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• The latest Lexus ES has been fitted with rear cross traffic alert and brake functions across the range.
• Inside the cabin, the ES benefits from small changes to make life easier for its occupants.
• Visit Wheels24 for more stories.
The Lexus mid-size sedan ES benefits from interior design changes and some minor under-the-skin upgrades.
As standard across the range, the ES has Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Brake (RCTA-B). The ICS integrates the functionality of the alert by camera function (RCTA) and auto brake by sonar function (RCTA-B), says Lexus.
This technology utilises both front- and rear-mounted sensors to detect static objects ahead and behind the vehicle, and for the first time on the ES, crossing vehicles that may be approaching behind.
How it works
Working during the vehicle's initial forward or reverse acceleration from standstill and when the vehicle is moving at up to 15km/h, the RCTA-B, ICS and PKSB systems can firstly help warn the driver of an imminent parking or pedestrian collision says Lexus.
The ES range systems can now apply braking in reverse if a driver fails to respond or provide adequate braking response to a collision.
A Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, now becomes standard on the ES 300 EX and ES 300h EX grades, they were previously only available in the top spec SE hybrid grade.
Ease of use
The spec changes introduces some innovative interior upgrades including a new Power Window Switch which features typical Lexus satin-plating ornamentation.
Practical changes include the frequently used OK and Cancel buttons on the steering wheel being slightly raised by 0.8mm, all in the aim of enhancing distinctiveness and operability for the driver says Lexus.
On the centre console area, a cut-out is provided for the small item storage in consideration of usability for when taking out cards for example. The power AUX/USB port lid has also been changed from horizontal to a vertical opening type.
In addition, the lid can stay open so that the driver or passenger can easily connect to or disconnect from the ports. Furthermore, the audio switch adopts a metallic hue, says the Japanese carmaker.
Safety wise, the system helps prevent an accident from happening among other things, includes; All-speed Radar Active Cruise Control (RACC), a Pre-Collision Safety system (PCS) with pedestrian detection and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA).
The brand's Safety System joins safety technology that also continue as standard for the ES 300h SE grade, including a panoramic view monitor reversing camera, 10 airbags, LED low-beam headlights with automatic high beam (AHB) and a tyre pressure warning system.
Lexus SA Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Glenn Crompton; says the latest upgrades to the ES reflects the luxury lifestyle brand's commitment to regular updates for key models.
In 2019 Lexus says it controlled 39% market share of all hybrid and electric sales in the premium sector. The new IS will arrive locally early next year.
The range consists of three model grades in the ES range, starting with the entry-level EX petrol grade which retails for R663 000. On the hybrid front, the hybrid EX grade retails for R799 600 while the flagship hybrid SE retails for R931 400.
All models grades come standard with a seven year or 105 000km warranty and full maintenance plan. The vehicles' service intervals are at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year.
Compiled by Sean Parker
