2013 Lexus ES Preview:

Earlier this month, Lexus invited me to Newberg, Oregon, where I had the chance to try out the all-new sixth generation Lexus ES. The following is an overview of the new model — my personal impressions on the ES 350 & ES 300h will follow this weekend.

The ES sedan has been a staple of the Lexus brand since the very beginning, when the first-generation ES 250 was introduced alongside the flagship LS sedan at the 1989 Detroit Auto Show.

Over the last twenty-three years and five model generations, the ES has stayed its course as a full-size luxury sedan at an entry-level luxury price, making it a unique vehicle that competitors have yet to find an answer for. This latest edition, introduced at the New York Auto Show in April, takes the ES formula and refactors it, with an increase in overall size, a fresh and unexpected level of performance, and a significant upgrade to both the exterior and interior.

 

Please note that clicking on any image in this overview will display a larger version.

Exterior Design

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In setting out to design the new ES, Lexus engineers had some very clear objectives:

1. Increase the appeal of the model to younger buyers, and
2. Incorporate the new L-Finesse design cues.

The first point is entirely subjective and up for discussion, but the L-Finesse update introduced with the fourth-generation GS is reflected throughout the exterior, starting with the spindle grille:

The ES now has a lower profile with an emphasis on aerodynamics, best illustrated with this graphic:

Here we can see the pronounced wheel flares and the straight-line airflow, which Lexus defines as a “flowing silhouette with pulled-in corners”.

The other functional design elements that help to direct air around the ES are fins built into the side mirror, the taillights and the panels underneath the vehicle:

Here are the ES aerodynamics in action:

But perhaps the most noticeable difference from the previous generation ES is the larger size:

Compared to the previous generation, the overall size has increased by 1.0 inch (25.4mm) and the wheelbase has jumped 1.8 inches (45.7mm) — this additional space has been used to boost the rear seat room.

Interior

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The ES interior has been designed to use the two-zone template first seen in the third generation RX, with a clear break between the operation zone (highlighted in blue) and the display zone, which takes up the upper portion of the dash:

The front seats have been redesigned and are more driver-focused, with an adjusted steering wheel position and greater height flexibility:

The ES now features the same steering wheel as the GS, a very noticeable upgrade over the current generation:

Of course, the biggest change by far is in the rear seats, where every dimension has been increased:

Lastly, here’s a photo of the night ambient lighting :

(Also available in the Ultra Luxury package is a panoramic glass roof.)

Audio & Navigation

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The ES is offered with three different audio controllers:

1. The base system has hardware audio controls and a LCD display built into the head unit.
2. The ES is also offered with the Display Audio controller, which uses a dial to control the audio and climate controls via a 7-inch dash display.
3. Finally, there is the second-generation Remote Touch controller, which uses a 8-inch display for audio control, climate control, and navigation. This option also includes Enform with built-in Internet app functionality.

There are also two audio system levels:

1. The base system features eight speakers, Bluetooth audio, USB functionality and HD radio.
2. The upgraded Mark Levinson audio system has fifteen speakers kicking out 835 watts.

ES 350 Technical Details

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The ES 350 continues to be powered by the 2GR-FE 3.5L V6 engine from the previous generation, which pushes out 268 hp and 248 lb.ft of torque and delivers 21 city/31 highway/24 combined mpg. Also carried over is the six-speed transmission.

However, one major improvement is the addition of the Lexus Drive Mode Select, which comes standard in every new ES. Three modes are available:

• Normal: The baseline between performance and fuel efficiency.
• ECO: Maximizes fuel savings by smoothing out throttle application and moderating the air conditioning
• Power: Full throttle control along with adjustments to the steering feel

ES 300h Technical Details

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The ES 300h is powered by a 2AR-FXE 2.5L 4-cylinder Atkinson Cycle hybrid engine, mated with a E-CVT transaxle that uses two electric motors — one to generate electricity, the other to use electricity. As a result, the ES 300h has a combined 200 hp and 156 lb.ft of torque, and delivers an estimated 40 city/39 highway/39 combined mpg.

The ES 300h is also equipped with the same Drive Mode Select as the standard gas ES 350, but picks up an EV mode option that allows the vehicle to the vehicle go approximately 25 mph for up to a half mile purely on electric power.

One impressive aspect of the ES 300h is the compact design of the battery pack, which sits directly behind the rear seats:

Suspension & Chassis

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Using similar techniques seen with the fourth generation GS, the new ES has moved to a more balanced suspension — there is still an emphasis on ride comfort, but handling has been much improved.

