Lexus. History.
In 1987 a select group of Toyota engineers were assembled to work on a completely new project: to create the best luxury cars ever. The much-acclaimed LS 400, the result of their efforts, was the start of what Lexus calls its 'pursuit of perfection.' It is this never-ending journey that makes Lexus so special.
Lexus combines the finest engine, transmission, suspension, chassis, brake and aerodynamic technology tocreate an inimitable driving experience.
Lexus is a class leader in safety. Safety explains the comprehensive active and passive safety systems protecting you and your passengers.
The first Lexus models went on sale in 1989. Most Lexus products share engines and platforms with Toyota models, but have unique equipment and styling. Since its introduction, Lexus has been at the top of most customer-service and initial-quality surveys.
So, Toyota launched its Lexus luxury division in 1989 with the introduction of the LS 400 and ES 250. The Japan-based automaker's new division sold more than 60,000 vehicles in its first year, and by 1991 became the number-one luxury import line. In 1993 Lexus introduced the first certified pre-owned vehicle program in the industry, and in 1999 the division sold its one-millionth vehicle in the U.S.—the year of its tenth anniversary in America. With record-breaking 2003 sales, Lexus kept its crown as the nation's No. 1 selling luxury brand for the fourth consecutive year.
First generation (1989-1991)
.jpg)
In order to avoid introducing the nameplate with only one model, the LS 400, Lexus debuted the ES alongside their flagship sedan. The first ES (codename VZV21) was introduced in 1989 as the ES 250, powered by the Camry's 2.5 L, 156 hp V6. The ES 250 was based on the Toyota Vista—a model never sold in the United States—which in turn shared the body and chassis of the Toyota Camry. Due to its similarities to the Camry, the ES 250 was viewed as a product of badge engineering and did not sell as well as its more expensive counterpart. The ES 250 was built from August 30, 1989 until J uly 5, 1991.
Second generation (1992-1996)
Assembly of the ES 300 commenced on September 9, 1991. Completely redesigned for the 1992 model year and now based on the VCV10-series Toyota Windom, the model was renamed the ES 300 to reflect the half-liter bump in engine displacement. This second generation was significantly larger and more curvaceous than its predecessor and sported a 185 hp engine. In Japan, a 172 hp, 2.5 L version of the Windom (VCV-11) was made available in october 1993. The 1993 ES 300 was the last Lexus sedan to offer a 5-speed manual transmission until the introduction of the IS 300.
The second-generation ES 300 featured California Walnut trim on the center console, leather seats, an eight-speaker premium sound system, and keyless entry. In 1996, Lexus offered an ES 300 Coach Edition, featuring select Co ach leather trim in the interior and a set of Coach luggage. The second-generation ES 300 was a sales success, becoming Lexus' best-selling vehicle overall.
Third generation (1997-2001)
The third generation (designated MCV20) appeared in 1997 with a 200 hp 3.0 L V6 and a 197 hp, 2.5 L V6 in the Windom. The new cars featured a design that was an evolution of the VCV10, and possessed a more rakish profile, sharper body lines, reflector instead of projector headlights, and a more upscale-feeling interior . The new ES was also slightly longer but weighed less than the previous generation. The power rating would grow to 210 hp in 1999, and the model would receive a mild facelift in 2000 as minor details such as the coloring of the taillights were changed from amber to clear.
The third-generation ES 300 featured a new electroluminescent Optitron instrument panel, Walnut trim, and leather seats. A power moonroof and Nakamichi premium sound system with rear-mounted CD-changer were options. In 1999, a limited Coach Edition was offered. Rivals to the third generation ES 300 included the Acura TL , Cadillac Catera, Infiniti I30, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Fourth generation (2002-2006)
A year after the Lexus IS became Lexus's entry-level car, a larger, fourth generation ES (designated MCV30) debuted in 2002. The presence of the IS in the Lexus lineup enabled the company to give the ES a more upscale image and luxury feel by e xcising the sporting pretentions of the previous ES models. Compared to its predecessor, the new ES possessed an interior with a greater emphasis on comfort, superior NVH isolation, larger, softer seats, and improved interior materials. Despite the additional features and added weight neither the acceleration nor the handling of the ES suffered. Other new features included a drive-by-wire electronic throttle, a five-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist as well as stability and traction control. In Japan, the MCV30 Windom received a 2-star LEV r ating. The fourth generation Lexus ES was built in Kyushu and Tsutsumi, Japan.
For the 2003 model year, the US and European markets received a new 3.3 L engine producing 225 hp (later revised to 218 hp, because of changes in SAE horsepower testing procedures), and the car was renamed ES 330 . In the Middle Eastern and Asian markets, however, the 3.0 L engine was still available. In 2005, the ES received a facelift with new front and rear fascias, clear taillights, projector headlights, and a redesigned grille. Inside, several new-for-the-ES features included power adjustable pedals, heated and ventilated front seats and rearview mirrors that would automatically tilt downward in reverse gear. Additionally, new Bird's Eye Maple trim brightened the interior and integrated satellite radio was offered as an option.In 2005, Lexus offered an exclusive ES 330 Black Diamond Edition featuring black wood trim, iridescent Black Diamond paint, and a set of Tumi luggage.
Fifth generation (2007-present)
The fifth generation ES debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February of 2006. It arrived at dealerships in late April, 2006 as a 2007 model.
The new ES, now called the ES 350, features the first use of a six-speed automatic transmission in a front wheel drive Toyota vehicle along with its sister car, the Toyota Camry V6. The engine is the 272 hp (203 kW) aluminum 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6 engine with variable valve timing.
The ES 350 cabin features Walnut wood accents, leather seats, dual zone climate control with air filter, MP3 player miniplug, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and nine standard airbags. Available new features include a three-panel panoramic glass moonroof, a 300-watt, 14-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, power seat cushion extender, radar-based adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power rear sunshade, DVD navigation system, and Lexus Park Assist, a sonar-based warning system with backup camera. A keyless entry and ignition system, Lexus SmartAccess, which does not require the electronic remote to be taken out of the driver's pocket, is now standard.
Production of the latest Lexus ES occurs at assembly plants in Kyushu, Japan.
A hybrid version should arrive in the 2009 model year as the ES 400h using the same engine mechanics as the RX 400h. Expect minor styling differences symbolizing the hybrid model.