2013 Lexus ES350: Toyota attempt to inspire

Lexus has gone too far with this new design? In a bid to capture younger buyers, and bring brand unity with their newly designed GS models, Lexus has completely replaced the conservative image of old with something much more aggressive. While the styling is fresh and new, the power-train and interior noise are on par […]

Lexus has gone too far with this new design? In a bid to capture younger buyers, and bring brand unity with their newly designed GS models, Lexus has completely replaced the conservative image of old with something much more aggressive.

While the styling is fresh and new, the power-train and interior noise are on par with Lexus’ ES mission statement. As expected, the front and rear fascias are cut from the same aggressive cloth as those of the new GS. This is where Lexus is attempting to box above the ES’s traditional weight. Lexus’ “spindle grille” is prominent, as is the use of LED daytime running lamps. Large swathes of sheet metal on the sides of the car are broken up with sharp crease lines that firmly keep your eyes on the belt-line of the chassis.

The design language expressed in the interior comes from the LFA and is similar to the GS’s. The strong horizontal dash is anchored to the interior by a pillar-like center console and deep recessed infotainment display. The seats feature decent lateral bolstering, an unexpected treat in this segment, and the thickly-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel is lifted straight from the GS. The Drive Mode dial operates on the throttle map and power steering response. Although it will more than likely always be kept on the normal mode, the fact that Lexus even thought the ES could use a Sport mode is a miraculous thing. Eco mode increases efficiency by dampening throttle input and reducing air conditioning operation.

Lexus has redesigned the ES with their sights straight on conquest sales and owner satisfaction. How it succeeds is up to buyers.