One focus was on body rigidity, with high-tensile-strength sheet steel used throughout the body (reducing weight by almost 90 pounds) and a number of braces added to the rear subframe:

Additionally, the ES now has opposite-wound front coil springs, a revised rear suspension, and adjusted shock absorbers — all meant to improve ride comfort and overall stability. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) has also been reconfigured with a quicker ratio to improve responsiveness.

Safety Features

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Beyond the ten airbags installed in the ES, there are a number of active safety features available, starting with the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert — two features best demonstrated by video:

Also added to the ES was Lane-Departure Alert:

Two other notable safety features: Intuitive Park Assist, which helps guide the driver into a parking spot using sonar, and automatic high beams.

Color & Wheel Options

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The ES will debut the Silver Lining exterior color — the remainder are all existing Lexus colors:

The ES will be available in three interior colors — Black, Light Gray & Parchment:

The ES 350 and ES 300h will both get an exclusive wood trim option, with Birdseye Maple for the ES 350 and Bamboo for the ES hybrid:

The bamboo in the ES 300h is a much darker color than the wood previously seen in the GS hybrid — this is to prevent prevent windshield glare.

The ES will be available with four different wheel designs:

Standard Equipment

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For the ES 350, standard equipment will include Drive Mode Select, LED daytime running lights, a power moonroof, 17-in. alloy wheels, smart key, automatic temperature control, 10-way power driver and passenger front seats, a NuLuxe interior, Bluetooth, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

For the ES 300h, standard equipment is the same as with the ES 350, but also includes EV Mode, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, hidden exhaust, and Bamboo interior trim.

Packages

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In the USA, the ES will be offered with three packages, all of which will require either the optional Display Audio or Navigation system:

• Premium Package (ES350/ES300h): Genuine wood trim, wood-trimmed and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, NuLuxe seat trim, driver seat memory, and the power tilt/telescopic steering wheel.
• Luxury Package (ES 350/ES 300h): Premium Package plus HID headlamps, leather-trimmed interior, climate controlled seats (heated and ventilated), power rear sunshade, and Intuitive Park Assist.
• Ultra Luxury Package (ES350/ES300h): Luxury Package plus the panoramic glass roof (ES 350 only), rain-sensing wipers with de-icer, heated wood steering wheel, passenger seat memory, driver’s seat cushion extender, ambient lighting, manual rear door shades, and one-touch power trunk.

There are also a number of separate factory options available, including Lexus Display Audio, the navigation package, navigation with Mark Levinson audio, Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS) with dynamic radar cruise control, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure assist with auto high-beams.

courtesy of lexus enthusiast

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Lexus USA Releases GX 460 SportDesign Package:

Lexus USA has quietly launched a SportDesign package for the GX 460 — here’s a visual breakdown of upgrades (click for a larger image):

To summarize, the $2,000 option package includes:

• F SPORT Grille
• F SPORT 18” cast alloy wheels with a liquid silver high-gloss finish and 12% lighter than the stock wheels
• Bright chrome exhaust tip made of double-walled stainless steel
• Black or brown carpet floor mats with the F SPORT logo on the front mats

The GX SportDesign is arriving at dealerships already, despite there being no mention of the package on the Lexus USA website — one Club Lexus member was even able to snap a photo of the standard GX and the SD GX side-by-side:

(Here are more real-life photos of the GX SportDesign.)

I’m not quite sure about the grille without seeing it in person, but I like the wheels well enough — curious that even with three F SPORT branded elements (grille, wheels, floor mats), this is not the GX F SPORT.

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AutoGuide is reporting that the next-generation Lexus LS hybrid will focus on fuel efficiency rather than delivering high-end V12 power:

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The problem says Lexus ES and LS product planner Ketan Renade is that sales are extremely slow. “We did studies and focus groups and people said, ‘hybrid equals mpg’”, says Renade. “Cars with 400 and 500 hp are great, but no one is buying them.”

The ES isn’t the exception either, but the new rule, with Renade nearly confirming a decision to axe the LS600 in favor of a less-potent hybrid powertrain. Speaking with AutoGuide at the recent ES launch, he said that, “If we did a future hybrid Lexus LS, it would go V6 hybrid.”

This is great news — for Lexus to maintain its position as the top hybrid luxury brand in the world, the technology needs to be accessible, and the $112k USD LS 600hL doesn’t really fit in that equation. Utilizing a V6 hybrid powertrain in the next-generation LS is something that makes sense, especially if it can reach similar fuel economy numbers to the new GS 450h (31 mpg combined).

Another point to consider is that a LS V6 hybrid will be extremely important in markets outside of North America, particularly in the parts of Europe where Lexus is moving to a hybrid-only lineup.

