The 8th generation of the Lexus ES is set to arrive soon

The 8th generation of the Lexus ES is set to arrive soon

It's about time we saw established premium cars encompass this modern elegant look that Chinese manufacturers are perfecting. This time around, the futuristic look is accompanied by a Lexus badge in the front and an ES badge in the back, and it's a charming new saloon from Toyota's luxury arm.

The first iteration up for examination is what Lexus is calling its self-charging hybrids. In other words, they are mild hybrids. This setup offers a 2.5-litre petrol engine and will work its way into the ES 300h and 350h. The smaller 300h will produce 148kW, whereas the bigger option, the 350h, will produce 182kW and both will offer a front- or all-wheel drive platform. These engines will be paired with an eCVT gearbox, in which case it will likely lose a few points in the more selective driver's scorebook.

Lexus has recently put great emphasis on its new energy developments, so to ensure the ES meets electrification demands, it will come with two electrified configurations too, called the ES 350e and 500e. The ES 350e is slightly less powerful with an output of 165kW, while the ES 500e will lay down a healthy 252kW. And now that we have the numbers out of the way, what is Lexus looking to achieve with the new ES?

Since its inception in 1989, the ES nameplate has come a long way in terms of evolution. The new ES is focused on Lexus’s Experience, Elegant & Electrified Saloon concept, and its appearance certainly meets expectations. It's based on the outgoing ES platform, and although its dimensions are larger in both width and length, it's far from the same car. Its dynamic front end, boxy angles, and streamlined side profile stand out, giving it a fresh look. This new style is called Clean x Tech, and while it looks clean, it might be too basic, especially inside.

Speaking of which, Lexus would group its design angle into three words: electrification, intelligence and diversification, and it's clear that a digital atmosphere was the focal point. The 12.3-inch digital array is the centre of attention within the cabin. A variety of sensible colour options in the seat textures and cabin decor complement this. It makes use of Lexus’s Tazuna principle and places emphasis on the driver's attention towards the road ahead by minimising distractions. In turn, the user experience is designed to be easy to use and simple, but as we have seen with more digitalised interiors, it's difficult to achieve from a screen.

Lexus will incorporate its new multimedia system within the new ES, which should be a significant improvement over its current ageing system. It's pretty clear that Lexus is pushing for a clean-cut and mature cabin environment. Recent models have shown that it can create an engaging driving dynamic and a plush interior environment. Based on available images, it's clear that the Japanese are also turning their focus towards buttonless interiors. As much as the lack of tactile functions can draw away from the user experience, Lexus is a brand we can trust to find a healthy balance, so I hope this approach is reflected through the ES to engage rather than distract drivers through the use of complex screen layouts.

Nevertheless, on appearance alone, the new ES is sure to turn heads. Not necessarily from a ‘damn, that’s good-looking’ perspective but rather a ‘what on earth is that?’ standpoint. It’s a pretty car that absorbs the modernly simplistic look that many brands are trying to achieve. Yes, its EV configuration may take some time to persuade potential local customers, but the hybrid offerings appear promising, especially if Lexus has achieved the increased level of performance claimed for the new ES over the outgoing model. The car will be on display at the Auto Shanghai today, so we will likely be getting more hands-on feedback shortly.