Lexus displays new ES at Shanghai motor show
Lexus released the first ES in 1989, and now an all-new ES is due here early next year. In between time, there have been seven generations of ES, the latest being the eighth.
Developed under the concept of Experience Elegance and Electrified Sedan, expect an even more refined driving experience. That's in part due to HEV and BEV powertrains.
The design draws inspiration from the LF-ZC concept revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. Its exterior features a flowing silhouette while inside Lexus debuts Responsive Hidden Switches. These blend physical controls into the interior for both functionality and sophistication. Hopefully the don't blend in so well you can't see them. A new 14-inch infotainment screen takes price of place front and centre.
With a more spacious rear-seat design, the new ES adds further to cabin refinement. A new multilink suspension set-up no doubt contributes. ES aims for a high-level balance between handling, ride comfort and cabin hush. Lexus says the ES also 'integrates next-generation multimedia for enhanced connectivity and convenience, along with the latest Lexus Safety System+ for advanced safety and peace of mind.'
A new platform design, enhanced structural rigidity and electrified powertrains aim for improved overall ride and refinement.
Lexus International Chief Engineer, Kohei Chiashi, says the sedan offers key engineering advantages for refinement and dynamics, including high body rigidity and a low centre of gravity.
'These attributes contribute to the model's exceptional ride comfort, handling stability, and quietness, forming the foundation of the sedan's enduring appeal.
'With the newly developed TNGA GA-K platform, the new ES supports both HEV and BEV powertrains, offering a wider range of electrified vehicle choices while contributing to the realisation of a carbon-neutral society. The new ES delivers a fresh and unprecedented sedan experience unlike any sedan previously seen from Lexus,' says Kohei Chiashi.
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NZ Autocar
2 days ago
- NZ Autocar
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Toyota has unleashed four GR variants and now Lexus has taken the smallest and turned it into the top LBX model. Naturally it isn't called a GR but an RR variant of its compact LBX crossover line-up. And unusually it has Morizo in the name. That's because this particular LBX was developed in part by 'Master Driver' Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation. On track, Toyoda's nickname is Morizo, so that's why the RR is known thus. Morizo was also one of the mascots of the 2025 World Expo held in Japan. Who knew? The RR in the nameplate refers to Rookie Racing as opposed to Gazoo Racing. Anyhow, the RR is closely related to the GR Yaris, just like LBX is related to Yaris Cross. For they utilise the same platform. However, the RR Morizo is somewhat wilder, more athletic. It's 15mm wider and rides 10mm lower than the others in the range. The driver's hip point is also 10mm lower for that sense of oneness with the vehicle. 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Also enhancing athletic ability is significantly enhanced body rigidity thanks to almost 500 extra spot welds and an additional 13m of structural adhesives. There are special underbody stability braces and a rear performance damper as well. Active Sound Control amplifies driving sounds through the audio speakers. This involves synchronising engine and exhaust resonances as the vehicle accelerates and slows. The RR is evidently Morizo's weekend drive. He believes it will 'redefine expectations in the luxury small SUV market'. And he is right about that, except for one pesky rival with a similar aim. Purely coincidental it was that we drove the facelifted Cupra Formentor VZ just before hopping into the Lexus LBX Morizo RR. I hadn't at that stage cottoned on to the fact that both of these sell for just under $90k. And while the Formentor is larger (4451mm vs 4190mm) with a bigger four-pot 2.0 engine, they're both five-door sporty compact crossovers. 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