NEW LEXUS ES 300H |

The seventh-generation Lexus ES

For over 30 years now, the Lexus ES executive sedan has thrilled drivers and passengers alike, with its exceptional level of quietness, refined ride and luxurious cabin. Launched alongside the first LS flagship sedan in 1989, the ES is a core model in the E-premium segment, attracting private and business drivers alike. Cumulative sales since its debut total are around 2.75 million cars and it is sold in more than 80 countries and regions.

New ES 300h

Launched in 2018, after close-to three decades of success in the executive sedan category, the seventh-generation model was the first ES to be sold in Western and Central Europe. Daringly provocative in its looks, this ES is built on the luxury brand’s much-acclaimed Global Architecture – K (GA-K) platform, which gave designers the opportunity to explore the limits of sedan design. For instance, the longer wheelbase enables the wheels to be pushed closer to the corners, with wider front and rear treads. The platform also allows for a lower bonnet and sweeping coupé roofline. The clean and sharply chiselled rear end, with LED lamps that wrap around the quarter panels, generates a continuous styling line.

In the new ES 300h , driver and passengers enjoy comfortable seats, with the figure-hugging sports seats on the ES 300h F SPORT inspired by those on the LC coupé. Whilst the Comfort and F SPORT grades have Tahara synthetic leather seats, the Executive and Luxury grades feature exquisitely finished leather. Important for relaxed business travel, the driver enjoys a natural steering wheel angle, pedal positions and optional 16-way seat. Carefully positioned in the driver’s field of vision are a Head-Up Display and 12.3-inch Lexus Premium Navigation. For music lovers, the car’s 17-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay system was created to deliver the purest audio experience yet, while rear seat comfort reaches new levels with over one metre of rear legroom in electrically adjustable heated seats, on the Luxury grade.

Setting benchmarks for safety, the ES 300h with its Lexus Safety System +, ultra-rigid platform and 10 airbags as standard, achieved the maximum 5-star safety rating in the 2018 Euro NCAP test results. Built at Lexus’ award-winning Kyushu plant in Japan and powered by fourth generation Lexus Hybrid Drive, the ES 300h is also available as an exciting ES 300h F SPORT model.

What’s new on the latest ES 300h?

Building on the success of the 2018 model, the new ES offers the next level of executive sedan design, performance and luxury. Owners will discover an evolution of the executive sedan’s design that now displays even more modern looks. Powered by the luxury brand’s 4^th generation Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid technology, the new ES 300h delivers lower emissions than conventional powertrains. Inside, drivers will discover high-quality craftsmanship, new materials/colours and a new 12.3” multimedia touchscreen display, that is more intuitive to use and repositioned for easier operation.

Pioneering safety technology is delivered by the latest Lexus Safety System + and new BladeScan Adaptive High-Beam System AHS, another world-first from Lexus. In keeping with its striking looks, driving feel has been enhanced by improved rear suspension and brake pedal design and – on F SPORT models – Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). Overall, there has been an evolution in refined ride comfort and an improvement in ‘linear responsiveness’ in line with the brand’s new dynamic performance benchmark: Lexus Driving Signature.

These improvements further reinforce the attractiveness of the ES 300h for business and fleet drivers, with segment-leading cost of ownership and 5% higher residual value after 36 months compared to its main competitors in the E-premium sedan segment.

Exterior Design

New Lexus signature grille: Reduced number of vertical bars and ensemble of L-shaped components makes for a bolder, more confident look
New headlights: Revised inner design creates a sharper expression while enhancing functionality
New wheels: Distinctive 17” and 18” wheels; exclusive 19” wheels for F SPORT grade
New colours: Stylish Sonic Grey and Sonic Platinum for all grades

Interior Design

New touchscreen: Display moved forward by 112mm and angled 5 degrees towards the driver, now with full touchscreen capability
New analogue clock: Adopted from LS flagship sedan and featuring L-motif pattern, it lends a premium feel to the ES cockpit
New controls: Repositioned and redesigned for smoother operation
New look instrument panel: Available in piano black with metallic details on the air conditioning panel
New colours: Forest Brown and Hazel for all grades; white/black interior for the F SPORT

Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid

Class-leading environmental performance: Powered by a 4^th generation Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid drivetrain, the ES 300h offers a dynamic yet refined drive. Delivering lower emissions than its petrol and diesel competitors – starting at 119 g CO₂/km and 5.2 L/100 km in the combined WLTP cycle, it will drive a significant portion of the time in zero emissions EV mode

Driving Dynamics

Improved brake control: Upgraded master cylinder and booster, increased pedal rigidity
Redesigned brake pedal: Reshaped pedal and enlarged foot pressure area
Revised rear suspension: New brace providing greater stability and ride comfort
Upgraded AVS on F SPORT: Enhanced Adaptive Variable Suspension that responds to how you feel

