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Lexus SA confirms all-new ES 250

Cape Town - Lexus South Africa has confirmed that it will expand its 2013 model range with the all-new ES 250 in November. Here's the pictures - see the cars in the metal at the upcoming Johannesburg International Motor Show.

The first ES was introduced in 1989; this the latest model of the Japanese super-sedans is the sixth generation of what is now becoming an icon in the world of luxury automobiles. It is the best-selling Lexus sedan.

Lexus ES250 gallery


Glenn Crompton, vice-president of marketing for Lexus SA, said the addition of the new ES served to reinforce Lexus' ongoing commitment to customers and innovation.

PRICES BELOW IS RANGE

"Its introduction to the local market is a direct result of customer demand for a more accessible, value-orientated luxury offering from Lexus and we are pleased to have secured two options while expanding our innovative hybrid vehicle portfolio (the ES 300h will be available to order).

“Price-wise, the new ES will slot in in just below the IS range but spatially it offers accommodation closer to that of the GS – think of it as the spacious and comfortable alternative to the more dynamically focused IS and GS ranges. It is elegantly styled yet suitably bold, underpinned by a chassis that offers satisfying driving qualities and an incredibly smooth ride.

"This is matched by unprecedented levels of standard equipment, leading technology and a high-quality interior bristling with all the latest luxury and modcon features."

ES at a glance


The new ES, shown to a selected number of journalists ahead of the Jozi show at functions first in Cape Town and then in Johannesburg but without a drive and in floodlit darkness, is the latest model to wear the bold new 'spindle grille' face of Lexus: the dramatically sculpted spindle grille. Other striking L-Finesse-inspired features, the automaker says, include a strong shoulderline, daytime running lights and a broad, ground-hugging stance.

Short front and rear overhangs and dramatic 17" alloy wheel rims accentuate the sense of purposeful composure. Here's how Lexus describes its latest products:

• The interior offers class-leading spaciousness along with an enhanced driving position. In comparison to the outgoing model (not available in SA) the latest ES comes with a reduced steering-wheel angle to improve the feeling of control at the wheel, the front seats can now be lowered by a further 15mm for better headroom. Rear headroom is increased by 20mm and rear knee space is up by a remarkable 60mm.

• The ES interior is a harmonious balance of engaging warmth, ergonomic intelligence and leading-edge technology. Stand-out features include the second-generation 'Remote Touch' interface working with a 20cm deep-set color monitor, satnav, leather everywhere in the cabin with high-quality stitching, and ambient lighting.

It also shares many features with the new GS such as the signature analogue clock and the Nano-e aircon. Additional standard niceties include a moonroof, smart-entry, power seats with seat heaters, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, reversing camera and parking radar. Cabin finishes include piano black and 'Champagne silver' console trim.

ROTARY DRIVE MODE

• The new ES provides a wealth of highly advanced passive and active safety features. Among them: lane-change cameras with a blind-spot monitor, vehicle stablity sontrol, anti-lock brakes and a crash-prevention system. There are also 10 airbags as standard.

• The rotary drive mode selector allows the driver to access Eco Normal or Sport settings. This enables a wide spectrum of experience in the ES, from highly economical and relaxed driving in Eco – where features such as throttle responses and aircon are moderated to the far more sporty and direct Sport mode. Instrument cluster illumination reflects the mood: blue for Eco and red for Sport.

• The ES 250 is powered by a new 2.5 litre dual VVT-i twin-cam four-cylinder engine that produces 135kW at 6000rpm and 235Nm at 4100rpm. With the aid of the standard six-speed auto, the Lexus ES 250 does the century sprint in less than 10 seconds and can exceed 200km/h.

• The Lexus ES 300h (order only) sees a 2.5-litre single VVT-i twin-cam Atkinson cycle four-cylinder unit (118kW at 5700 pm and 213Nm of torque at 4500rpm) joining hands with a 105kW electric motor that’s fed by a 650V nickel-metal hydride battery for a combined 151kW output.

Equipped with an eCVT system, the Lexus ES 300h does 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds before maxing out at 180km/h.
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