LUXURY motoring is not always about getting somewhere faster.
Sometimes, it is about making the journey itself more enjoyable, whether that means settling into a comfortable seat after a long day, listening to your favourite music or simply enjoying a quieter moment away from the bustle outside.
That is the experience Lexus wants to deliver with its all-new ES 350h, the eighth generation of its luxury sedan.
Priced from RM366,888, it brings a fresh interpretation of luxury motoring, with an emphasis on comfort, simplicity and the enjoyment of everyday journeys.
The ES 350h was introduced simultaneously across Lexus showrooms in Malaysia on Oct 30, with each dealership hosting its own gathering for customers and guests.
At Lexus Subang Jaya, the launch took the form of an intimate dinner and an exclusive viewing of the new sedan, allowing attendees to experience the car in a more personal setting.
Comfort in many ways
One of the highlights is the panoramic roof which features a single movable glass panel.
Together with the expansive glass surfaces, it allows natural light into the cabin to create a more open and airy atmosphere.
The movable glass panel is positioned towards the front, hinting that Lexus has also designed the ES to be enjoyed by the owner in the driver’s seat.
Comfort is another Lexus priority, with slim ventilated seats designed to make longer journeys more pleasant, especially in Malaysia’s hot and humid weather.
For those who appreciate music, the 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system is another attraction.
Designed to deliver balanced sound throughout the cabin, it allows both the driver and passengers to enjoy a more immersive listening experience, whether the owner is travelling alone or sharing the journey with family and friends.
Behind the wheel, the cabin adopts Lexus’ Tazuna concept, which places key information and controls within easy reach, and the driver’s natural line of sight.
The aim is to create a more intuitive driving environment, allowing the driver to focus on the road rather than navigate a complicated dashboard.
A 12.3-inch digital instrument display and 14-inch Full HD touchscreen provide the main information and entertainment functions, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
One of the more interesting touches is the hidden switch system, described by Lexus as a world first.
The physical controls are concealed within the dashboard until illuminated, giving the cabin a cleaner appearance while keeping essential functions accessible.
It is a neat balance between modern technology and the familiarity of conventional controls.
A more distinctive presence
The exterior has also undergone a significant transformation, giving the new ES a more contemporary and distinctive appearance while retaining the understated elegance expected of a Lexus luxury sedan.
Its cleaner surfaces and flowing silhouette create a more sculpted look, with the distinctive Twin-L lighting signatures and illuminated rear light bar giving it a recognisable presence on the road.
The 19-inch alloy wheels add to its purposeful stance, while semi-flush door handles, a first for Lexus, contribute to the car’s refined appearance.
Power comes from a sixth-generation self-charging hybrid system, combining a petrol engine with electric motor assistance to deliver a combined output of 247PS.
The ES 350h accelerates from zero to 100kph in 7.7 seconds, providing ample performance for everyday driving and highway journeys.
Unlike a plug-in hybrid or fully electric car, there is no need to connect the ES 350h to an external charger.
The system manages the use of petrol and electric power automatically, recovering energy during braking and deceleration.
The ease of hybrid driving
For owners, the bigger attraction is the way the hybrid system can make everyday motoring feel smoother and more effortless.
Electric motor assistance helps deliver power progressively, while the driver enjoys the convenience of hybrid technology without having to plan charging stops or change established driving habits.
Improved fuel efficiency is an added benefit, rather than the sole reason to choose this luxury sedan.
Safety meets luxury
Safety is supported by the latest Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which incorporates advanced driver assistance technologies, such as Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Active Cornering Assist, to help improve awareness and support the driver.
The all-new Lexus ES 350h is aimed at buyers looking for a premium sedan that combines traditional luxury with a more contemporary approach to design and technology.
Its appeal is not limited to the space and comfort it offers passengers.
Ultimately, Lexus wants the ES to be a car owners look forward to driving, and not simply one that gets them comfortably to their destination.
For more information, visit www.lexus.com.my.