Technology and Connectivity

New 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen: Now available with highly anti-reflective glass, the system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto using Bluetooth
New Lexus Link app: Helps solve many mobility tasks for the business driver, such as recording business trips or hybrid coaching for driving even more efficiently

Safety and Driver Assist

Improved Lexus Safety System +: Building on a 5-star rating at Euro NCAP in 2018, the latest Lexus Safety System + makes the ES even safer to drive
Improved Pre-Collision System: Updated to expand the response range that detects cyclists during daylights hours and pedestrians in poor light conditions
New Emergency Steering Assist: Supports steering in an emergency, enhancing vehicle stability and preventing lane departure
Improved Lane Tracing Assist: Keeps the ES in lane while new AI technologies allow smoother operation
Enhanced Dynamic Driving Cruise Control: New Curve Speed Reduction functionality for controlling speed around curves
New BladeScan Adaptive High-Beam System AHS: A world-first technology from Lexus, BladeScan helps drivers better see pedestrians and road signs, without dazzling oncoming cars
Improved Digital Side View Monitor: Available on the Luxury grade, provides a better rear side view, especially at night and in the rain

Provocative Lexus design

ES Chief Designer Yasuo Kajino: “For the new ES, we have added daring design elements that challenge traditional expectations. This new look is what we call ‘provocative elegance’.”

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The new ES marks a continued evolution of the executive sedan’s elegant exterior design, adding even more flair and sophistication. The new styling combines modernity with improved functionality.

New Lexus signature grille and headlights

While preserving the executive sedan’s recognisable identity, the new front grille of the ES 300h has evolved by adopting a reduced number of vertical bars and L-shaped components that depict both a horizontal flow and forward movement. The ES 300h F SPORT retains its iconic black ‘F’-marque grille.

All ES models feature newly designed headlights. Models with monocular lights have slender redesigned units, while triple-beam lights include the BladeScan AHS (Adaptive High-beam System) in sleeker units. While the outer lens is carried over, the inner design has been changed to create a sharper expression and enhance functionality: the new ultra-small 3-Beam LED units deliver a higher light intensity, while models with Bi-Beam LED headlamps incorporate small 3-lens LED units, improving visibility at night. The shape of the Daytime Running Lights has evolved to better express the 3-dimensional form and offer seamless illumination. The new ES is also available with multi- weather-lights that help the driver’s field of view in foggy conditions.

New 17” or 18” wheels, new Sonic Platinum or Sonic Grey paintwork

Enhancing the overall look, the new ES 300h wheels display more distinctive spokes on sporty 17” wheels with machined details, while 18” wheels convey a sense of luxury through the machined surfaces and black paint. Two new bodywork colours are also introduced on the latest ES: Sonic Platinum that takes advantage of strong shadows, while Sonic Grey exhibits a metallic high-gloss finish.

New 19” F SPORT wheels

Glossy new black 19” F SPORT wheels match the front grille, with a rear spoiler, badging and dark lower valance completing the dynamic ‘F’-marque look.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Inside the new ES 300h, the ergonomic cabin is enhanced by a new colour scheme and new 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen.

New ‘provocative elegance’ colour scheme

Throughout the interior, the driver will notice the attention to detail and skill of the brand’s famed ‘Takumi’ artisans, starting with the specially sculpted steering wheel. The sumptuous upholstery is now available in stylish new hues and exquisite inlays that typify the handcrafted appearance of the cabin. For the new ES, Lexus interior designers have developed a new colour concept around the “provocative elegance” theme. Creating a more exclusive cabin atmosphere, walnut inlays in newly developed Sumi Black Walnut and Dark Brown Walnut convey modern ambience. In addition to Hazel, the interior can be ordered in a new Forest Brown tone. For a sportier feel, the F SPORT offers a white/black interior Tahara colour scheme.

Lexus Climate Concierge

A feature sure to be appreciated by business and private drivers alike, the Lexus Climate Concierge creates a perfect cabin climate by automatically controlling the seat heaters, the steering wheel heater and the seat ventilation in synergy with the air conditioning system. On the new ES 300h, a sensor also detects cabin humidity and cabin/windscreen temperature to ensure the windscreen does not fog up. Lexus Climate Concierge also features an updated nanoe^TM X system, helping inhibit viruses and bacteria*, reducing odours** and moisturising hair and skin.

