Second generation (1992-1996)In September 1991, Lexus unveiled the second generation Lexus ES (VCV10), an all-new executive sedan for the Lexus lineup. Completely redesigned for the 1992 model year and now based on the VCV10-series Toyota Windom, the model was renamed the ES 300 to reflect the half-liter bump in engine displacement. The ES 300 sported a 185 hp (138 kW) 3.0 L V6 engine and had an advertised 0-60 time of 8.0 seconds. In Japan, a 172 hp (128 kW), 2.5 L version using the same body style was made available in October 1993 (including the VCV-11 Windom) (Japanese: Toyota Windom). Compared to its Camry relatives, the ES 300 featured a different suspension setup (front and rear independent MacPherson strut) and 200 lb (91 kg) more weight due to asphalt insulation in the body panels, additional on-board equipment, and other differences. As with its predecessor, anti-lock brakes were standard. A 5-speed E53 manual or 4-speed A540/1E automatic transmission was offered.
The second generation ES was significantly larger and more curvaceous than its predecessor, gaining five inches (127 mm) in length and three inches (76 mm) of width. On the front fascia, the ES gained projector headlamps in a curved housing and a three-slat grille with the Lexus emblem moved above on the hood. The side profile featured an invisible B-pillar and frameless-window doors. The rear deck lid featured an integrated spoiler effect similar to the flagship LS 400, improving the ES' aerodynamics (drag coefficient, Cd 0.32). Inside the cabin, the second generation ES featured California Walnut trim on the center console, leather seats, an eight-speaker premium sound system, and keyless entry. The added wheelbase length and overall width made for increased legroom and shoulder space than the previous model.
Production assembly of the ES 300 commenced on September 9, 1991, and the sedan went on sale later that year in the U.S. as a 1992 model. The sedan was not released in Europe, where similar Toyota models were offered. The second generation ES was a major sales success, becoming Lexus' best-selling vehicle overall. In its first full year of sales, the ES logged 39,652 units, and throughout the following years of its production run, sales reached near or above that figure. Initial base price was $26,550 in the U.S. (increased to over $30,000 in later years). By 1994, in part because of the rising yen and high demand, the manufacturer's suggested retail price had increased to $31,200, 19.3 percent more than the original 1992 figure.
Minor updates were introduced between years, including: a new passenger side airbag (1994), outside air temp readout (1994), CFC-free air conditioning (1994), engine upgrades for less weight and more power (the all-aluminum 1MZ-FE in 1994) with 188 hp (140 kW) plus more efficiency and lower emissions (VVTi Variable Valve Timing - 1995), different signal and fog lights (1995); the five-speed manual transmission was discontinued after 1993.
In 1996, Lexus offered an ES 300 "Coach Edition," featuring select Coach leather trim in the interior and a set of Coach luggage. Despite being its final year of sales, the 1996 ES 300 logged a 21 percent increase in sales over the previous year, and 40,735 units were produced that year.
Video: MotorWeek 1992 Lexus ES300 5Speed Road TestThird generation (1997-2001)The third generation ES (designated MCV20) premiered in September 1996, featuring a design that was an evolution of the VCV10. The new cars featured a 30% stiffer body with a more rakish profile and sharper lines, reflector headlights (as opposed to projector headlights), and a more upscale-feeling interior. Introduced at a gala event on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills hosted by actress Sharon Stone, the ES 300 featured one powertrain option, a 200 hp (150 kW) 3.0 L V6 (a 197 hp (147 kW), 2.5 L 2MZ-FE V6 was also offered in the Japan-market Windom) and a 4-speed automatic. The third generation ES was also slightly longer (overall length increased by 2.4-inch (61.0 mm)) but weighed less than the previous model, and its drag coefficient was Cd 0.29, improved over its predecessor. For the first time, an Adaptive Variable Suspension, capable of adjusting individual wheels according to road conditions (within 0.0025 seconds), was offered.
Inside the cabin, the ES 300 featured a new electroluminescent Lexus Optitron instrument panel, walnut trim, and leather seats. Other luxury standard features included heated outside mirrors and an automatic climate control system. A power moonroof, Nakamichi premium sound system with in-glove-box mounted CD changer, and heated seats were options.
In 1998, the model received a few updates, mainly consisting of a revised supplemental restraint system (next generation), standard front row side-torso airbags, and force limiting seat belt pretensioners that were designed to tighten the front seat passengers into their seats upon impact. Transponder chips were now also used in the keys as to provide added protection from theft.
The power rating grew to 210 hp (157 kW) in 1999, and the model received a mild facelift in 2000 that consisted of new, clear tail lights and turn signals, a revised front end with a new grill, headlights, and lower bumper with clear fog lights and larger alloy wheels. Inside, the interior received an electrochromatic mirror, more wood trim and slight revisions to the audio system. Xenon High-Intensity Discharge headlights with auto-leveling were now optional. The third generation arrived in 2001 with virtually no changes. For 1999 through 2001, a limited "Coach Edition" was offered, and in 2000 a "Platinum Edition" package was offered, including power moonroof, unique interior trim, and custom alloy wheels.
The U.S. base price of the 1997 ES 300 was $30,395. The third generation Lexus ES expanded upon the success of the previous generation model, reaching a record-setting 58,430 units in sales in its first year, and recording sales in the 35,000-50,000 range throughout its production run. Rivals to the third generation ES 300 included the Acura TL, Audi A4, Cadillac Catera, Mazda Millenia, Infiniti I30, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Saab 9-5.
The Lexus IS was introduced to European markets in 1999 and became the luxury marque's entry-level model; by this time the Lexus ES was no longer sold in most European markets. Recent versions of the Lexus ES were sold in North America, Asia, and Australia.
Video: MotorWeek 1997 Lexus ES300 First Drive
Source: Wikipedia: Lexus ES
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