Lexus Unveils Sleek 2013 ES 350 and ES 300h Hybrid Sedans at the New York Auto Show [Pics & Video]

Blame prior experience, but of all Lexus models, the last one you would expect to impress with its styling would be the ES, yet the Japanese automaker did precisely just that with its sixth generation mid-size sedan that was officially revealed today at the New York International Auto Show.

With the 2013 model, Lexus has turned the ES from a bland mid-size model to a sleek looking sedan, which most other carmakers today wouldn’t have a problem describing it as a “four-door coupe”.

Even though the new ES incorporates the brand’s latest design language as seen on the 2013 GS for example, the overall result is much crispier and cleaner.

In terms of dimensions, the wheelbase of the new ES has been lengthened by 1.8 inches, while the overall length of the vehicle has grown by just one inch. Lexus promises a more spacious interior as knee room is increased by 2.8 inches and legroom by 4.1 inches. According to the company, the new design also offers additional foot room below the front seat.

The cabin itself has been designed from scratch, with the dashboard reminding us that of the new GS sedan. Among other notable features is the availability of the next-generation Lexus Enform system, a Display Audio package that adds a seven-inch screen, a backup camera, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, Bluetooth audio, phone transfer, and a vehicle information display.

The new ES is based on the platform of the latest Toyota Camry. Aside from the ES 350, for the first time ever, the ES will be available with Lexus Hybrid Drive.

The ES 350 is motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Dual VVT-I (Lexus hasn’t announced output figures yet) matched to a six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

The ES 300h makes use of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine and an electric motor to deliver an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of approximately 40 mpg combined city/highway. The system offers the driver four modes including Normal, Sport, Eco and EV.

Lexus has very high hopes for the new ES, something that was clearly evident in the speech given by the company’s vice president, Mark Templin, during the press conference at the New York Auto Show.

“This is no longer JUST an entry luxury car! This ES is SO good…it can go toe-to-toe with cars in more expensive segments…like the Mercedes Benz E Class. That’s how confident we are in this car!,” said Templin.

“It’s the same length and width…and has more interior space than the E Class. They both have 3.5 liter engines…yet…the ES will cost THOUSANDS less! And once you get a chance to drive the ES…you’ll experience its crisp, confident driving dynamics,” he added.

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