Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isnt it? We all think about a lot of things. Is it within my budget? How safe is it for my family? What will be the monthly maintenance cost? Does it have all the latest features I want? And what about company service and reliability? These are common questions for every prospective car buyer. Today, we are going to dive deep into a car that aims to answer all these questions with a resounding yes the new Lexus ES 350h Luxury. Let us find out if this elegant sedan truly ticks all the right boxes for you.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Lexus ES 350h Luxury is its sophisticated self-charging hybrid powertrain. This setup ensures you get a smooth and efficient drive, perfect for both city commutes and highway cruising.

• Engine Type: 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a permanent magnet synchronous motor
• Total System Output: 244bhp
• Transmission: Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT)
• Fuel Efficiency: Impressive, often delivering around 19-22 kmpl (kilometres per litre) in real-world conditions, making it one of the most fuel-efficient luxury sedans in India.

Design Overview

The Lexus ES 350h Luxury truly stands out with its elegant and purposeful design, inside and out.

• Exterior Design:
  • Signature Spindle Grille: Dominates the front, giving it an aggressive yet sophisticated look.
  • Sleek Silhouette: A low, coupe-like roofline flows smoothly to the rear, enhancing its dynamic presence.
  • LED Lighting: Sharp L-shaped LED headlights and taillights not only look futuristic but also offer excellent illumination.
  • Alloy Wheels: Stylish alloy wheels complement the premium appeal.
• Interior Design:
  • Craftsmanship: The cabin is a masterclass in luxury, with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and intricate stitching.
  • Comfort and Space: Plush seating for five, with ample legroom and headroom, especially for rear passengers.
  • Ergonomic Layout: The dashboard is driver-focused, with controls easily accessible and intuitively placed.
  • Quiet Cabin: Excellent sound insulation ensures a serene and quiet ride, typical of Lexus.

Key Features

The ES 350h Luxury is packed with modern amenities to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

• Infotainment Screen: Large 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
• Connectivity: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Sunroof: An electric sunroof to brighten up the cabin.
• 360-degree Camera: Provides a complete view around the car, making parking and maneuvering easy.
• Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones.
• Climate Control: Three-zone automatic climate control for personalised comfort for all occupants.
• Ventilated Seats: Front ventilated seats for added comfort in Indias warm climate.
• Premium Audio System: High-quality sound system for an immersive audio experience.
• Power Adjustable Seats: Both front and rear seats (in some variants) offer power adjustments.

What is the Ground Clearance of Lexus ES 350h Luxury?

• Ground Clearance: 154 mm

What is the Boot Space of Lexus ES 350h Luxury?

• Boot Space: 454 litres

What is the Dimensions of Lexus ES 350h Luxury?

• Length: 5305 mm
• Width: 1975 mm
• Height: 1665 mm
• Wheelbase: 3030 mm

Powertrain Options

In India, the Lexus ES is primarily offered with one highly efficient powertrain option:

• ES 350h: This is the self-charging hybrid setup combining a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. This system is tuned for optimal balance between performance, refinement, and fuel efficiency. There are no other pure petrol or diesel engine options currently available for the ES in the Indian market.

Safety Features

Lexus prioritises safety, and the ES 350h Luxury comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features.

• Airbags: 10 airbags (front, side, curtain, and knee airbags).
• ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
• Brake Assist: Assists in emergency braking situations.
• Traction Control (TRC): Helps maintain grip on slippery surfaces.
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of control.
• Hill Start Assist: Prevents rollback on inclines.
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts about low tyre pressure.
• Lexus Safety System+ (ADAS features):
  • Pre-collision System (PCS)
  • Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
  • Automatic High Beam (AHB)
  • Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)

NCAP Rating Table

Understanding car safety is crucial, and NCAP ratings provide an independent assessment.

Note: While specific Bharat NCAP ratings may not be available for premium imports like the Lexus ES 350h, its Euro NCAP performance and comprehensive safety features underline its strong commitment to occupant protection.

Rivals of Lexus ES 350h Luxury

In the competitive Indian luxury sedan market, the Lexus ES 350h competes with several established players:

• Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• BMW 3 Series
• Audi A4
• Volvo S60

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Every car has its strengths and weaknesses. Here is a balanced look at the Lexus ES 350h Luxury.

Pros

• Unmatched Refinement: The ride quality is exceptionally smooth and quiet, absorbing bumps effortlessly.
• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid powertrain delivers outstanding mileage for a luxury sedan.
• Premium Cabin Quality: High-quality materials, impeccable finish, and comfortable seats make it a joy to be in.
• Lexus Reliability and Service: Renowned for bulletproof reliability and top-notch customer service.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: Packed with active and passive safety technologies.
• Distinctive Styling: Stands out from its German rivals with a unique and elegant design.

Cons

• Performance: While adequate, it is not as sporty or powerful as some of its German rivals, especially from a standing start.
• Infotainment Interface: While improved with the touchscreen, some users might still find it less intuitive than competitors systems (though this is subjective).
• Rear Seat Space: While generally good, very tall passengers might find headroom slightly limited due to the sloping roofline.
• Price: Being a CBU (Completely Built Unit) import, it carries a premium price tag compared to locally assembled rivals.

Conclusion

The Lexus ES 350h Luxury is a compelling choice for car buyers in India who prioritise comfort, refinement, exceptional fuel efficiency, and peace of mind that comes with Lexus reliability and service. It offers a unique blend of luxury and eco-friendliness in a segment often dominated by performance-oriented Germans. If your priorities lean towards a serene driving experience, a plush cabin, and strong long-term value, the ES 350h Luxury truly stands out. While it may not be the fastest in its class, its overall package makes it a highly recommendable luxury sedan that offers a distinct and sophisticated alternative. Consider it a smart and sensible luxury car that feels truly special.