By Staff Reporter

Lexus is offering ES 300h customers a new standard of value, technology and elegance in the form of an all-new hybrid derivative in EX model grade for 2020. The full model range now consists of the entry-level petrol ES 250 EX, followed by the new ES 300h EX, then topped off by the exceptionally well-spec’d ES 300h SE.

What’s new?

Either than the already mentioned EX 250 ES coming in at an enticing R640,400,00 – a revised infotainment system which now includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Free Wi-Fi and an 8-Inch centre display now come standard across the range. The system also comes with a Lexus Premium Audio System boasting DAB (Digital Audio Broadcaster) and 10 speakers.

Lexus as Usual

In typical Lexus fashion, the interior combines traditional aesthetics and bespoke craftsmanship. The overall finish is exemplary as much as it is impressive. The EX grade is available with three standard Nulux (simulated leather) interior options, namely Topaz Brown, Black and Chateau. Seat warmers are standard for the driver and front passenger. This seventh-generation ES also features the advanced safety technology expected from a Lexus. It’s equipped with full suite of passive safety equipment comprising driver and front passenger airbags; two driver and front passenger knee airbags; two driver and front passenger seat-mounted side impact airbags and two front-to-rear side curtain airbags.

Why Hybrid?

Lexus Sales and Marketing Vice President, Glenn Crompton says: “Expanding the ES 300h line-up was a natural extension for a luxury sedan that has had a good market share for hybrid sales over the last year. In 2019 Lexus commanded a 39 percent market share of all hybrid and electric sales in the premium sector.”

“The greater number of Lexus customers purchasing this luxury sedan can now enjoy the luxury of choice, supplemented by a new standard of range-wide connectivity,” Crompton concludes.

The ES 300h exclusively utilises the advanced Lexus self-charging hybrid electric system, combining an ultra-efficient 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine working with an electric motor to produce 160kW of power. The combined-cycle fuel economy is pegged at 4.6 l/100km. The ES 300h achieves 0-100 sprint time of 8.9 seconds and top speed of 180 km/h.

The ES 300h EX is available in nine exterior colours: White Quartz, Platinum Silver, Sonic Titanium, Mercury Grey, Black, Deep Blue Mica, Red Mica, Sunlight Green and Ice Ecru.

The Lexus ES 300h EX

The Lexus ES 300h EX retails for R774, 300. The entry-level petrol ES 250 EX retails for R640,400 and the ES 300h SE model retails for R910,900. This model joins the rest of the Lexus models with a standard and best-in-class 7-year/105,000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan.