From its debut in 1989, the Lexus ES has been Lexus’ top-selling sedan, one that prioritizes refinement and solitude over driving thrills. While endearing to older drivers who prefer a comfortably sedate sedan, it did little to attract younger buyers who understandably thought that ES was an acronym for Elderly Shuttle rather than Executive Sedan, its true nom de guerre.
Selling in more than 90 countries, Lexus is about to release the redesigned 2019 Lexus ES, which employs an all-new platform that it shares with the 2019 Toyota Avalon. In fact, the 2019 ES shares the 2019 Avalon’s 113-inch wheelbase and 195.9-inch overall length. This means the ES has grown 2.6 inches longer, 0.2 inches lower and 1.8 inches wider than before. The wheelbase has also grown by 2 inches, allowing for an exceptionally roomy cabin, particularly in the rear seat. In fact, according to Lexus, the ES has more rear seat legroom than the flagship Lexus LS sedan. Overall size is larger than a BMW 3 Series, but smaller than the 5 Series.