What We Like
A dominating presence
Cabin is a work of art
Holds itself well on the road
Competitively priced amongst its peers
managed 17.5km/L over a four-day test drive
What We Dislike
Remote Touch Interface that controls the infotainment system isn't the most intuitive
Despite the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers in Singapore, the Lexus ES sedan has been the best-selling model in the brand's lineup since it came back to our shores back in 2013.
Now, with the all new makeover, it won't be surprising if the ES tops the charts once again amongst its fellow siblings, more so since rumour has it that this model will replace the sportier and more expensive Lexus GS.
The Lexus ES looks good even from the back
But is the ES up to the task?
At $238,000 (as of 22 November 2018), the new Lexus, in its Luxury grade, is some $60,000 cheaper than the GS when its sportier counterpart was readily available.
As it is, the new ES is already more affordable than its German peers like the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Thus, price wise, the new ES is already at an advantage.
Also ensuring it's up for the task is the way the Lexus moves with its super silken and assuring demeanour. It may neither be on par with its peers in terms of dynamism nor is there anything to bring home with its century sprint timing of 8.9 seconds, but the Lexus ES will not disappoint with its high comfort levels, excellent ride and stylish looks.
Crucial features such as ventilated seats come standard
Looking like a flagship
With its gaping spindle grille, striking headlamps that are underlined by LED daytime running lights and wide stance, it bears a close resemblance to the Lexus LS flagship.
As such, you could say that the ES300h beckons a clear intention of broadening the car's appeal to buyers of younger age - a praise-worthy feat for a brand that's commonly associated with the older generation.
Needless to say, this feat continues the moment you're seated inside.
The cabin is undoubtedly a mature and lovely place to be inYou're firstly greeted by a generously-sized 12.3-inch infotainment system. It also won't take long for you to notice just how much more spacious the cabin is than before, thanks to an increment in its wheelbase and body length of 50mm and 65mm respectively.
Boot space, too, has been upsized to 473 litres, with the relocation of the new compact nickel metal hydride battery from the trunk to below the rear seats.
Now, with the all new makeover, it won't be surprising if the ES tops the charts once again amongst its fellow siblings, more so since rumour has it that this model will replace the sportier and more expensive Lexus GS.
But is the ES up to the task?
At $238,000 (as of 22 November 2018), the new Lexus, in its Luxury grade, is some $60,000 cheaper than the GS when its sportier counterpart was readily available.
As it is, the new ES is already more affordable than its German peers like the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Thus, price wise, the new ES is already at an advantage.
Also ensuring it's up for the task is the way the Lexus moves with its super silken and assuring demeanour. It may neither be on par with its peers in terms of dynamism nor is there anything to bring home with its century sprint timing of 8.9 seconds, but the Lexus ES will not disappoint with its high comfort levels, excellent ride and stylish looks.
Looking like a flagship
With its gaping spindle grille, striking headlamps that are underlined by LED daytime running lights and wide stance, it bears a close resemblance to the Lexus LS flagship.
As such, you could say that the ES300h beckons a clear intention of broadening the car's appeal to buyers of younger age - a praise-worthy feat for a brand that's commonly associated with the older generation.
Needless to say, this feat continues the moment you're seated inside.
Boot space, too, has been upsized to 473 litres, with the relocation of the new compact nickel metal hydride battery from the trunk to below the rear seats.
More than just that, materials used are the best in the business, as expected from Lexus, while sumptuous leather fills the space to remind you it's not just another typical Japanese brand you're piloting. 
The CVT transmission makes light work of heavy traffic
Drives like a gentleman
On the move, the ES hybrid - with its naturally aspirated 2.5-litre mated to a CVT gearbox - handles itself with a level of sophistication that's unmatched in its class. It being a non-turbo also means acceleration is immediate and linear, always. Thus, the Lexus is able to deliver the goods in a way that's simply outstanding, even if its combined output of 215bhp and 221Nm of torque isn't class-leading.
Then again, it's not a bad thing by any means. Figures are out the window when it comes to the ES and that's not because the luxury Japanese carmaker isn't capable of putting up a fight when it comes to punching out performance cars. Instead, emphasis has been placed on things that really matter when you're behind the wheel.
2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine is a smooth gem to beholdFor instance, the steering wheel is nicely-weighted and precise, which help a lot when manouevring around narrower roads. Also, the car's balanced chassis allows the ES to transport occupants around in a pampered ride without coming across as harsh even as you push the car fast and furiously over broken tarmac.
Up there with the best
In any case, you'll hardly find yourself speeding in the Lexus ES, even if it's easy to do so. In my case, I was pottering around town and even on highways at a rather leisurely pace. Perhaps its luxurious cabin, cossetting ride and seamless acceleration can make an impatient driver like myself calm.
The new car features the driving mode selection on the dashBut more than just making a driver more calm on the road, the handsome Lexus will certainly make you look good driving it.
Drives like a gentleman
On the move, the ES hybrid - with its naturally aspirated 2.5-litre mated to a CVT gearbox - handles itself with a level of sophistication that's unmatched in its class. It being a non-turbo also means acceleration is immediate and linear, always. Thus, the Lexus is able to deliver the goods in a way that's simply outstanding, even if its combined output of 215bhp and 221Nm of torque isn't class-leading.
Then again, it's not a bad thing by any means. Figures are out the window when it comes to the ES and that's not because the luxury Japanese carmaker isn't capable of putting up a fight when it comes to punching out performance cars. Instead, emphasis has been placed on things that really matter when you're behind the wheel.
Up there with the best
In any case, you'll hardly find yourself speeding in the Lexus ES, even if it's easy to do so. In my case, I was pottering around town and even on highways at a rather leisurely pace. Perhaps its luxurious cabin, cossetting ride and seamless acceleration can make an impatient driver like myself calm.
