Leftlane’s bottom line

Looking at the sales figures alone, the ES fills an obvious slot in the market that no other automaker has really chosen to take on. Priced more like the compact IS, the ES is sized like the GS but offers the comfort and convenience now-sporty Cadillac once coveted.

By today’s standards, it is a Japanese Buick, much like its distant Toyota Avalon cousin, albeit sporting a fancier badge and more opulent amenities. But with an impressive redesigned Buick LaCrosse on the horizon, Lexus should take this opportunity to tighten up the ES’ driving characteristics to keep it competitive. The automaker has proven, with the LS, that it can make a car that glides down the road but doesn’t whimper at the sign of a corner or provide the kind of feedback that might turn buyers off of a BMW.

Button this one down for the next-generation model and you’ll remain top dog in the segment, Lexus.

    See also:

    Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
    The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems with advanced dynamic handling technology to provide both agile handling and the Lexus trademark smooth ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and ...

    Emergency flashers
    Use the emergency flashers if the vehicle malfunctions or is involved in an accident. Without navigation system Press the switch to flash all the turn signal lights. To turn them off, press t ...

    Operating a USB memory player
    Connecting a USB memory player enables you to enjoy music from the vehicle speakers. Connecting a USB memory player Slide the armrest while pulling up the lever, and lift the armrest. Remove th ...