LUXURY LEXUS ES FOCUSES ON HYBRID-ONLY MODEL

The latest iteration of the spacious Lexus ES sedan will appear in New Zealand with a hybrid-electric powertrain only as Lexus moves to decarbonise its fleet.

Lexus New Zealand General Manager, Andrew Davis says hybrid-electric powertrains are a core component of the Lexus electrification strategy, which is closely aligned to the New Zealand Government’s long-term plans to decarbonise the country’s vehicle fleet.

“Lexus is determined to offer New Zealanders a range of premium vehicles that suit local driving conditions and provide a steppingstone to a zero-carbon future,” Mr Davis says. 

By 2025, Lexus plans to globally introduce 20 new or improved models, including more than ten battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric or hybrid-electric models. 

To create an exhilarating performance and luxurious drive, the 2022 ES 300h has received multiple updates. The ES model line-up remains unchanged, with a standard grade ES 300h, a performance focused F Marque ES 300h F SPORT, and the ES 300h Limited, which adds further interior refinements and features, such as more controllable seating and rear air conditioning.

A new signature Lexus spindle grille featuring gunmetal grey paint with more pronounced vertical bars defines the exterior styling of the ES 300h standard and limited grades alongside the Lexus L-shaped headlights. The standard grade’s alloy wheels feature a new V formation spoke design, while those on F SPORT have a premium gloss black finish.

Lexus’ human centred vison has resulted in further improvements to the legendary quietness and ride comfort by Lexus engineers to the new hybrid-electric ES. Starting with the ES 300h, modifications to the rear suspension have been made to improve handling, stability, and ride comfort. All grades have an improved brake pedal pad and electronically controlled braking system to enhance the braking feel further connecting the driver to the road.

The F SPORT grade adds a new actuator to the AVS damper making the vehicle more responsive to low damping forces, achieving better ride comfort and improved steering response and stability.

Safety features of the standard grade have been extended with Intersection Turn Assistance, Emergency Steering Assist added to the Pre-Collision System, Curve Speed Reduction added to the All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and a Rear Seatbelt Reminder.

The F SPORT grade has had the panoramic view monitor and pedestrian intelligent clearance sonar safety features added. The 2022 F SPORT and the Limited models are also the first ES cars to receive the unique BladeScan™ Adaptive High-beam System, which is designed to improve night vision and illuminate roadside hazards. A new combined headlight design for F SPORT and Limited has resulted in the removal of previous sequential front indicators.

The ES line-up continues to offer a high degree of interior comfort and luxury. The air purifying system has been upgraded to the nanoe™X across the range, and the ES 300h Limited enjoys ambient interior lighting and a wood accented steering wheel.

All models receive a 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia display which has been brought forward to improve accessibility for the driver. The two rear USB ports have been changed to illuminated C-type ports to ensure on the go connectivity for the rear passengers. The ES 300h Limited also enjoys a Mark Levinson premium audio system with 17 speakers.

Two exterior colours, Basalt Mica and Platinum Silver, have been replaced by Sonic Shade and Sonic Iridium. There is also a new interior colour, Hazel, available in synthetic leather for the standard grade. The F SPORT grade is available with Black and Flare Red synthetic leather, while the Limited grade is available with Black and Rich Cream semi-aniline accented leather. Black Walnut replaces Shimomoku Black on the Limited grade’s interior trim.

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