Lexus has released a teaser image with the headline
“Expect the Unexpected”. The sole pic shows the front end of a car that is set
to make its global debut at the Beijing Auto Show on April 25. The identity of
the new model is secret, but it “aims to radically transform the driving
experience for luxury consumers all over the world,” according to Lexus.
The details you see here match those on the
allegedly leaked pic of the all-new 2019 Lexus ES we shared with you yesterday.
If correct, the Lexus midsize exec is set to have styling inspired by the bold
new Lexus LS flagship limo.
Compared to the current facelifted XV60 ES that
debut in 2015, the image above shows a more protruding and sculptured face. The
full-height spindle grille extends further outwards, and comes with distinctive
vertical slats that open up at the bottom, as opposed to horizontal ones. Note
the two “horns” of the grille – those weren’t there before and they guide your
eyes to an additional crease on the bonnet.
The headlamps have a sharper tail than before, and the integrated LED daytime running light
tick has its own independent tail on the side. The DRLs are now of the more
modern light bar variety.
Compared to the new LS’ face, the spindle grille’s
internal design here isn’t as ornate, while the headlamps – standard projectors
and not full LEDs – don’t form a full ‘Z’ as on the LS, thanks to LED DRLs that
are more integrated than independent. The above-mentioned “horns” of the grille
are also unique to the alleged ES.
Word is that the 2019 Lexus ES will ride on the same
TNGA platform as the still-fresh Toyota Camry and the full-sized new Toyota
Avalon. This should give the ES a boost in space. There’s a new V6 engine in the
US-market Camry, and that might find its way to the ES.
