2019 Lexus ES spied undisguised

- Lexus ES will enter into a new generation in 2019.

- It will undergo some cosmetic updates with a revised front grille while moving onto the TNGA platform.

- Expected to break cover at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show on 25 April.

In August last year, we brought to you the first sighting of the Lexus ES while testing in the remote deserts of Arizona. It was benchmarking its direct rivals - Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 – while hiding a redesigned fascia. Now, thanks to a leaked image, we can confirm that the new-gen ES sedan will get a new grille and an even sleeker look than the current car.

The ES will adopt the trademark Spindle Grille but it appears to be less intimidating than the one seen on the LS flagship. Compared to the current ES, the headlights are redesigned to be sleeker and more modern, but it retains the overall shape. The grille is now made up of vertical slats as opposed to the horizontal ones on the current model. The bumper has chrome inserts and redesigned fog lamps, both of which are more akin to the LS.

The seventh-gen ES will move to the same Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. It underpins all the new products from Toyota and Lexus. The platform is coupled with an entry-level V6 motor with a combined hybrid powertrain in the 200h trim. The front-wheel drive will come as a standard. One may also expect all the relevant safety and creature comforts to be offered with this car.

The new-gen ES is expected to be revealed at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show on 25 April. It will continue to take on the German trio of Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series apart from the Jaguar XF and Volvo S90. Lexus is likely to bring the ES to India as well shortly after it goes on sale next year.