* More than 99% virus and bacteria inhibition by 1 hour exposure of nanoe™ X. Japan Food Research Laboratories, Report No. 20073697001-0101 , 15038623001-0101:

** Odour intensity reduced more than 1.8 by 1 hour exposure of nanoe™ X. Panasonic Corporation Product Analysis Center, Report No. BAA33-150318-M35

4^th generation Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid

In European markets, the new ES 300h is equipped with the latest Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid system that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, extremely refined performance and best-in-class CO₂ emissions from just 119 g/km compared to petrol and diesel competitors. A smart option for those drivers looking for an alternative to petrol or diesel powertrains, it charges whilst you drive, slow down or brake, meaning the driver never has to plug the ES 300h in or worry about battery range. Owners enjoy an amazing blend of power, content in the knowledge that their car is fuel efficient and producing far fewer emissions than conventional petrol or diesel engines.

The car’s hybrid system couples an ultra-efficient 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine with a light and compact electric motor. Total system power is 218 DIN hp/160 kW and combined cycle fuel consumption is from 5.2 l/100 km in the combined WLTP cycle.

The real-life efficiency of the advanced Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid is evident in the outstanding results which the ES 300h has achieved in the prestigious Ecotest conducted by ADAC, Germany’s leading automobile club. The ES 300h came on top of the 2019 ranking in the ‘upper middle class’ segment, being the only model achieving 4 stars out of a possible 5. Looking more specifically at fuel consumption, the ES 300h achieved outstanding results. Fuel consumption was recorded as low as 5.5l/100km in the overall test which combines dynamometer and road tests. It decreased even further to 4.3l/100km in urban driving conditions, where the benefits of Lexus’ self-charging hybrid powertrain were fully leveraged.

Ultra-efficient and quiet petrol engine

The ES 300h’s 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine incorporates fast-burn combustion technology that makes it one of the most thermally efficient engines ever built. The result is more power without increasing emissions or fuel consumption. This is achieved through features such as straight intake ports, increased valve angles and laser-finished valve seats. A variable capacity oil pump, multi-hole injectors, VVT-iE on the intake valves and a variable cooling system also contribute to the engine’s impressive heat and combustion management. For a quieter ride, the new ES 300h has been fitted with a noise-reducing engine cover made of polyurethane sound absorbing material.

Smooth and sophisticated hybrid transaxle

Engineered to smoothly blend power delivered by the electric motor/generator and 2.5-litre engine, this transmission utilises a multi-axle arrangement of the electric motors to reduce the overall length of the transaxle by nearly 30 mm compared to the previous generation system. This incorporates a power split planetary ring gear, parking gear and counter drive gear into one compact unit.

Compact nickel-metal hydride battery

Engineered to last the life of the car, the ES 300h’s nickel-metal hydride battery, which powers the electric motor and stores electricity generated by driving and braking, is positioned underneath the rear seats. Placing the battery here not only frees up luggage space, it improves weight distribution for better handling.

Power Control Unit (PCU)

Mounted directly above the transaxle, this compact PCU enables a low-bonnet design which improves aerodynamics and reduces fuel consumption. Whilst compact dimensions and low weight results from circuit board downsizing, the unit features reduced power losses and enhanced cooling efficiency.

Lower emissions

The new ES 300h produces far less CO₂ than conventional petrol and diesel engines, helping to reduce global warming. Improving air quality, it produces very low levels of harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulates. Additionally, it can operate in zero emissions mode for a significant portion of the drive.

Thanks to its low fuel consumption and 50 litre fuel tank, the ES 300h also provides a segment-leading 960 km range with one tank of fuel

Cost savings for fleet customers

Compared to an equivalent diesel model, Lexus hybrids are typically cheaper to own and run. Lexus Self-Charging Hybrids also require less servicing and spare parts as there is no clutch, alternator or timing belt to replace and, with regenerative braking, brake pads wear less, with reduced tyre wear thanks to smoother linear acceleration. The ES 300h’s lower emissions also reduce taxation. Business drivers pay less Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) as well as less company car tax, National Insurance and Vehicle Excise Duty.

Benefitting from Lexus’ outstanding track record in vehicle quality and the proven durability of the Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid drivetrain, the ES 300h achieves a 5% higher residual value than its competitors after 3 years.

Driving Dynamics: An executive sedan that feels great to drive

ES Chief Engineer Tetsuya Aoki: “Our goal with the new ES 300h was to deepen the quality of the drive and enrich the car’s feel even further. In addition to improving quietness and ride comfort, we optimized the car’s linear motion, suspension and steering, making these respond faithfully to the driver’s intentions.”

New high-rigidity rear suspension brace

Building on the much-acclaimed GA-K platform, the switch from a single to dual sheet structure has increased torsional rigidity of the rear suspension on the new ES. This allows for more precise driving, aligned with driver intentions, even during high-speed lane changes.

