2012 LEXUS ES 350 6AT FWD (268 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Lexus introduced the ES model in 1989, and by 2012 it rushed through new models, facelifts, and improvements, reaching its sixth generation.

It was launched at the 2012 New York Motor Show, and its letters symbolized “Executive Sedan,” even though some Lexus dealers chose to communicate that it stood for “Elegance Sedan.” Either way, both definitions were good. For the sixth-generation ES, the Japanese premium brand added more engine options and, obviously, a hybrid drivetrain to provide better fuel efficiency.

Based on the same platform as the Toyota Camry, the ES featured the spindle grille at the front with its swept-back headlights towards the front fenders and corner-mounted turn signals. In the lower bumper, the apron was flanked on the sides by round fog lights, which contradicted the car’s sharp-angles styling. Its profile revealed a slight upward kink at the rear doors, just in front of the C-pillars. Finally, at the back, the ES featured wide taillights spread on the rear quarter panels and on the trunk lid.

Like any Lexus, the ES offered a nice interior garnished with expensive materials and excellent fittings. The dashboard focused on the driver with a small instrument cluster that featured two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer, flanked by the coolant temperature gauge on the left and the fuel level on the right. Lexus installed the screen for the infotainment unit atop the center stack into the dashboard. It was controlled via a controller placed on the center console. The cabin was good for up to five occupants, with two bucket seats at the front and a bench in the rear.

Under the hood, Lexus installed a wide engine choice, all gasoline-powered, ranging from 184 hp to 268 hp. The hybrid version featured a 2.5-liter inline-four Atkinson-cycle powerplant and an electric motor.