When Lexus officially entered India early last year, the car maker opened its innings by launching three models in one go. The ES300h hybrid sedan was one of those three and the entry level model then. This was the sixth generation of the sedan and was already towards the end of its life cycle. We drove it extensively and were very impressed with the car. But clearly it had begun to show it age when compared to its rivals. The seventh gen ES was revealed in April this year at the Beijing Motor Show and Lexus has been super quick to bring it to India just five months later. Can it spring a surprise on its European competition? Driving around for a few days, we tried to find out.
2018 Lexus ES300h Exterior
The new ES300h has grown in size over the model it replaces. It is 60 mm longer, 45 mm wider and the wheelbase has increased by 50 mm. That translates to more space inside. Look at the car from a distance and you could mistake it to be the flagship LS500h limo. The LED headlamps have Z shaped styling with the Lexus L shaped DRLs. The trademark XL size spindle chrome grille might not be pleasing to some but there’s no doubt that it speaks character. Moving to the side, the 18 inch chrome wheels look very classy. They are hollow so as to not allow tyre noise to filter into the cabin. The sloping roof line gives it a coupe look, just like the LS. The rear gets redesigned tail lamps and a boot spoiler.
Contd…
