Lexus has unveiled the all-new 2013 Lexus ES, which is being shown in two versions today, the ES 350 and ES 300h hybrid.
“The Lexus ES brought new levels of refinement, sophistication and quality to the entry luxury segment when it entered the market in 1989, and through the years it has consistently been a sales leader for us,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “Now, with both gas and hybrid versions, the 2013 ES promises to lead Lexus forward once again.”
The 2013 Lexus ES is the latest model in the Lexus lineup to adopt Lexus’ new design language with the Lexus spindle grille. The face of the new ES gets LED daytime running lights and the rear lights reflect the “L” design motif. The new ES is lower than before, but thanks to a 1.8 inch longer wheelbase the interior is now more spacious.
According to Lexus, the more driver-focused interior of the new ES “has been designed to provide both a sense of openness and security. Sightlines and visibility are improved, controls are logically placed, and new cabin materials express a high level of craftsmanship.” The driver’s seat has been re sculptured to enhance driver comfort and buyers can choose between “green” NuLuze seating surfaces that have been developed to reduce environmental impact, genuine leather or semi-anline leather.
For the first time ever, the Lexus ES is going to available with Lexus Hybrid Drive. The ES 300h is powered by a a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system that is expected to earn an EPA fuel economy rating of approximately 40 mpg combined city/highway. The ES 300h hybrid offers the driver four modes: Normal, Sport, Eco and EV. EV mode allows short distance drives, at reduced speed, using only the power from the hybrid battery pack. The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5L V6 that is mated to a six-speed automatic.
The new ES will feature the next-generation Lexus Enform system that provides connectivity with Bing search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places through compatible smart phones. The available Display Audio package adds a seven-inch screen, a backup camera, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, Bluetooth audio, phone transfer, and a vehicle information display. The optional HDD Navigation System includes voice command and an integrated backup camera.
“The new Lexus ES 350 and ES 300h hybrid combine technology, style and performance to please current ES owners and attract new buyers,” said Templin. “With the addition of the ES 300h, Lexus truly offers something for everyone in the entry luxury segment.”
