WEEKEND DRIVE
ES-pecially for you
By David Light
Friday, August 17, 2012

The Lexus ES arrives in the UAE

Al-Futtaim Motors has unveiled the all-new 2013 Lexus ES. Featuring a new design and enhanced handling, the 2013 ES sedan is set to continue as a favourite of luxury car buyers.

The ES 350 is powered by a 2GR-FE V6 Dual VVT-i engine, featuring advanced technologies and provides decent acceleration and sporty driving. The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides enhanced performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts. Low friction materials further improve efficiency. In addition to ES350, Lexus newly introduces ES 250 which is powered by a 2AR-FE I4 Dual 4-Valve Dual VVT-i engine and has adopted various features such as roller rocker arm system which help achieve advanced engine performance and low fuel consumption.

The new ES features a lower profile, and clean, continuous styling lines from front to rear. All four corners are pulled tightly inward to the wheel arches, creating distinctive proportions. The wheelbase of the new ES has been lengthened by 45mm, while the overall length of the vehicle has grown by just 25mm, resulting in a more 
spacious interior. 

The car bears the new face of Lexus with its distinctive, spindle grille. High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps have been adopted ensuring superb nighttime visibility. LED daytime running lights, which enhance product appeal while effectively ensuring visibility, and combination rear lamps, which enhance appearance and fuel economy, reflect the “L” design motif.

The modern interior of the 2013 ES has been designed to provide a sense of openness and security. Sightlines and visibility are improved, controls are logically placed, and new cabin materials express a high level of craftsmanship.

A newly sculptured seat enhances driver comfort. A power tilt and telescopic steering column has been adopted. The steering wheel position can be adjusted in the up/down and forward/rearward directions, ensuring an optimum driving posture. Fluid-filled engine mounts, new sound absorbing materials and a tuned engine intake minimise the intrusion of outside noise.

Available comfort and convenience features include manual door window shades, a power rear shade, and a one-touch power trunk closer.  Optional ambient lighting, discreetly placed under the wood trim, softly 
illuminates the surfaces of the instrument panel and all four doors.

Designed with attention to ergonomics and driver focus, the cockpit features separate display and operation zones to help keep the driver’s eyes on the road.  For example, controls are clustered beneath the information zone, on the steering wheel, and on the center console.

The second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located on the center console. RTI reduces eye and hand movement, helping reduce effort and distraction.

An array of safety features also aid the driver.  The available Blind Spot Monitor helps detect vehicles in side blind spots.  Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is integrated with automatic high beam dimming technology.

The brake control system features that have been adopted include: Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Emergency Stop Signal. A brake mechanism developed with the concept of braking performance that provides the driver with a sense of security has been adopted, realising excellent brake feeling and anti-fade 
performance. Ventilated front 17-inch (V6) or 16-inch( L4) disc brakes are available and solid rear 16-inch disc brakes have been adopted.

The Lexus ES starts at Dhs1,55,000 and is now 
on sale at all Al-Futtaim Lexus showrooms.

david@khaleejtimes.com

 

 

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