Improved brake controllability

Amongst several other refinements, the ES team improved brake controllability. The braking system has been reprogrammed, the shape of the brake pedal improved, and vibrations reduced.

Enhanced Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)

The team also improved the Adaptive Variable Suspension on the ES 300h F SPORT model. Thanks to a new actuator, the system is now more responsive, especially to low damping forces. Similar to the systems on the LC coupé and LS sedan, AVS is capable of 650 levels of adjustment and now also features an expanded flow path for the oil flow control valve. The new system achieves high-quality ride comfort while improving steering response and stability.

Multimedia and connectivity provided by Lexus Link

With the new ES, business travel goes beyond the tactile pleasures of sumptuous seats. Luxury is equally the peace of mind that comes from drivers knowing they will reach an important meeting on time, in the most enjoyable, stress-free manner.

Lexus Link Multimedia

Comprising an extra-wide 12.3” touchscreen, a Remote Touch Interface, voice recognition and smartphone integration, Lexus Link Multimedia offers a fast, easy-to-use and engaging in-car experience.

Extra-wide 12.3” touchscreen

Lexus Link Multimedia on the new ES has been designed for ease of use and speed. At its heart is the ES 300h’s 8” or 12.3” High Definition touchscreen that receives Over The Air (OTA) updates. The new touchscreen displays have been angled 5 degrees toward the driver and moved 112 mm forward to aid vision and usability. Lexus Link Multimedia offers a comprehensive range of features and a smooth display. The 12.3” display is equipped with Lexus Premium Navigation with vivid 3D graphics, audio and climate control.

Driver and passengers can also use their favourite smartphone apps via Android Auto or wireless Apple CarPlay.

Lexus Link app

Transforming the ES into a connected car, the Lexus Link app helps drivers plan a journey, find a parking space, schedule a service or even improve their hybrid driving style. It offers connected services like:

Driving Analytics: Tracks journeys, driving style and business trips. Already far more efficient and cleaner than competing diesel or petrol sedans, the ES 300h offers bespoke Hybrid Coaching advice to help lower harmful emissions and fuel consumption
Find my Car: Locates and guides drivers back to their ES
Service and Maintenance: Helps the owner manage the care of their ES
Share to Car: Lets drivers plan a route on another device and send it to their Lexus, while ‘Car to Door’ guides drivers on foot to their final destination once they are parked
Car status: Amongst many warnings, notifies drivers if they’ve left the car windows open or forgotten

to switch off the headlights. They can also check if their car is locked, or the alarm activated

Award-winning safety performance

Pushing back boundaries once more, the new ES improves safety performance again with the latest version of Lexus Safety System + fitted as standard, while breakthroughs like BladeScan Adaptive High-beam System headlights and digital side view monitors are available.

Lexus Safety System +

The new ES is equipped with an improved version of the Lexus Safety System + package of active safety and driver assist features. While retaining the single-lens camera and millimetre-wave radar, Lexus has added functions such as Emergency Steering Assist and enhanced the system’s lane recognition performance.

Pre-Collision System with new Intersection Turn Assist

The performance of the camera and radar has been improved, expanding the response range of the Pre-Collision System that detects cyclists during daylight hours and pedestrians in poor light conditions. Additionally, it will also provide support at junctions using Intersection Turn Assist, which detects oncoming vehicles when turning and pedestrians crossing the street.

Emergency Steering Assist

Also new, when a pedestrian very close or on your lane, Emergency Steering Assist (triggered by the driver’s evasive steering) will assist the steering movements, enhancing vehicle stability and keeping the ES in lane.

Lane Tracing Assist

The lane-recognition functions of Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), which is an advanced driving support function that supports steering to keep the vehicle in the centre of the lane, have been improved through the application of AI technologies that expand the assist range, resulting in smoother and more continuous steering assist.

Dynamic Driving Cruise Control

A new curve speed control function that slows the car in advance according to the size of an approaching curve has been added to Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (with an all-speed tracking function). This function will decelerate the car automatically when it determines the vehicle speed is too high for the curve that is negotiated.

Digital Side View Monitor

The camera performance of the Digital Side View Monitor, designed to provide a better rear side view than conventional door mirrors, especially at night and when it is raining, has been improved. Interference-reduction processing helps produce clearer images where light and shade are mixed, while LED flickering has been reduced.

BladeScan Adaptive High-beam System (AHS)

Available on the new ES, BladeScan AHS is a Lexus world-first Adaptive High-beam System in which LED-sourced light shines onto blade mirrors spinning at high speed and through a lens to illuminate the road ahead. BladeScan AHS also broadens the range of high beam illumination, enabling the driver to recognise pedestrians and road signs much earlier, without dazzling oncoming drivers.