With the 2019 ES, Lexus India will finally give its European rivals something to think about
bits. The fit-finish too is top notch. You could be critical and say that some of the plastics used are a bit hard to touch and feel slightly out of place, but that's about it.
Hobson's choice
The ES 300h comes to India in only one topspec variant and a full array of tech goodies, including a huge and crisp head-up display that works better than most I've experienced. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen isn't touch operated, instead you get a trackpad to navigate through the screens. While improvements have been made, this system remains, to be honest, not very intuitive to use and takes some time getting used to. But I did like neatly laid-out buttons that offer easy access to key functions. What is brilliant is the 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with an output of 1800W, that a delivers crisp, clear sound making your drive all the more relaxing. The system comes equipped with Screen Cast instead of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Another feature worth mentioning is the hands free boot open and close function which is one of the easiest to use. Rather than wave your foot below the rear of the bumper, it detects the kick action, immediately performing the action flawlessly.
Overall, with the new ES, Lexus India will finally give its European rivals something to think about. All previous Lexus vehicles, with the possible exception of NX SUV, have been ridiculously priced, but the ES' `59.13 lakh (ex-showroom) is right up there with the E-Class and 5 Series. Now I wouldn't go so far as to call the new ES sporty but it is far better to drive, absolutely dramatic to behold, cosseting on the inside, superbly put together and, most importantly, feedback coming in from current Lexus owners is that the cost of ownership is almost Toyota-like and nowhere near what the Germans charge. That and the personalised attention and service levels will finally get footfalls at Lexus' grandly titled 'Guest Experience Centres'. Lexus don't have customers, they have guests! ⌧