At the recent Shanghai International Motor Show, a variety of new cars were unveiled. Among them, I was particularly interested in the new Lexus ES. This model marks a significant full redesign after a long time, and despite the challenges Japanese cars face in the domestic market, the ES300h has consistently enjoyed steady popularity. I was curious to see just how much the new ES has improved.
To cut to the chase, my first impression was, "Is this right?" Lexus unveiled the new ES in both hybrid and pure electric models. Regardless of the trim differences, the overall design feels overly complicated. What does the black line that connects the driver's door to the second-row seats even signify?
They claim this design achieves the best aerodynamics, but it seems forced. The wheel spokes also appear too dull, reminiscent of the early hybrid and electric cars from domestic manufacturers.
The rear design, however, seems decent. It features a thin horizontal LED bar that aligns with current trends, and the elongated coupe-like tail line is a nice touch. Unfortunately, the look I anticipated from the eighth-generation concept car is nowhere to be found in this new ES electric and hybrid model, which is disappointing.
I envisioned a design that maintained the signature spindle grille while giving it a more electric feel, and I believed the body character lines could have been sexier. Instead, the actual ES looks like it has tape stuck on it.
I’m not sure what to make of it. Perhaps seeing it in person over time will help me adjust, but just from the photos, I think they absolutely need to change that black side character line to a body tone-on-tone color.
Perhaps my expectations were too high. Although it's a concept LS, I anticipated a fantastic front design with that atmosphere, but the actual new ES completely shattered those hopes.
The design sometimes resembles an SUV. With Porsche releasing the electric Taycan and introducing a tear-drop or dark circle design under the headlights, the mixed reactions led to the removal of that detail in the facelift. I wonder if Lexus will face a similar dilemma with this ES.
I believe AI does a better job at design these days. It understands what customers want, keeps up with current design trends, and aligns with brand identity, making it feel more realistic. It's quite unfortunate.
I do want to commend the interior design, which is simple and well-organized. Japanese cars, including Lexus, have been quite conservative in interior changes, but this new ES brings a definite transformation.
However, that large monitor seems excessive. While it might be an optional feature, I believe it could obstruct the driver's view significantly.
Thanks to the new platform, the vehicle length has increased by 6.5 inches (165 mm), and the wheelbase has been extended by 3.1 inches (80 mm), resulting in more legroom in the second row, which is impressive.
The new Lexus ES offers a premium seat package option that provides extra rear space, featuring second-row seat adjustments and a leg support feature. The front passenger seat can also fold forward.
So, that wraps up my thoughts on the Lexus ES full redesign. I’m not sure if it will achieve the same popularity as the previous ES300h upon its domestic launch. I anticipate the price to be around $52,000 (7,000,000 KRW), but there are many competitive models in that price range with high value. Personally, I have higher hopes for the upcoming new LS than for the ES.
Photo Source: Google
