There is change on the horizon for the Lexus range. Buyers are flocking to SUV’s and two of their mid-size luxury saloons are fighting against each other in the showroom. Unfortunately for RWD fans, the sportier GS is getting trounced in sales by the front wheel drive ES.
As a result, the GS is poised to meet the chopping block, with the ES taking over as the luxury automaker’s sole mid-size sedan. So what will the next-generation ES look like? Let’s investigate further.
L-finesse Styling
The outgoing ES was never really much of a looker; its general appearance is rather subdued in comparison to other models in the Lexus lineup - or perhaps that’s why it sells so well?
2019 sharpens the pencil, with sleeker lines, aggressive grilles and better proportions. Headlights have interesting jagged outlines, whilst the grille will be offered in waterfall or mesh patterns for sporting versions. Thick chrome makes the belt-line stand out near the c-pillar and sleek, horizontal taillights finish off the rear.
Under The Skin With TNGA
No, TNGA is not some miss-abbreviated Mexican dish; it’s Toyota’s new global architecture that underpins almost everything from C-HR, Prius, Camry, plus upcoming Avalon and Corolla models - just to name a few.
For the ES, this means it’ll share the same platform that sits beneath the upcoming Avalon, something that bodes well with significant strides in rear occupant space, dynamic prowess, ride quality and safety.
Familiar Powertrains
The 3.5-liter V-6 is expected to continue as an entry point into the ES range, with 300hp mated to an eight-speed automatic. Power will still be fed to the front wheels; although with the GS said to disappear, an AWD option should appease those who’ll miss the latter’s RWD setup.
Hybrid fans will also be pleased that the petrol-electric powertrain will make a return, most likely with the same output and fuel economy range specs as the 2018 Camry.
Luxury Rivals:
The 2019 ES will be the freshest kid on the block until the next-generation Audi A6 makes an appearance. Until then its sleek new attire may just win over some buyers cross-shopping between Volvo S90, BMW 5-Series, Lincoln Continental, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E Class.
An official launch date is still up for speculation, but don't be surprised if it makes a debut next year, possibly at the New York Motor Show.
Lastly, what luxury sedan would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
By Josh Byrnes
Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes
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