The all-new eighth-generation Lexus ES 350h has arrived in Malaysia, bringing a new-generation hybrid powertrain, a more spacious cabin and an extensive range of technology and comfort features to the luxury executive sedan segment.
Priced from RM366,888, the ES 350h Luxury is powered by Lexus’ sixth-generation hybrid system, pairing a 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery.
The petrol engine produces 139kW (189PS) at 6,000rpm and 235Nm of torque between 4,200rpm and 5,000rpm. The electric motor contributes up to 150kW and 270Nm, giving the hybrid system a combined maximum output of 182kW (247PS).
Power is delivered to the front wheels through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), which works with neither a belt nor pulley system but uses planetary gearset instead.
The ES 350h accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 200kph. Its claimed fuel consumption is 4.4 litres per 100km (NEDC test cycle).
The hybrid system uses a 251.6V lithium-ion battery comprising 68 cells. As a self-charging hybrid, the ES 350h does not require an external charging connection.
Drivers can select from four driving modes – Normal, Eco, Sport and Custom – through Drive Mode Select, allowing the car’s characteristics to be adjusted according to driving conditions and preferences.
Larger Dimensions And Updated Design
The new ES measures 5,140mm long, 1,920mm wide and 1,555mm tall, with a 2,950mm wheelbase.
It has a kerb weight ranging from 1,810kg to 1,880kg, depending on specification, and offers 493 litres of boot capacity. The fuel tank holds 55 litres, while minimum ground clearance is 138mm.
Exterior features include Lexus’ latest spindle-body design, Twin L-signature LED headlamps, an illuminated Lexus rear logo and L-signature rear combination lamps.
The car rides on 19-inch medium grey metallic wheels wrapped in 235/55 R19 tyres. A slim panoramic roof with a single movable glass panel is also fitted.
Technology-Focused Cabin
Inside, the ES 350h adopts Lexus’ Tazuna-inspired cockpit concept, with key controls and displays positioned to make operation more intuitive while allowing the driver to remain focused on the road.
The dashboard features a 12.3-inch full-graphic digital instrument display with side illumination, complemented by a head-up display with a tilted image plane.
A 14-inch Full HD touchscreen multimedia system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
One of the cabin’s key features is a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with a subwoofer and Active Noise Control.
Other equipment includes wireless charging, digital rear view mirror, two USB Type-C ports rated at 60W in the front centre console and two USB Type-C ports rated at 45W for rear passengers.
The front seats offer eight-way power adjustment, three-level heating and ventilation, while the driver’s seat also has a memory function and power easy-access feature.
Lexus Climate Concierge coordinates cabin temperature and seat heating and ventilation. The dual-zone automatic air-conditioning system also incorporates S-Flow control and nanoe technology.
Ambient illumination offers a 64-colour palette and six lighting patterns.
Lexus Safety System+ 4.0
Safety and driver assistance are handled by Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which includes a Pre-Collision System with vehicle, pedestrian and bicyclist detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full-range operation, Lane Tracing Assist and Lane Departure Assist.
Other systems include Emergency Steering Assist with Active Support, Road Sign Assist, Traffic Movement Notification and automatic high-beam control.
The ES 350h also comes with Lexus Teammate Advanced Park, a Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitoring, Safe Exit Assist and Parking Support Alert and Brake.
Passive safety equipment includes dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags and front and rear curtain airbags.
With its latest hybrid system, comprehensive driver assistance technology and emphasis on cabin refinement, the new ES 350h continues Lexus’ approach to luxury motoring, offering buyers an alternative to conventional petrol-powered executive sedans without requiring them to make the switch to a fully electric vehicle.
CarTok Editor’s Note
The Lexus ES 350h competes in a segment where badge prestige carries considerable weight. But discerning buyers would look beyond the badge to what the car actually offers.
Its 247PS hybrid system provides a useful balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The self-charging arrangement also removes the need to plan around charging facilities, making it a straightforward proposition for buyers who want electrification without changing their established driving habits.
Ultimately, the ES 350h’s appeal will depend on how well it delivers on refinement, comfort and the overall ownership experience. These are qualities that matter maybe much more than the badge on the bonnet.
