Wheels

A car designed to inspire

June 28 - July 5, 2006
1413 views
Gulf Weekly A car designed to inspire

Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, the exclusive distributor for Lexus and Toyota vehicles in Bahrain, unveiled a new addition to the Lexus stable, the all-new Lexus ES 350.

From a styling standpoint, the ES marks the latest Lexus sedan to receive a complete redesign emphasising a more sculptural direction, one that now reveals a family resemblance across the entire passenger car line-up. With an over two-inch longer wheelbase and more than an inch wider track, the ES has a more confident stance. A long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck are characteristic of the new L-finesse design theme, recalling classic sports car proportions with a contemporary look unique to all new-generation Lexus sedans.
The interior of the new ES introduces a new level of craftsmanship. Premium wood, polished metal and leather accents provide a level of new luxury. Everything inside the ES is designed and styled to create a comfortable and harmonious interaction, with touchpoints that convey quality and refinement. The roomy, luxurious cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable.
Bright, clear Optitron gauges combined with integrated metallic and brown walnut wood trim help create a luxurious, ambience.
The ES 350’s 3.5-litre V6 engine delivers 272 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in an estimated zero-to-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, substantially quicker than the model it replaces. The highly sophisticated engine uses electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, which optimises the fuel mixture and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid derivability. The result is an improvement in engine efficiency with increased power and fuel economy.
The engine also benefits from reduced internal friction via chain-driven camshafts and roller-rocker arms that serve to increase efficiency.
The new ES comes standard with dual exhaust, which reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimises weight and improves durability. The integration of these technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency.
The front-wheel drive ES 350 features a six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift. The low-friction, high-efficiency gear train is lighter and more compact than the previous generation five-speed transmission with 20 per cent fewer parts and 24 per cent fewer hydraulic controls. Gear ratios are carefully matched to both engine horsepower and torque characteristics to provide very smooth yet responsive shifts for improved drivability.
In addition to a new look and feel, the new ES also improves upon the increasingly complex nature of automotive technology. The ES offers numerous standard features such as SmartAccess keyless entry and a new push-to-start ignition system that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without removing the access fob from their pocket or purse.
Lexus’ craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Dual-zone automatic climate control and 10-way power front seats, with available memory, highlight the front cabin. The supportive seats are available in leather and extra-soft upgraded perforated leather for additional comfort.
New standard safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an electronic traction-control system that uses both throttle and brake intervention to help control wheel spin.
In addition, the new ES provides 10 airbags. For 2007, the ES gains new knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as a twin-chamber front passenger airbag. Side-curtain airbags coupled with front seat-mounted airbags and the optional rear-seat side airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy management for the front and rear seat occupants.
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the new ES also includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. Sensors determine the severity of the accident and, in turn, the force with which to deploy the front airbags, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint. Rear-seat side airbags are offered optionally.
The all-new Lexus ES 350 is now on display at the Lexus showroom in Sitra (Tel: 17 730 730).

· Advertising Feature







More on Wheels