Basic Specs

Base FromTBA
Unveiling Not yet
Availability Expected late 2012
Status In Development
Engine Possible 3.5L V6
Body Style Sedan
Segment Near-Luxury
Size Midsize
By Andrew Ganz
Thursday, Apr 5th, 2012 @ 3:45 am

Lexus’ sixth-generation ES sedan will be available in two flavors, both of which the Japanese luxury automaker promises will be more engaging to drive than the outgoing model.

For the first time ever, Lexus is expanding its ES lineup to include a hybrid – dubbed the ES 300h – but the midsize entry-premium sedan remains based on Toyota’s popular Camry.

Spindle grille
The ES receives Lexus’ now-familiar “spindle grille” design, a look that debuted on the CT 200h. Generally, the ES’ overall shape doesn’t deviate far from its predecessor, although it appears lower and wider, much like the larger, rear-wheel-drive GS sedan. More pronounced wheel arches hint at increased performance, although the ES’ Camry-based architecture remains front-wheel-drive. Lexus will continue to rely on the smaller rear-drive IS to court sedan buyers focused on sporty handling.

Stretching about an inch longer overall, the 2013 ES benefits from a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase. Conventional ES 350 and hybrid ES 300h models are distinguished by unique rear bumpers; the 350 gets dual exhaust pipes, while the 300h receives an integrated spoiler and hidden exhaust pipes.

Inside, the outgoing car’s symmetrical dashboard has been thrown out the window in favor of a horizontal unit derived stylistically from both the CT and the GS. Like the Camry, the ES boasts improved rear seat room – nearly three inches of additional knee room – and an emphasis on decreased ambient noise thanks to substantial sound deadening.

Newly optional is ambient interior lighting, which Lexus says will be integrated below the wood trim on the instrument panel and all four doors. Low environmental impact NuLuxe seating surfaces will be standard, while leather and a premium semi-aniline leather will be optional. Lexus will offer the ES’ interior in black, light gray and a light tan, while available trims will include piano black, espresso bird’s eye maple and bamboo.

The ES gains a second generation version of Lexus’ Remote Touch Interface control, a computer mouse-style controller located on the center console. lexus-

A 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with an eight-inch screen will be optional, where it will replace a standard seven-inch display. Lexus’ Enform infotainment system, which is closely related to Toyota’s app-based Entune, offers connectivity through Bing, iHeartRadio, OpenTable, Pandora, Facebook Places and more. A full navigation system will also be on the option list.

Improved handling
A stiffer structure and a revised suspension with improved shock absorber damping will make the ES a more adept handler, Lexus says, while sharper steering with a reduced ratio will also be a part of the sedan’s package for 2013.

Lexus hasn’t released exact specifications for the ES’ standard gas and optional hybrid powertrains, but it’s expected that the two will essentially mirror those offered in the new-for-2012 Toyota Camry.

Weighing in at 3,549 lbs. (about 90 less than the outgoing model), the ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Look for about 268 horsepower and a 25 mpg combined figure. The 3,660 lbs. ES 300h, meanwhile, uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine mated to a CVT and a permanent magnet synchronous motor charged by a trunk-mounted Nickel Metal Hydride battery. The hybrid system should put out a combined 200 horsepower while netting a 40 mpg combined figure.

To capitalize on the more sporting nature of the new ES, Lexus will offer optional 18-inch high-gloss alloy wheels for the first time, although 17s will be standard.

Look for the 2013 Lexus ES 350 and ES 300h to hit the market toward the close of 2012.

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