As the only Lexus sedan oriented to FWD, the ES 300 has been a staple for the line and the price-leading sedan. A third generational treatment emerged last year with a longer and taller package size plus dramatic new exterior and interior styling, refined suspension tuning for an enhanced ride quality and forceful power directed through a five-speed automatic transmission. It returns for 2003 with optional power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals. Power stems from an aluminum 3.0-liter V6 good for 210 hp. Passive safety features extend to side curtain air bags plus frontal and seat-mounted side air bags. The Lexus VSC system is also available, as is an adaptive variable suspension.
