Lexus ES

Manufacturer	Lexus (Toyota)
Production	1989–present
Assembly	Kyūshū, Japan
Class	Mid-size luxury car/ Large family car/ Executive car
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FF layout

The Lexus ES series is a family of mid-size luxury sedans sold by Lexus since 1989. Now in its fifth generation, the series has been consistently built on the Toyota Camry platform with a V6 engine, automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. For much of its existence, the Lexus ES has anchored the entry-level luxury car segment of the Lexus lineup in North America, a position it maintained until the introduction of the Lexus IS sport luxury sedans in 2001. It was Lexus' only front-wheel drive vehicle until 1999, when the related Lexus RX 300 arrived. For over fifteen years, the Lexus ES has been the best-selling Lexus sedan in the United States.
The first through fourth generation Lexus ES sedans shared body styling elements with Japan-market Toyota sedans, and a domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Windom (トヨタ・ウィンダム), was sold until the launch of the fifth generation ES in 2006. The fifth generation ES 350, featuring Lexus' own L-finesse body styling, was unveiled in the spring of 2006 as a 2007 model. Like the previous generation ES 330 model, the fifth generation Lexus ES is geared towards the comfort luxury segment, with an emphasis on interior amenities, quietness, and a smooth ride.

First generation (V20)

First generation

Also called	Toyota Camry Prominent (V20) Toyota Vista (V20)
Production	1989–1991
Assembly	Japan: Toyota, Aichi
Engine	2.5 L 2VZ-FE V6
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed A540E automatic
Wheelbase	102 in (2,591 mm)
Length	183.1 in (4,651 mm)
Width	66.9 in (1,699 mm)
Height	53.1 in (1,349 mm)

1989–1991

The first Lexus ES (VZV21) debuted in January 1989 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit as part of the launch of the Lexus division. In order to avoid introducing the nameplate with only one model, the LS 400, Lexus debuted the ES alongside their flagship sedan. The smaller representative of the initial two-sedan Lexus lineup was designated the ES 250, and powered by the Camry's 2.5 L, 156 hp (116 kW) V6, which was aimed directly at the Acura Legend. The ES 250 was based on the Toyota Camry Prominent/Vista (V20), Japan-market sedans which were never sold in the United States.

Interior of Lexus ES 250 (VZV21)

On the exterior, the ES 250 shared the same general body style and overall dimensions as its Toyota counterparts, but had a more prominent grille, bigger tail lights, chrome trim, frameless windows, and distinct wheel design similar to its LS brethren. Inside the cabin, the ES 250 featured a six-speaker Pioneer sound system, genuine wood trim, one-touch power windows, and leather seats. A four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission was offered. The Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECT) featured "normal" and "power" modes.
Safety features included a driver's SRS airbag and anti-lock brakes. In typical specification, the ES 250 further included 15-inch alloy wheels, a power driver's seat, power moonroof, and CD player. Leather upholstery was common equipment, despite being listed as an option, while some ES 250s were also produced with cloth interiors.

Rear view of Lexus ES 250 (VZV21)

In September 1989, the ES 250 and the flagship LS 400 went on sale in the United States. The ES 250 was marketed as the "luxury sedan of sports sedans," and carried a U.S. market suggested base price of approximately $22,000. During the first month of release, the ES 250 logged 1,216 units in sales. However, these numbers were eclipsed by the larger LS sedan, which unlike the ES was built on a unique and all-new platform. The original LS had been envisioned as a standalone model, but Lexus dealerships had asked for an additional vehicle to accompany its launch. Due to its similarities to the Camry, some viewed the ES 250 as a placeholder product of badge engineering and the vehicle ultimately did not sell as well as its larger counterpart. Initial perception of the ES led some to believe all the development time and research spent creating the larger LS showed that they overlooked one of the reasons the LS was developed, which was the 1986 Acura Legend, so it seems that the appearance of the LS was shrunk to fit the ES so as to compete with the Legend.
Production totaled 19,534 units in 1990 and 17,942 units in 1991, most for the automatic transmission model. The ES 250 was built from August 30, 1989 until July 5, 1991. Because of its relatively brief production run, the ES 250 is a rare model on U.S. roads today.

