Lexus is working the renewal of
the Lexus ES. The next-gen Lexus ES was recently spied testing in Kentucky,
USA, courtesy The Drive. The next-gen Lexus ES appears to have a front portion
that draws inspiration from that of the latest Lexus LS. The mid-size sedan’s
updated Spindle grille is apparently flanked by new headlights similar to that
of the flagship sedan’s triple bi-LED headlights.
The next-gen Lexus ES’ profile may not look all that
different from its predecessor. At the rear, the sharper and more aggressive
tail lamps somewhat remind of the previous generation Hyundai Sonata. The
redesigned tailgate seems to have a swooping chrome trim covering the entire
width and stretching all the way to the rear quarter panel, right above the
tail lamps.
The all-new Lexus ES is expected to use the same
TNGA K sedan platform as the all-new Toyota Avalon that debuted at NAIAS 2018.
The car’s wheelbase will likely grow by 50 mm to 2,870 mm,
making more room for the passengers. Lexus could offer the redesigned model
with the latest Toyota Avalon’s 2GR-FKS 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and A25A-FXS
2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 650-volt electric motor. In
that case, the hybrid model’s battery pack may get relocated from the trunk to
under the rear passenger seat.
The 2019 Lexus ES could debut at the 2018 New York
International Auto Show before going on sale later this year. Lexus may bring
it to India sometime next year, possibly as a CKD import.
