2019 Lexus ES300h reaches Japan, features world’s first side-view camera

KUALA LUMPUR: Lexus has launched the executive sedan ES in Japan, however, only in the 300h hybrid variant. The Japanese automaker had already revealed the new digital side-view-mirror system last month. With ES300h, Lexus has introduced the first production car in the world to get this technology.

Featuring a sporty design along with sleek looks and a lower centre of gravity, the Japan-spec ES is built upon the modular Global Architecture - K by Lexus. It is similar to Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), that is used in the Toyota Camry and Avalon.

The ES300h now boasts slim headlights, sharp lines, and a redesigned grille giving the sedan an aggressive yet attractive look. Complementing the looks are the repositioned A-pillars and a rear windscreen. Lexus’ trademark L-shaped taillights and a wider rear wheel stance than before gives the 300h its dynamic look.

The latest offering by Lexus in Japan is a bit bigger than the last model. Measuring 4,975 mm long, 1,865 mm wide, and 1,445 tall. The new model is 66 mm longer, 46 mm wider, and five millimetres lower than the last-gen ES300h. The wheelbase is also 51 mm longer than before, which now measures 2,870 mm.

Inside of the sedan, the seats are said to have been redesigned and given a new shape to make it comfortable in viewing the displays. There is a big  12.3-inch center-mounted display that is connected to the Lexus Remote Touch interface. Delineated Viscotecs door upholstery has also been made available as an option.

A mesh grille, adaptive variable suspension dampers, sports seats, unique steering wheel, 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, and a new samurai sword inspired “hadori” aluminium trim are all part of the F Sport appearance package.

The GA-K platform used here is said to be quite adamant. With the double wishbone rear suspension and a rack-mounted electric power steering system, the ES300h is capable of undergoing rigorous usage as well.

The newest executive sedan features Lexus Safety System+. The safety package includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Pre-Collision System, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Also present to the driver’s aid are Road Sign Assist (RSA), Adaptive High Beam System (AHS), Panoramic View Monitor, and Parking Support Brake System.

The special highlight being the digital side-view-mirrors. Claimed to be weather and stain resistant, the cameras outside send the images to a 5-inch display on either end of the dash. The performance of the new system is due to be tried and tested.

Lexus has launched the E300h with only one power option, a hybrid 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder petrol-fed engine that can produce a maximum power of 180 PS and a peak torque of 221 Nm. The petrol mill is complemented by a new hybrid electric transaxle, that takes the total power output to 208 PS and the mileage to 23.4 kmpl. The batteries are placed under the rear seats in the sedan, thus, helping in increasing boot space, improving weight balance,  and also lowering the centre of gravity.

The new Lexus ES300h has been launched at a starting price of 5,800,000 yen (RM 215,000), going up to 6,290,000 yen (RM 233,200) for the F Sport variant and 6,980,000 yen (RM 258,800) for the top of the line L version.