arches.
It’s obvious to me why Lexus no longer uses the “relentless pursuit of perfection” ad line; they achieved it with the 2013 ES 350 luxury sedan. It is a beautiful automobile in every detail.
The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with Dual VVT-i. The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides excellent performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts, while low friction materials further improve efficiency.
The new ES has a lower profile and clean, continuous styling, with all four corners pulled tightly inward to the wheel arches. The wheelbase has been lengthened by 1.8 inches, while the overall length has grown by just one inch, resulting in a more spacious interior.
The new ES has the new look of Lexus with the distinctive spindle grille, LED daytime running lights and combination rear lights. The rear bumper has dual exhaust pipes, while the ES 300h hybrid has a distinctive rear design with hidden exhaust and an integrated spoiler. New exterior colors include Fire Agate Pearl and Silver Lining Metallic.
The interior of the 2013 ES has been designed to give both a sense of openness and security. Sightlines and visibility are improved, controls are logically placed and new cabin materials have a high level of craftsmanship.
A newly sculptured seat adds to driver comfort and the steering wheel angle has been reduced from 24 degrees to 22 degrees for a more natural control position. Fluidfilled engine mounts, new sound absorbing materials and a tuned engine intake minimize outside noise.
Greater rear seat legroom and knee room are evident in the redesigned, more spacious cabin. Knee room has increased by 2.8 inches and legroom by 4.1 inches. The new design also offers additional foot room below the front seats.
Available comfort and convenience features include manual door window shades, a power rear shade and a one-touch power trunk closer. Optional ambient lighting under the wood trim softly illuminates the surfaces of the instrument panel and all four doors.
The new ES has enhanced NuLuxe seating surfaces, developed to reduce environmental impact. Genuine leather is also available, as is semi-aniline leather for an even more refined look and feel. Interiors are available in Black, Light Gray and Parchment. Trim colors and materials include Piano Black, Espresso Bird’s-eye Maple and Bamboo.
Suspension and steering changes and a stiffer body deliver more precise handling. Opposite-wound coil springs on the front suspension enhance straight-line stability. A revised rear suspension and improved shock absorber damping characteristics enhance ride comfort.
MSRP on the 2013 Lexus ES350 is $36,995.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com