Definitely think this is a smart move — what do you think, do you want to see a LS 450h?

courtesy of autoguide

Thank you for this stunning review, Patrick!

5-star review for Lexus Carlsbad:

"My wife and I just purchased a 2012 ct200 and I am telling you Bob Delaney is the man to talk to if you're ever going to go to Carlsbad.  He clearly does not pressure you nor does he haggle you, forcing you to buy this and that, unlike Kearney mesa Lexus they gave me a whole presentation about values of cars, why hybrid this and that.  Thinking that I had no common knowledge on cars.  After haggling over 20 different dealers ranging from LA area to down here.  Bob Delaney gave me no hesitation, no pressure, nor did he break any promises.  Not only that he gave me a price 19 other dealers did not want to match.  

What made me decide to go to Carlsbad was solely based on how Bob Presented himself on the phone and emails (I'm a real picky person) and efforts to provide me and my wife the best deal for our vehicle and customer service.  He even threw in extras accessories that we weren't even aware of until we got there to see the car!.  What a great person to deal with, me and my wife came home loving our new Lexus we are definitely going back there to Bob to get our next Lexus."

Rush Limbaugh Advertising Response For Those Who Are Concerned:

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 The views or opinions expressed by Rush Limbaugh are solely his own and do not necessarily represent the views, opinions or values of Lexus Carlsbad. Our marketing decisions are based on the number of listeners reached. This station offers one of the largest listenership's in this market.

Hey there fans, check out the details on the Lexus display audio controller:

Now that the 2013 Lexus RX 350 has arrived in U.S. dealerships, longtime Lexus Enthusiast reader & Flow Lexus of Greensboro employee Brendan Bogue has sent over a detailed description of the Display Audio controller first spotted in a 2013 ES promotional video.

The controller turns in either direction continuously to select anything on the screen, and also moves up, down, left, and right. Physically pressing the controller down acts as the “enter” function, and there are also three buttons for Menu, Audio, and Go Back.

Here’s the menu screen:

The different options (phone, climate, etc) rotate in a circle as you rotate the controller.

Here’s the climate control screen:

This screen can be used to change all of the climate settings (though you can still use the climate control buttons on the dash).

However, most of the audio controls are now within the display screen:

For example, you can no longer select a radio preset using the actual radio in the dash – only via the Display Audio controller, or via the steering wheel buttons. Most of the radio control buttons from the previous ’10-’12 RX are missing from the radio.

(Note: the base RX still has the plain white LED display with the preset buttons on the radio).

Hey there Lexus fans! See what year 2013 has to offer for the famous RX model!

Hey Lexus fans, did you know that May 14th is National Buttermilk Biscuit Day? Yum!

May 14th is National Buttermilk Biscuit Day! These tasty treats are great to make anytime of the year. What is your favorite recipe to use buttermilk biscuits with?

Lexus Unveils All-New 2013 ES 350 and First-Ever ES 300h Hybrid at New York International Auto Show

NEW YORK, April 4, 2012 – Lexus today unveiled the all-new 2013 ES lineup, including the ES 350 and ES 300h equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive. Featuring a progressive new design and enhanced handling, the 2013 ES sedan is set to continue as a favorite of luxury car buyers.

"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."

ES 350 Now Complemented by ES 300h Hybrid
For the first time, the Lexus ES will be available with Lexus Hybrid Drive. Featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine, the ES 300h hybrid is expected to earn an EPA fuel economy rating of approximately 40 mpg combined city/highway.

This new, low friction twin cam engine utilizes a sophisticated power management system, 12.5:1 compression ratio, and Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The beltless motor is designed to improve fuel economy and durability, and a near zero evaporative fuel system helps reduce emissions.

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. Normal mode provides a blend of performance and efficiency that is suited to everyday driving, while Eco mode favors fuel economy. Sport mode increases powertrain responsiveness.

The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Dual VVT-i. The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides enhanced performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts. Low friction materials further improve efficiency.

Signature Lexus Design
The new ES features a lower, progressive profile, and clean, continuous styling lines from front to rear. All four corners are pulled tightly inward to the wheel arches, creating distinctive proportions. The wheelbase of the new ES has been lengthened by 1.8 inches, while the overall length of the vehicle has grown by just one inch, resulting in a more spacious interior.

The new ES unmistakably bears the new face of Lexus with its distinctive, spindle grille. The LED daytime running lights and combination rear lamps reflect the "L" design motif. The ES 350's rear bumper sports dual exhaust pipes, while the ES 300h hybrid features a distinctive rear design with hidden exhaust and an integrated spoiler. New exterior colors for the 2013 ES include Fire Agate Pearl and Silver Lining Metallic.

