The Lexus ES Is Proof of Exquisite Taste in Cars

The Lexus ES executive sedan sits right in the middle of the three models in the sedan lineup of the Japanese luxury brand. The midsize sedan categorization actually seems like a misnomer, since the newly refreshed ES feels closer in cabin room size to the flagship LS sedan. Whether you choose to sit behind the wheel or take it easy at the back, you’ll discover that the ES has generous legroom as well as headroom despite the coupe-like roofline. 

The new ES actually has two variants: a 3.5-Liter V6, 24-valve DOHC gasoline engine-powered ES350 Premier, and a hybrid electric ES300h variant. As in all Lexus sedans, the cabin is equipped with a very refined interior with lots of soft-touch surfaces and tastefully appointed wood paneling, which matches the exquisite tastes of the busy executive for which the ES is made. Even on rougher roads, suspension is very compliant with the right balance of engagement in dynamic driving situations. Lexus engineers say they have designed a more balanced and linear steering performance for a more intuitive and confident driving experience. 

While both ES variants are blessed with Lexus craftsmanship, as well as a driver-focused cabin, intuitive features for optimal operability and the Lexus Driving Signature, there are some additional features exclusive to the ES350 Premier variant. These include the Lexus Safety System+, which features the Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, Adaptive High-beam System, and Automatic High Beam. 

The ES350 Premier also gets the Lexus Navigation System with a 12.3-inch EMV (Electro Multi-Vision) touch display audio, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with 17 speakers, which is both MP3 and WMA play compatible, Clari-Fi and a QLS (Quantum Logic Surround) plus a wireless charger. Also exclusive to the more premium ES350 Premier is the 18-inch aluminum alloy noise reduction wheels. 

The V6 ES350 Premier is pure joy to drive. With a higher power output of 302ps, acceleration from zero to 100 kph takes just 7.3 seconds, while the 2.5-liter 16-valve 4-Cylinder DOHC hybrid ES300h is rated at 178ps and is just a hair slower at 8.9 seconds. It does make up for it in fuel consumption, though. Especially with today’s fuel prices, choosing a hybrid could be the best option. Priced at P3.758million, the latter is more competitively priced than the P4.728 million of the ES350 Premier. 

Choices for both variants come with an array of exterior and interior finish selections. The interior wooden trims come in Open Finish / Sumi Black, Brown Walnut, or Bamboo for the ES350 Premier, while the ES300h gets the 3D Film finish. The interior upholstery for the ES300h uses synthetic leather in hazel or black colors while the ES350 Premier uses semi-aniline leather that comes in four colors: rich cream, hazel, black or mauve. 

The successful executive knows quality when he (or she) sees it and the ES certainly doesn’t disappoint. It’s the kind of car made for those who have achieved something, offering quality, sophistication, and luxury at every turn. 

For more information about the ES check them out online or visit Lexus Manila at 3402 8th Avenue corner 34th Street North BGC.