Second generation (XV10)

Second generation

Also called	Toyota Windom (Japan)
Production	1991–1996
Model years	1992–1996
Assembly	Toyota City, Japan
Engine	2.5 L 2MZ-FE V6 (Japan) 3.0 L 3VZ-FE V6 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed A540E/A541E automatic
Wheelbase	103.1 in (2,619 mm)
Length	187.8 in (4,770 mm)
Width	1991–93: 70.1 inches (1,780 mm) 1993–96: 70.0 inches (1,780 mm)
Height	53.9 in (1,369 mm)
Related	Toyota Camry (XV10)

1991–1993

In September 1991, for the 1992 model year, Lexus unveiled the second generation Lexus ES (VCV10) almost one year after the introduction of the second generation Acura Legend October 24, 1990, but before Infiniti finally decided to add a similarly classed sedan, the J30.

1994 Lexus ES 300 interior (VCV10)

1993–1996 Lexus ES 300 (VCV10; Australia)

Completely redesigned and now sharing design features with the VCV10-series Toyota Windom and styling cues with the LS 400, the model was renamed the ES 300 to reflect the half-liter bump in engine displacement. The ES 300 sported a 185 hp (138 kW) 3.0 L 3VZ-FE V6 engine and had an advertised 0–60 time of 7.9 seconds. In Japan, a 172 hp (128 kW), 2.5 L 4VZ-FE version using the same body style was made available in October 1993 (including the VCV-11 Windom). Compared to its Camry relatives, the ES 300 featured separate styling, a different suspension setup (front and rear independent MacPherson strut) and 200 lb (91 kg) more weight due to asphalt insulation in the body panels, additional on-board equipment, and other differences. As with its predecessor, anti-lock brakes were standard. A 5-speed E53 manual or 4-speed A540/1E automatic transmission was offered.
The second generation ES was significantly larger and more curvaceous than its predecessor, gaining five inches (127 mm) in length and three inches (76 mm) of width. On the front fascia, the ES gained projector headlamps in a curved housing and a three-slat grille with the Lexus emblem moved above on the hood. The side profile featured an invisible B-pillar and frameless-window doors. The rear deck lid featured an integrated spoiler effect similar to the flagship LS 400, improving the ES' aerodynamics (C_d=0.32). Inside the cabin, the second generation ES featured California Walnut trim on the center console, leather seats, an eight-speaker premium sound system, and keyless entry. The added wheelbase length and overall width made for increased legroom and shoulder space than the previous model.
Production assembly of the ES 300 commenced on September 9, 1991, and the sedan went on sale later that year in the U.S. as a 1992 model. The sedan was not released in Europe, where similar Toyota models were offered. The second generation ES was a major sales success, becoming Lexus' best-selling vehicle overall. In its first full year of sales, the ES logged 39,652 units, and throughout the following years of its production run, sales reached near or above that figure. Initial base price was $26,550 in the U.S. (increased to over $30,000 in later years). By 1994, in part because of the rising yen and high demand, the manufacturer's suggested retail price had increased to $31,200, 19.3 percent more than the original 1992 figure.

1993–1996 Lexus ES 300 (VCV10; Australia). Note the revised three-slot grille compared to the four-slot grille found on the pre-facelift models.

1993–1996

Minor updates were introduced in 1993 for the 1994 model year, including: a revised grille insert, a new passenger side airbag, outside air temp readout, and CFC-free air conditioning. In North America, the 1993 update introduced the new all-aluminum 1MZ-FE engine with 188 hp (140 kW). This change in engine resulted in a change in model code for the car (now known as the MCV10 series). Other markets retained the 3VZ-FE engine (keeping the VCV10 model code).
Different signal and fog lights were added in 1995, and the five-speed manual transmission was discontinued after 1993. In 1996, Lexus offered an ES 300 "Coach Edition," featuring select Coach leather trim in the interior and a set of Coach luggage. Despite being its final year of sales, the 1996 ES 300 logged a 21 percent increase in sales over the previous year, and 40,735 units were produced that year.

