All-new Lexus ES is a smooth operator
A major restyle gives the brand’s most conservative model more showroom appeal to take on the German contingent
Since its launch here in 2013 the Lexus ES has become the premium Japanese brand’s best-selling vehicle. That's no mean feat in a market that has seen so many buyers shunning sedans in favour of SUVs. The volumes have been small, but Toyota South Africa CEO Andrew Kirby believes the new-generation ES, with its smart new styling, will do better than its anonymous-looking predecessor at attracting new buyers and taking on the German rivals. Those rivals, size-wise, are the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-class and Audi A6, but in terms of pricing (at least for the entry-level Lexus ES) they're the 3 Series, C-class and A4 - and that's what makes the ES such an attractive prospect, says Kirby. At 4975mm in length this front-wheel-drive Lexus has grown in length and width and the stretch-out space inside the cabin is truly of business-class spec. The boot is also a very reasonable 420l in size considering it houses a full-sized spare wheel. But did you hear me say front-wheel drive? Yup, and t...
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