Interior Designed for Comfort and Spaciousness
The modern interior of the 2013 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.

A newly sculptured seat enhances driver comfort. The steering wheel angle has been reduced from 24 degrees to 22 degrees for a more natural control position. Fluid-filled engine mounts, new sound absorbing materials and a tuned engine intake minimize the intrusion of outside noise.

Greater rear seat legroom and knee room are the hallmark of the redesigned, more spacious cabin. Knee room is increased by 2.8 inches and legroom is increased by 4.1 inches. The new design also offers additional foot room below the front seats.

Available comfort and convenience features include manual door window shades, a power rear shade, and a one-touch power trunk closer. Optional ambient lighting, discretely placed under the wood trim, softly illuminates the surfaces of the instrument panel and all four doors.

The new ES will feature enhanced NuLuxe seating surfaces, developed to reduce environmental impact. Genuine leather is also available, as is semi-aniline leather for an even more refined look and feel. Interiors are available in Black, Light Gray, and Parchment. Trim colors and materials include Piano Black, Espresso Bird's-eye Maple, and Bamboo.

Crisp, Confident Driving Dynamics
Suspension and steering changes and a stiffer body deliver more precise handling. Opposite-wound coil springs on the front suspension enhance straight-line stability. Revised rear suspension geometry and improved shock absorber damping characteristics enhance ride comfort. A reduction in the steering gear ratio delivers a more responsive and direct steering feel. Increased body rigidity is achieved through lightweight, high tensile strength steel, added bracing and additional spot welds. Despite its larger size, roomier interior and additional luxury appointments, the weight of the new ES is reduced by almost 90 pounds.

The ES will be equipped with standard 215/55R17 low rolling resistance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, and for the first time, available 18-inch high-gloss alloy wheels.

Driver-Focused Cockpit
Designed with attention to ergonomics and driver focus, the cockpit features separate display and operation zones to help keep the driver's eyes on the road. The instrument panel, with its long, layered look, places the main information display directly in the driver's line of sight. Just below the center display is a self-illuminating LED analog clock. Controls are clustered beneath the information zone, on the steering wheel, and on the center console.

The second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located on the center console. RTI reduces eye and hand movement, helping reduce effort and distraction.

Safety Features
An array of safety features aid the driver. The available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) helps detect vehicles in side blind spots. The RCTA alerts the driver to rear cross traffic when backing out of a parking spot. Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is integrated with automatic high beam dimming technology. The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) uses sub-millimeter wave radar to detect obstructions and prepare the vehicle for a potential collision.

The ES features a segment-leading 10 airbags as standard equipment, including driver and front passenger knee and front air bags, as well as front and rear seat-mounted side and curtain airbags. Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to limit excessive head movement in certain rear-end collisions helping to decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries.

Lexus Safety Connect, including Enhanced Roadside Assistance, an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Stolen Vehicle Location services, and Automatic Collision Notification to a Safety Connect center is standard on the new ES. A one-year trial subscription for Safety Connect is included.

courtesy of autoblog.com

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The Blind Spot Monitor introduced with the fourth-generation Lexus GS will also be available in the new ES — here’s a video demonstration of the system in action:

Happy Friday and welcome to the weekend!

Is anyone doing anything fun for Cinco de Mayo? Do you have a certain dish you love to make, or a specific restaurant that you go to every year? Share your comments with us, we'd love to know!

Hey fans! Check out Spyro Gyra-Coming to The Centre at Lexus Escondido on May 13th!

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The Story Behind the Lexus Spindle Grille:

The epiphany came while GS lead designer Katsuhiko Inatomi was playing with clay models of that car at the company’s studio in Toyota City. On a whim, he tweaked the air intake to connect the lower and upper grilles in a boxlike frame.

“Simon [Humphries, Toyota's executive chief creative designer] took a peek and said, ‘That’s it! That’s the spindle grille,’ ” Inatomi recalls.

Humphries says the spindle brings the flexibility to span a Lexus lineup running from sporty coupes to sedans and SUVs. “For example, we can create a more elegant grille if the break point” between the upper and lower portions of the grille, he says, “is lowered, or more aggressive if raised.”

The grille’s design language will change with the times, he says. “The proportions may become wider or narrower, it may be rounded or squared,” he says. “But the fundamental bi-conic shape will remain apparent.”

courtesy of lexus enthusiast

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Hey Lexus fans! Check out the gorgeous 2013 Lexus LX!