 

Third generation (XV20)

Third generation

Also called	Lexus ES 300 Toyota Windom (Japan)
Production	1996–2001
Model years	1997–2001
Assembly	Kyūshū, Japan
Engine	2.5 L 2MZ-FE V6 (Japan) 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 (VVT-i)
Transmission	4-speed A541E automatic
Wheelbase	105.1 in (2,670 mm)
Length	190.2 in (4,831 mm)
Width	70.5 in (1,791 mm)
Height	54.9 in (1,394 mm)
Related	Toyota Camry (XV20)

1996–1999

The third generation ES (designated MCV20) premiered in September 1996 for the 1997 model year, featuring a design that was an evolution of the VCV10. The new cars featured a 30 percent stiffer body with a more rakish profile and sharper lines, reflector headlights (as opposed to projector headlights), and a more upscale-feeling interior. Introduced at a gala event on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills hosted by actress Sharon Stone, the ES 300 featured one powertrain option, a 200 hp (150 kW) 3.0 liter V6 (a 197 hp (147 kW), 2.5 liter 2MZ-FE V6 was also offered in the Japan-market Windom) and a four-speed automatic. The third generation ES was also slightly longer (overall length increased by 2.4-inch (61.0 mm)) but weighed less than the previous model, and its drag coefficient was C_d=0.29, improved over its predecessor. For the first time, an Adaptive Variable Suspension, capable of adjusting individual wheels dampers according to road conditions (within 0.0025 seconds), was offered.

MY1997–2000 ES 300 interior (MCV20; U.S.)

Inside the cabin, the ES 300 featured a new electroluminescent Lexus Optitron instrument panel, walnut trim, and leather seats. Other luxury standard features included heated outside mirrors and an automatic climate control system. A power moonroof, Nakamichi premium sound system with in-glove-box mounted CD changer, and heated seats were options.
The U.S. base price of the 1997 ES 300 was $30,395. The third generation Lexus ES expanded upon the success of the previous generation model, reaching a record-setting 58,430 units in sales in its first year, and recording sales in the 35,000–50,000 range throughout its production run.

1996–1999 Lexus ES 300 (MCV20R) LXS sedan (Australia)

In 1997 for the 1998 model year, the ES received a few updates, mainly consisting of a revised supplemental restraint system (next generation), standard front row side-torso airbags, and force limiting seat belt pretensioners that were designed to tighten the front seat passengers into their seats upon impact. Transponder chips were now also used in the keys as to provide added protection from theft. The power rating grew to 210 hp (157 kW) in 1998 (1999 model year) due to the new 1MZ-FE engine with variable valve timing (VVT-i).
The Lexus IS was introduced to European markets in 1999 and became the luxury marque's entry-level model; by this time the Lexus ES was no longer sold in most European markets. Recent versions of the Lexus ES were sold in North America, Asia, and Australia.

1999–2001

MY2000–2001 Lexus ES 300 (MCV20; U.S.)

The ES 300 received a mild facelift in 1999 for the 2000 model year that consisted of new, clear tail lights and turn signals, a revised front end with a new grill, headlights, and lower bumper with clear fog lights and larger alloy wheels. Inside, the interior received an electrochromatic mirror, more wood trim and slight revisions to the audio system. Xenon High-Intensity Discharge headlights with auto-leveling were now optional. From 1998 through 2001 (1999 to 2001 model years), a limited "Coach Edition" was offered, and in 1999 for 2000, a "Platinum Edition" package was offered, including power moonroof, unique interior trim, and custom alloy wheels.

 

Fourth generation (XV30)

Fourth generation

Also called	Lexus ES 300 Lexus ES 330 Toyota Windom (Japan)
Production	2001–2006
Model years	2002–2006
Assembly	Kyūshū, Japan
Engine	3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6
Transmission	5-speed U151E automatic
Wheelbase	2,720 mm (107.1 in)
Length	4,853 mm (191.1 in)
Width	1,811 mm (71.3 in)
Height	1,455 mm (57.3 in)
Related	Toyota Camry (XV30)

2001–2003

The larger, fourth generation ES (designated MCV30) debuted in 2001 for the 2002 model year, one year after the Lexus IS became Lexus' entry-level car. The presence of the IS in the Lexus lineup enabled the company to give the new ES 300 a more upscale image and luxury feel by excising the sporting pretensions of the previous ES models. Compared to its predecessor, the new ES possessed an interior with a greater emphasis on comfort, superior NVH isolation, larger and softer seats, and improved interior materials. On the exterior, the ES gained a more rounded shape than its predecessor, with pulled-back headlamps and a single-tone color scheme with chrome trim. New design elements similar to the LS sedan included a rear quarter window and wrap-around taillamps with a diagonal edge. The more aerodynamic shape had a drag coefficient of C_d=0.28. In Japan, the MCV30 Windom received a 2-star LEV rating.

