23-05-2025
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We take a look at the new Lexus flagship and KMG Rexton commercial
The eighth generation Lexus model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year.
In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John takes a look at the new Lexus flagship, which will arrive in the UK next year, and the KMG Rexton commercial, which has just been released.
A stunning looking new Lexus ES has been unveiled more than 35 years after the original set new standards in the world of luxury motoring.
The eighth generation model is packed with advanced features and will be available as a hybrid and fully electric car when it arrives next year.
Innovations such as the Lexus-first 'Hidden Tech' switches - made possible by Lexus's Arene software platform - and the latest sophisticated multimedia and safety systems all feature in the new saloon.
It was revealed at the Auto Shanghai show in China and builds on the qualities of the previous model of 2018.
The latest ES has been developed with a new Lexus design concept - Clean Tech x Elegance.
Lexus says that investment made in comfort, refinement and luxury moves the car closer to the quality, spaciousness and specifications associated with larger executive-grade models while, its performance and handling, both in hybrid and battery electric versions, delivers the high levels of comfort, confidence and control that define the Lexus Driving Signature.
The upper section is wide open to prioritise the driver's view, while the instrument combimeter is presented in an asymmetrical 12.3-inch digital array, allowing for a lower meter hood to be used.
Material quality is raised with soft leather-like accents and dynamic lighting effects.
Noise reduction - a trademark of the brand - was prioritised with improved door sealing and the use of glass with high sound insulation quality in the front doors.
Lexus says the way sound is distributed within the cabin has been carefully managed to deliver a more natural and harmoniously balanced acoustic experience.
The high quality of the ES's interior is supported by a new Lexus technology, Hidden Tech switches which are both minimalist and unobtrusive.
When the car is turned off, the switches are not visible beneath the dashboard upholstery and when the driver switches the car on, they light up and are revealed to give the look of a touch-panel with a haptic feedback when used.
The rear cabin can be fitted with reclining seats and, for the seat behind the front passenger, an ottoman leg support for an exclusive chauffeur-driven style experience.
The front passenger seat has a forward-folding function to maximise rear leg room.
Two battery electric ES versions will be available - the ES 350e front-wheel drive model delivering an output of 221bhp and the all-wheel drive ES 500e, with an output of 338bhp.
Both benefit from Lexus's expertise in advanced electrification to unlock the full potential of the new Lexus global architecture-K platform, including new eAxles which integrate both the power control unit and transaxle.
The ES 500e is equipped with Lexus's DIRECT4 intelligent electric all-wheel drive system which provides continuous adjustment of drive torque distribution to all four wheels, according to driver inputs and the road conditions.
It can vary from 100:0 to 0:100, based on data from sensors monitoring acceleration, wheel speed and steering angle.
In terms of size, the car is 165mm longer at 5.14 metres and up to 115mm taller at 1.56 metres while it is 55mm wider at 1.92 metres. Wheelbase has grown by 80mm to 2.95 metres.
Lexus says that UK pricing and full details of the new ES will be available early next year.
Meanwhile, a commercial version of the KGM Rexton has been announced, costing from £34,995.
It made its debut at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in Birmingham and like the SUV on which it is based will have a 3.5-tonne towing capacity.
The vehicle offers a secure load area with over 2200-litres of space, has a payload in excess of 700kg and can easily accommodate several standard Euro pallets.
Three versions will be available with the line up topping out from £38,995 for the Rexton K50.
The all-wheel drive vehicle is powered by a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering a maximum power of 202ps mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The vehicle conversion has a full-height fixed mesh bulkhead as standard and opaque reinforced rear windows, for added security.
The load area is carpeted, with an optional rubber mat available as an accessory.
The entry level K30 is priced from £34,995 and features LED lights all round, faux leather heated and ventilated seats and a 12.3-inch display screen, alloy wheels and a powered tailgate.
Mid-range K40 models - priced from £35,995 - come with leather seats, LED cabin mood-lighting and additional safety features such as blind spot detection and rear cross traffic warning while the K50 adds more features including a sunroof and rear air conditioning.
It attracts commercial Vehicle BIK taxation, is eligible for capital write-down and has a first-year VED of £345.
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