Test drive Lexus ES 300h: quiet step

Impressions of the new edition of the model, which Lexus offers for the first time in the European market

The Lexus ES has been in the US market since 1989 and has enjoyed impressive success. The seventh generation of the model was recently unveiled, with which the ES officially enters all European Lexus specs for the first time.

And since this is a completely new product for the audience of the Old Continent, it would be nice to start with a little explanation of what it really is and to which segment it would be most logical to attribute it.

Luxury derivative from Toyota Camry

In fact, the concept of the Lexus ES is as simple as it is efficient and consequently successful – in fact, since the first generation. This model is a luxurious and more refined version of the best-selling Toyota Camry.

That is, this car is a representative of the full-size sedans that are so popular abroad for our ideas and average for local habits of sedans, which we used to define as the high segment of the middle class. However, there is one peculiarity - while the almost identical dimensions of the GS model, which is no longer sold in Europe, was based on a rear-wheel drive platform, the ES has a drive similar to the Toyota Camry only on the front axle.

The question of which models the luxury hybrid sedan will fight against is quite controversial, but in terms of size, price and technology, it would be logical to compare it mainly with the Audi A6 or Volvo S90, as well as with models of the Mercedes E-class, BMW Series 5, Jaguar XF and so on.

Calm as the main goal

The very fact that at a time when most people around the world are mesmerized by new interpretations of the SUV and crossover theme, we are faced with an elegant and completely traditional (sedan body) concept with a luxurious character.

The form of the car compares favorably with the classic representatives, as it interestingly combines classic proportions, flowing lines and some stylistic devices and elements typical of the Lexus design language. As a result, ES looks original, but no frills.

The serenity of the exterior emanating from this car is brilliantly complemented by the ambiance of the interior. The sound with which the door is closed after entering the salon speaks of solidity and exceptionally high quality.

The more luxurious versions of the model feature chic aniline leather upholstery and fine wood finishes. In the basic version, the equipment is very rich, and in expensive ones it becomes frankly wasteful.

Soon after the start, you cannot help but imagine that with this car you can cover great distances with almost no feeling of the road. The quietness in the cabin is achieved thanks to surprisingly good noise insulation, and the refined comfort with which the chassis handles any type of unevenness, a comfortable and relaxing seat will make the trip unforgettable.

Fantastic sound is provided by the Mark Levinson audio system. Even on frankly unkempt roads, the ES moves extremely smoothly and quietly, almost imperceptibly - in this respect, the model is at the level of the biggest names in the class.

Impressive urban consumption

Typically, Lexus rely on self-charging hybrid technology. With a system power of 218 horsepower, the car is energetic enough without any sporting ambition, but in reality the whole nature of the ES has little to do with the pursuit of maximum dynamism.

The fact that low fuel consumption on the highway is not the main advantage of this type of driving is well known, but, on the other hand, in urban conditions, a five-meter luxury cruiser has a consumption similar to a small class model - about six liters per hundred kilometers and even lower. . They are achieved without any special effort on the part of the driver.

In terms of price, the model is positioned quite high, but this largely corresponds to the super-rich equipment and attractive warranty conditions - the base Executive level starts at $59, and the top-end Luxury Premium version costs $000.