Lexus ES 300 interior (MCV30; US)

The cabin was fitted with California Walnut wood trim on the front dashboard, center console, and doors. Exterior puddle lamps, floor-well lighting, chrome door handles, an electric rear sunblind, and rear-view mirrors that would automatically tilt downward in reverse gear contributed to a more upscale feel. Available options, including a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a DVD-based navigation system, and a Mark Levinson premium stereo system, were similar to features on the flagship LS 430 sedan.
Despite the additional features and added weight, neither the acceleration nor the handling of the ES suffered. Other new features included a drive-by-wire electronic throttle, a five-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist as well as electronic stability and traction control systems. The fourth generation Lexus ES was built in Kyūshū and Toyota, Aichi, Japan.

Lexus ES 300 (MCV30; Canada)

The fourth generation ES 300/330 continued the solid success of the ES series for Lexus. Despite an increase in price befitting its more upscale amenities (2002 base price of $32,080), ES sales jumped to 71,450 in its first year, making the Lexus ES the best-selling luxury car in the United States. Throughout its production run, the fourth generation ES was Lexus' best-selling sedan, and outsold only in the Lexus model range by the RX luxury utility vehicle.
U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test results in 2003 rated the ES 300 the maximum five stars in the Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, and Side Driver categories, and four stars in the Side Rear Passenger and Rollover categories.

2003–2006

MY2006 Lexus ES 330 (MCV31)

During 2003, for the 2004 model year, the American market received a revised 3.3 liter engine producing 225 horsepower (168 kW) (later revised to 218 horsepower (163 kW), because of changes in SAE power testing procedures), and the car was renamed the ES 330 (codename MCV31, however, the 3.0 L engine MCV30 model was still available). Lexus released the limited ES 330 "SportDesign" special edition in 2004. The model featured the Adaptive Variable Suspension, 17-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, Mark Levinson audio, interior upgrades, and special dark exterior colors.
In 2004 for the 2005 model year, the ES received a facelift with new front and rear fascias, clear taillights, projector headlights, and a redesigned grille. Inside, new features included standard audio and display steering wheel-mounted controls, power adjustable pedals and heated and ventilated front seats. Additionally, new Bird's Eye Maple trim brightened the interior and integrated satellite radio was offered as an option. Lexus also offered an exclusive ES 330 "Black Diamond Edition" in 2005, featuring black wood trim, iridescent Black Diamond paint, and a set of Tumi luggage.

 

Fifth generation (XV40)

Fifth generation

Also called	Lexus ES 350/240
Production	2006–present
Model years	2007–present
Assembly	Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan
Engine	2.4 L 2AZ-FE I4 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6
Transmission	6-speed U660E automatic
Wheelbase	2,776 mm (109.3 in)
Length	4,853 mm (191.1 in)
Width	1,821 mm (71.7 in)
Height	1,450–1,430 mm (57.1–56.3 in)
Related	Toyota Aurion Toyota Camry (XV40)

Main article: Lexus ES (XV40)

2006–2009

The fifth generation ES (GSV40) debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2006, featuring an all-new body in the style of Lexus' new design philosophy, L-finesse. The new design is sleeker than its predecessor, with a streamlined cabin and character lines across the hood, fenders, and rear pillars, and C_d=0.28. The vehicle also no longer shared its body style with Japanese market models, as the previously related Toyota Windom was discontinued for the 2007 model year. The new ES, now called the ES 350, features the first use of a six-speed automatic transmission in a front-wheel drive Toyota vehicle along with its sister U.S. car, the Toyota Camry. The engine is the 272 hp (203 kW) aluminum 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6 engine with intake and exhaust variable valve timing. Lexus estimates that this combination will accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in less than 7 seconds.

Lexus ES 350 interior (GSV40)

The ES 350 interior features walnut wood accents, leather seats, dual zone climate control with air filter, an MP3 player auxiliary input, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and eight standard airbags. A keyless entry and ignition system, Lexus SmartAccess, is now standard, while options range from a 300-watt, 14-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, to sonar-based warning system with backup camera. An "Ultra Luxury Package" added a three-panel panoramic glass moonroof. The ES also features a secondary start system, that runs on battery, so that the driver does not have to use the engine for accessory functions. The secondary system will let the driver use the radio, GPS, Bluetooth, and air conditioning/heating.

