Since it first appeared, the Lexus ES has been among the most popular models in the brand’s range. In fact, it was one of the first two models the luxury brand offered when it started in 1989, the other being the LS flagship. The current generation, launched in 2018, is the seventh one and as is normal practice, updates are now due. Key enhancements for the latest model include cosmetic changes that refresh the appearance, with improved comfort as well.
For the Malaysian market, Lexus Malaysia is importing the ES 250 in three variants – Premium, Luxury and F-SPORT. The prices (without insurance) are RM295,663.50, RM329,910.50 and RM345,134.00, respectively. If purchased and registered before the end of 2021, half of the sales tax will be exempted.
“As one of the most accomplished executive sedans on the road, the Lexus ES 250 elicits admiration for its impeccable engineering and styling that satisfies any discerning taste. Combined with the Lexus attention to detail and constant quest for excellence, the improvements to the updated model will invariably retain the Lexus ES 250 as the choice sedan to arrive in,” said President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
Revised grille design
The ES is recognisable by its sleek coupe-style silhouette with the imposing spindle grille that identifies every member of the Lexus family. For the latest model, the signature grille fewer vertical bars and L-shaped patterns that emphasize lateral flow. It’s something that might not be noticed at a glance but will be apparent when you look at it long enough.
For the sportier F-SPORT version, the grille is different as well and has a mesh pattern composed of interlocking L elements with a dark metallic finish. Cut-outs at each corner of the front fascia also contain the black finish mesh with wider openings than the other two versions.
To complement the revised front grille, the headlamps have also received some restyling. For Premium version has Bi-LED Projector units with new inner bezel design. The Luxury and F-SPORT have ultra-compact 3-beam LED projector units with a distinctive Daytime Running Light design.
Besides exclusive exterior fittings that include a rear spoiler, the F SPORT also has its own set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a Dark Premium Metallic finish.
Enhancements within
The ES interior has been noted for spaciousness and comfort, especially for the rear passengers. Thanks to the intelligent interior packaging and a generous wheelbase, the level of spaciousness is comparable to larger models.
The dashboard has been updated with a new multimedia display for improved operability. The full colour 12.3-inch touchscreen (8 inches in the Lexus ES 250 Premium) has been repositioned closer to the occupants and turned 5 degrees towards the driver. As before, the multimedia system includes Navigation services for the Lexus ES 250 Luxury and also the new F SPORT.
With more portable electronic devices having the newer USB Type-C connector, the ports on the new ES are upgraded to Type-C providing easier connection without the need for adapters. The new models also now come with a Nanoe-X negative ion generator that improves cabin air quality – the first Lexus model to introduce this feature as standard.
For the F-SPORT, exclusive features are the light-emitting analogue clock with its own unique graphics, while the meter has an electric movable metal ring with a 3-D effect. The idea was first used in the Lexus LFA supercar and is found in other F SPORT variants too. The F-SPORT package includes a leather-covered 3-spoke steering wheel, dimpled leather-trimmed shift knob and sporty aluminium pedals and footrest
Proven powertrain
All three versions use the same 2.5-litre DOHC petrol engine (A25A-FKS), a proven unit with an output of 204 ps/247 Nm. Since the first generation, the ES has had front-wheel drive and continues with it, with power delivered to the wheels via a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission. For more efficient transmission performance, there is a Direct Connected Downshift feature which allows the transmission to skip gears when large throttle openings are detected (eg, when overtaking on the highway).
While the MacPherson strut front suspension and trailing-arm double-wishbone rear suspension are retained, the ride comfort and handling have been improved by increasing the rigidity (through adding a brace) of the rear suspension. Performance dampers are installed in the Luxury and F SPORT and these chassis-mounted dampers absorb even the smallest instances of frame compression and/or flex to keep them from generating any resonances that might generate interior cabin noise.
Improvements in Lexus Safety System+
One element of the Lexus ES 250 that hasn’t been radically transformed is its dedication to safety. All versions feature Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) as standard and for the latest model, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) has been enhanced daytime bicyclist detection by both a millimetre-wave radar and a monocular camera sensor. Pedestrian identification in certain low-light situations is also improved by increasing the camera’s sensitivity and dynamic range.
The other elements of LSS+ are Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function; Lane Keeping Assist; Lane Tracing Assist and Lane Departure Alert; and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) which uses advanced BladeScan technology.
To know more about the new ES 250 range, visit www.lexus.com.my.
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