By Abdulaziz Khattak

The new-look Lexus ES 2019 series was launched in Bahrain with a refreshing appeal, both from inside and outside, by Ebrahim K Kanoo, the sole distributor of Lexus vehicles in the kingdom.

Guests got to check out three models – the ES 350, ES 300h and the first ever F Sport – at the Lexus showroom at the launch event attended by senior delegates from Lexus international and Ebrahim K Kanoo.

With the new series, the Lexus engineering team aimed to transform the image of ES, further sharpening a sedan known primarily for comfort and quietness, and adding class-leading handling and power that the driver can feel and hear.

Ayman Shehadeh, senior manager for Lexus Marketing at Ebrahim K Kanoo, said: “We are very excited to launch the newest model that combines both aesthetic design and great performance potential. The all-new 2019 Lexus ES features a host of cutting-edge technologies that provide both the driver and passengers with rewarding and confidence-inspiring experience.”

Hybrid model

A major addition to the ES line-up is the ES300h, an electrified hybrid model, which combines two power sources consisting of a petrol engine and two electric motors, producing a combined system output of 215 hp. This powertrain is also mated to a new hybrid transaxle that provides the lowest fuel consumption value of 24.4 km per litre, and highest driving performance of this class.

The ES 300h is powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine producing a maximum output 176 hp at 5,700 rpm.

The ES 300h can be driven entirely by either electrical ‎power with zero-fuel consumption and carbon emissions, or with a combination of a petrol ‎engine and two electric motors, depending on the vehicle’s speed and customer’s driving behaviour. ‎The batteries in the hybrid electric drivetrain are automatically charged by either the petrol ‎engine or when braking and decelerating, eliminating the need to plug in a power cord.

The ES 350, meanwhile, is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine that is designed to deliver commanding acceleration along with an invigorating sound. With an update to the D4-S fuel injection system, the impressively smooth engine now produces 300 hp and 36.4 kg-m of torque.

From the outside, the provocative elegance of the design starts upfront with the latest iteration of the brand’s signature grille, but adds individual cues that are unique to the ES such as the vertical grille pattern and satin-plated trim, adding slim headlamps with distinctive L-shaped marker lights.

The ES has a dynamic yet fluid shape that starts with the low hood line that feeds into the sleek roofline. The rear of the all-new Lexus ES is clean and sharply chiselled, with distinctive three-dimensional, L-shaped LED tail lamps.

An exquisite interior invites the driver and passengers to enjoy a range of advanced features offering a refined cabin experience.

These include an enhanced in-vehicle 12.3-inch multimedia display, a 10.2-inch coloured and adjustable head-up display (HUD), a 7-inch colour multi-information display (MID), a wireless charging system for smartphones, an LED ambient illumination, the Lexus Climate Concierge with a 3-zone independent temperature control system, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, multi-adjustable power and ventilated front seats, power reclining rear seats, a rear armrest with multi-operation panel, and a hands-free power trunk lid.

In the new ES, Lexus engineers have succeeded in building a machine that delivers a fundamentally higher level of performance than any of its predecessor. They achieved this with the help of the all-new Global Architecture – K (GA-K) platform, giving Lexus the opportunity to explore the limits of mid-size luxury sedan design.

The ES is now longer, lower and wider than its predecessor. The longer wheelbase allows the wheels to be pushed closer to the car’s corners, with wider front and rear treads. Its stance and proportions reflect its new-found performance capabilities and give the ES the kind of eye-catching appeal that will make owners and admirers take a second look.

The ES line-up is available in 12 distinctive exterior colours. Two newly-developed exterior colours, Ice Ecru Mica Metallic and Sunlight Green Mica Metallic, further evoke the luxurious and glamorous atmosphere.

On the other hand, the interior comes in a total of five colour schemes, with two new schemes called Rich Cream and Chateau. There are five available ornamentations depending on the grade, with three new designs, including Bamboo, Shimamoku Black, and a Dynamic pattern called ‘3D Film,’ along with one exclusive design for the F Sport.

Sporty ride

For sports enthusiasts, the ES F Sport features numerous sporty upgrades such as a retuned suspension, 19-inch wheels and tyres, and unique aluminium interior trim that gives the machine a more dynamic look and feel.

The car’s AVS (adaptive variable suspension system) provides seamless, continuously variable control, electronically optimising the damping force of the school absorbers to deliver a supple ride.

A choice of Eco, Normal, Sport S/S+ and Custom are offered for drive modes, while engine sound enhancement heightens the exhilaration of the F Sport.

Owners can express their individuality with two exclusive colours for the sports version, and an exclusive interior scheme.