Lexus ES 300h

We Say: New-gen Sedan Gets Updated Tech And Features To Better Compete With The Germans

- Devesh Shobha

Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 – these are the three big bullies of the luxury sedan classroom and it’s not very often that you come across a new guy making a remarkable first impression, let alone throwing punches at the established nameplates. Still, following the Volvo S90 a couple of years ago, we find ourselves in yet another fine example of a luxury sedan – the new Lexus ES 300h.

Yes, you may have heard the name before from when Lexus had the previous generation car on sale for a year, but it failed to make a name for itself. Why? Because that car was almost on the verge of extinction globally and didn’t put up a great fight against its more evolved rivals. However, this seventh-generation car you see here is different. Toyota’s brand new global platform brings in considerable changes in terms of tech and features, and when teamed with its arresting new design, the new ES 300h strikes a fine balance between design, technology, driveability and comfort.

With a face that resembles the more luxurious LS, the new ES gets sharper styling cues with a steeply raked C-pillar and a striking alloy design, making it a true head-turner. And then there are the all-new interiors that rightfully express this Lexus’ youthful character. Infused with the right grade of leather, wood and plastics, the ES’ cabin is a good place to be in. And features such as 12.3-inch infotainment system, a fine 17-speaker 1800W Mark Levinson audio system, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats (for a chauffeur-driven car it’s quite odd there’s no seat ventilation at the back), and three-zone climate control make your time spent in the cabin a pleasant one. Plus, there are those supremely comfortable seats that add to the luxurious experience.