Lexus is preparing to launch the eighth generation of its flagship ES sedan this June, marking a significant strategic pivot for the brand. In a move that reflects the shifting landscape of the British automotive market, the ES will be sold exclusively as an electric vehicle (EV) in the UK, distinguishing it from its European counterparts which will still offer hybrid options.
A Targeted Approach for the UK Market
While Western European customers will have the choice between a 199bhp hybrid powertrain and two different electric setups, Lexus is tailoring its UK lineup to meet local demand. Because the UK has seen a much higher adoption rate of fully electric vehicles compared to much of continental Europe, the manufacturer has decided to skip combustion-based engines entirely for this market.
At launch, the UK-spec ES will be available in a single configuration: the front-wheel-drive 350e.
Key Specifications of the 350e:
- Powertrain: A single 221bhp electric motor.
- Battery: A 77kWh lithium-ion unit.
- Range: Approximately 329 miles per charge (pending official WLTP confirmation).
- Performance: 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds.
While the initial offering is limited, there are indications that a more powerful, dual-motor, four-wheel-drive ES 500e —producing 338bhp—may join the UK lineup at a later date, offering quicker acceleration (5.7 seconds) at the expense of total range.
Pricing and Luxury Tiers
The new ES positions itself as a premium contender against established rivals like the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series. Lexus has structured its pricing into three distinct trim levels to cater to different luxury requirements:
- Premium: Starting at £59,345.
- Premium Plus: Priced at £68,245.
- Takumi: The flagship tier at £72,545, featuring high-end amenities such as heated, vented, and reclining rear seats.
Design Evolution: Minimalist Interiors and Enhanced Comfort
The eighth generation represents a radical departure from the previous model, particularly regarding the driver experience. The interior has moved toward a minimalist, tech-focused cockpit heavily influenced by design trends in the Chinese market.
The centerpiece of the cabin is a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, which serves as the primary interface. To maintain a clean aesthetic, physical controls have been minimized, replaced by a row of haptic switches hidden beneath the screen that illuminate only when the vehicle is powered on.
Beyond the digital interface, Lexus has focused on structural improvements to enhance the driving experience:
– Increased Dimensions: The car is now 165mm longer than its predecessor, reaching a total length of 5.14m.
– Refined Chassis: Built on the GA-K platform (shared with the NX SUV), the chassis features increased rigidity to improve ride quality, quietness, and responsiveness.
The new ES aims to bridge the gap between high-tech minimalism and “first-class comfort,” prioritizing a quiet, refined cabin for all passengers.
Summary
By launching an EV-only model in the UK, Lexus is betting on the country’s rapid transition toward electrification. The new ES seeks to compete in the premium executive segment by combining a larger, more rigid chassis with a high-tech, minimalist interior.