Moonroof-equipped ES 350 (GSV40)

The ES 350 arrived at U.S. dealerships in late April 2006 as a 2007 model. That year, the ES 350 was launched in North America, the Middle East, China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau), South Korea and Taiwan. Like its predecessors, the fifth generation ES continued to be made in Japan, at the Kyūshū plant in Fukuoka, Japan. Despite being built in the country, the ES 350 was not sold in the Japanese market, as well as the other regions with right-hand drive.
U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test results in 2007 rated the ES 350 the maximum five stars in the Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, and Side Driver categories, and four stars in the Side Rear Passenger and Rollover categories.

2009–present

MY2010-2012 ES 350 (GSV40; US)

In 2009, the 2010 model year ES underwent a mid-cycle facelift, with revised front and rear styling including a reshaped grille, taillight designs, and new wheels. The updated interior featured added wood and chrome accents, with upgraded VoiceBox speech recognition, Bluetooth phone book downloading, and Lexus Insider, XM Weather, Sports, and Stocks reports. Bluetooth streaming audio and a USB port that includes iPod integration is now built into the stereo. In the Chinese auto market, the 2010 ES lineup added a second model, the ES 240, which was produced to comply with the country's new emission laws for luxury cars,making this the first gasoline four-cylinder Lexus since the 2005 IS. The ES 240 received a 2.4L 2AZ-FE inline-four engine producing 123 kW (165 hp) and 224 N·m (165 ft·lbf) of torque at 4000 rpm.

 

Sales and production

Sales by calendar year
	1990	1991	1992	1993	1994	1995	1996	1997	1998	1999
US	20,728	22,476	39,652	35,655	39,108	41,508	44,773	58,430	48,644	45,860
	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
US	41,320	44,847	71,450	65,762	75,916	67,577	75,987	82,867	64,135	48,485
Production by calendar year
	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Global	n/a	n/a	91,209	82,025	93,004	79,422	87,271	121,286	99,400	74,481
	2010
Global	89,212

 

Technical specifications

Drivetrain specifications by generation
	1989–1991	1991–1996	1997–2001	2001–2003	2003–2006	2006–present	2010–present
Engine	2.5 L V6	3.0 L V6	3.0 L V6	3.0 L V6	3.3 L V6	3.5 L V6 (ES 350)	2.4 L I4 (ES 240)
Gears	4 (AT) or 5 (MT)	4 (AT) or 5 (MT)	4	5	5	6	5
Power	116 kW (156 hp)	138 kW (185 hp)	150 kW (200 hp)	160 kW (210 hp)	163 kW	(219 hp)	203 kW (272 hp)	123 kW (165 hp)
Torque	220 N·m (160 lb·ft) @4400 rpm	264 N·m (195 lb·ft) @4400 rpm	290 N·m (210 lb·ft) @4400 rpm	300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @4400 rpm	330 N·m (240 lb·ft) @3600 rpm	346 N·m (255 lb·ft) @4700 rpm	224 N·m (165 lb·ft) @4000 rpm

 

Awards

• U.S News and World Report named the 2009 Lexus ES 350 the Best Upscale Car for the Money.
• Consumer Reports named the ES 350 the highest ranked upscale/large car in reliability in its 2006 annual car survey.
• The Canadian Car of the Year Awards, selected by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, gave the ES 350 its Best New Luxury Car (under $50k) Award in 2007.
• J.D. Power and Associates named the ES 300 the best entry luxury car in Initial Quality in 1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003 and 2006.
• Intellichoice gave the ES 330 the Best Overall Value Award in the Near Luxury Segment in 2004, 2005, and 2007.
• Kelley Blue Book gave the ES its Best to Hold Value Award in 1998 and 2001.
• J.D. Power named the ES as one of the Top Ten in Initial Quality in 1991, 1993, and 1994.
• The ES series was named most appealing entry luxury car by J.D. Power and Associates in 1997, 2001 and 2007.
• Kiplinger's Personal Finance report named the Lexus ES Best in Class for the over $30,000 segment in 1993, and the ES was a Top Pick in 2007.
• Automobile Magazine named the Lexus ES one of its Top Ten All-Stars in 1992.