhp and 213Nm
E-CVT transmission powering the front wheels
Did you know?
The ES badged sedan has been produced by Lexus since 1989. The ES name stands for "Executive Sedan". However, some Lexus importers across different markets use the backronymic name, "Elegant Sedan".
