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All You Need to Know About 2019 Lexus ES Sedan

By Jon Derrickson on June 11, 2018

Lexus have introduced the fourth installment of their entry-level luxury sedan with the 2019 ES, and it ticks a multitude of boxes. The Japanese manufacturer have once again nailed down the performance, placed comfort in the interior and ensured the exterior is stylish. While this model holds a lot of similarities with previous versions, there is some additions.

If you weren’t already aware, the ES utilizes Toyota’s TNGA platform, and that very platform has been moulded towards the ES this year. That means a 200-percent increase in stiffness thanks to structural adhesives and laser-wielded screws. Subsequently, you’re blessed with a car that is much smoother to drive and is far better at coping with corners. Not only does the chassis come to life in winding roads, it’s stabled enough to be a daily car.

Another aspect that further improves the drivability is the Dynamic Control Shocks which allows you to fly across below-par road conditions without batting an eyelid. It’s fair to say that the chassis is one of the biggest upgrades which has resulted in the ES being a lot more fun – yet safe – to drive.

In terms of performance, the ES really isn’t shy. The 3.6-liter V6 engine tucked beneath the hood racks up a generous 302-BHP at around 6,600-RPM, and is pulled along by 267 pound-feet of torque which is activated at 4,700-RPM. If you compare that to its predecessor, that’s an increase of 34-BHP and 19 pound-feet of torque, so Lexus are heading in the right direction.

To put the power into the action, Lexus have utilized an eight-speed automatic transmission, which is manipulated into a smaller casing, which is another change from last year’s six-speed. But, they didn’t stop there; they’ve coupled the new gearbox with a tuned transaxle to guarantee a more luxury driving feel. Now, they have produced an alternative powertrain which is accompanied with different specs.

The optional powertrain is geared towards those that are more conscious of the damage we cause to our planet. It’s a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 215-BHP. Although, we’re not sure the horsepower is the selling point on this variant; it’s probably the impressive 44-MPG fuel economy. Moreover, the electric motor is hooked up to the Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission, which glides through gears seamlessly.

Furthermore, Lexus have introduced their D-4S fuel injection system – dubbed as Variable Valve Timing Intelligence – which allows the engine to function in Otto or Atkinson cycles. Plus, all versions of the ES come equipped with a variety of drive modes, including Eco, Normal and Sport. Each mode tweaks certain aspects of the car such as steering, climate control, throttle sensitivity and shift logic.

But, if you seek a thrill when behind the wheel, we urge you to opt for the V6 engine which slams power down beautifully. Moving on to the interior, there really isn’t that much of a makeover; not enough to warrant the expected hefty price tag anyway. There’s an elegant trim with some stunning leather seats and an improved 7-inch infotainment screen (8-inch in the f-Sport model). However, other than those, everything is pretty much similar.

That’s why so many people compare the ES to the Avalon, because they share so many similarities when it comes to the interior. People find it difficult to differentiate sitting inside an ES to sitting inside an Avalon. When you consider how much effort went into the design, materials and fine details with the LC 500, it’s a shame that the ES is still rather underwhelming.

There’s no denying that the ES won’t be the best in its class, but Lexus have definitely found a way to harmonize performance with comfort and a smooth driving experience. If you’re interested in one of these, then you’re going to have to keep your eye out for updates, because pricing still hasn’t been announced.

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