Lexus ES350: Unique appeal.
The ES350 is a competent and impressive car in many ways. Under the
hood lies a 3.5-litre V6 developing 300 HP (272 HP Net) at 6200 rpm,
featuring dual variable valve timing which acts on both intake and
exhaust valves to improve torque and fuel efficiency while reducing
emissions.
The ES350 inculcates some very sophisticated wizardry to eliminate
cabin noise, and that makes the inside an unbelievably quiet place.
Engine noise and vibration is virtually non-existent at idle thanks
to an improved active control engine mount that counters vibration
in the low rev range. To further isolate irritating road noise, the
window glass now is constructed with three layers of film sandwiched
between two layers of glass, making the interior quieter. And finally,
Lexus has given the underbody an insulation coating to further aid
in controlling unwanted noise.
Front suspension setup consists of a McPherson strut with the rear
suspension chores handled by a strut with multi-link. This, coupled
with a wider track and slightly lower ground clearance, ensures surefooted
handling. Testing the ES350 on the road leading to the resort saw
it soak up the slight undulations in the road without any bothers.
The poise of the ES350 on secondary roads is exemplary and even when
thrown into corners with a touch of ambition results in no untoward
experiences. The 215/55R-17 inch tyres doing a fantastic job on keeping
the ES on the straight and narrow. Lexus, being a premium brand, had
to ensure that ride is not compromised in any which way and the fallout
is that some handling ability is sacrificed for ride comfort and this
car has a supremely comfortable ride. But having said this, most drivers
will find the power and handling to their liking as we did.
A new six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode sends
power out to the front wheels. This auto box is smooth and responsive..
Maybe a more macho shifter would give the ES that extra flavour. Having
said that, it is a breeze to use and in manual mode, its takes driving
to higher levels of enjoyment.
To rein in the 300 horses, it comes with four-wheel disc brakes with
ABS, electronic brake differential and Brake Assist to assure sure
stopping power. In case one encounters sand on the road, the standard
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) come into
play to help prevent the car from losing control. Being front-wheel
drive, this is no wolf in sheep’s clothing and as such demands
some respect in the way it is driven.
One of the new gizmos on the new ES350 are the headlamps that can
swivel independently of each other when making a turn. This is known
as Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS) headlamps, allowing the driver to
see around corners and thereby increasing safety at night. Nice one
this, and one that really does what it says can do. Safety features
abound and standard are driver and front passenger knee air bags,
front side air bags and side curtain air bags for all outboard passengers.
The new Lexus ES350 is a capable and quite impressive piece of automotive
flair and technology rolled in one. However, it still lacks the emotional
tug its just too clinical and may need a bit more work in this regard.
Even so, it is extremely refined with the expected comfort, first-class
safety features and surprising performance.
The Lexus ES350 now comes with a navigation system with a rear camera;
bluetooth hands-free phone system; front and rear sonar parking sensors;
SmartAccess etc etc. There are 2 grades available: Exclusive and Special.
Even the entry-level Exclusive version is heavily loaded with full-grade
leather and all the amenities of its other brethren. The only gizmos
it does not have includes the Satellite Navigation, Bluetooth and
rear camera.
Inside the ES350 is a swathe of expensive materials that have been
entwined together to create an ambience spelling class and luxurious
comfort. Materials, textures and colours have been integrated so
well together that one (and that includes myself) would want to
spend a lot of time cocooned in this car. Seats are leather (obviously!),
with the steering wheel and gear shifter knob encompassing leather
with wood. Talking of wood, there’s quite a bit of it on the
centre console as well as inserts on the doors. And this is the
real McCoy, no faux pas stuff from Lexus, mind you. The steering
wheel incorporates functions for handsfree telephone and audio system.
The instrument cluster is recessed with large dials providing clear
information to the driver.
The centre console is defined by the large EMV touch screen (which
is voice-activated should one so desire), below which sit the climate
control buttons and the audio system. To make a stylish representation
in something as humdrum as buttons and knobs, Lexus has provided
rectangular and circular buttons alongwith rotary switches resulting
in a blend of modern and traditional in an easy to see arrangement.
Looks good and feels good too! The navigation display also acts
as a screen for the small video camera located over the rear license
plate.
Lexus vehicles are brought to you in Oman by the Saud Bahwan Group.
In Oman, every Lexus vehicle comes with special benefits and privileges
such as a 6 years unlimited extended mileage protection –
AMAN BAHWAN and Lexus Prestige Club Card that offers 24 hours on-road
assistance from AAA, shopping discounts from more than 300 premium
outlets, Exclusive Meet & Greet Service at Seeb International
Airport, and much more.
Lexus has announced one of the most exciting Ramadhan festive Offers
of the recent times. The offer attractions include 2 years/30,000
kms. free service package, 2007 IS300 on grand raffle, opportunity
to win 30 Corollas (common raffle for Toyota, Daihatsu and Lexus),
attractive prices, hi-value gifts and 6 years protection. This year
Lexus has introduced two new models. During Ramadhan, Lexus showrooms
will remain open till midnight on weekdays and from 7.00 to midnight
– even on Fridays.
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