[table:07a6e3c4ca][row:07a6e3c4ca][col:07a6e3c4ca]The Lexus ES250 was introduced as the younger brother of the flagship LS400 in 1990. Toyota couldn't justify a new brand with an entirely new dealership system based solely on one model, so the Camry was taken apart and reassembled to meet Lexus' high quality standards.

The first generation ES250 (VZV21) was built in July 5th, 1989 in Tsutsumi, Japan. The car was equipped with a 2.5L, 156hp V6 which was shared with the Camry. The model only lasted two years, at which time the ES300 was introduced with the newly redesigned Camry.

Completely redesigned for 1992 and now based on the VCV10-series Toyota Windom, it was renamed the ES300 to reflect the half-liter bump in engine displacement. This second generation was significantly larger and more curvacious (as was the Camry) and sported a 185 hp engine. The 1993 Model ES was the last Lexus sedan to offer a 5-speed manual transmission until the IS 300 was introduced.

The third generation (codename MCV20) appeared in 1997 with a 200 hp V6. The Lexus IS took over from the ES as Lexus's entry-level car in 1998.

The fourth generation (codename MCV30) debuted in 2002, possessing, among other enhancements, a more luxurious interior and a drive-by-wire electronic throttle. Now that the sport end of the market was covered by the new Lexus IS, the ES became even more of a luxury car and dropped any sporting pretensions. In 2003, for the US and European markets, a new 3.3L engine making 225 hp replaced the old 3.0 L unit and the car was renamed ES330. The ES300 line is still continued for the Middle East and Asian markets, in the same shape as the new ES330.

The fifth-generation ES debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February of 2006. It will be crossing over to become a fullsize model, as it is based on the Toyota Avalon and will arrive at dealerships in the spring as a 2007 model.

The new ES features the first use of a six-speed automatic transmission in a front wheel drive Toyota vehicle. The engine is the 272hp aluminum 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 engine with VVTi. This combination should accelerate to 0-60 mph in less than 7 seconds. Fuel economy is estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

The vehicle features antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist as well as stability control and traction control. Other new features include a three-panel glass sunroof, radar-based adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a parking-assist warning system.

[col:07a6e3c4ca]90-91 ES250

92-96 ES300

97-01 ES300

02-06 ES300/330

07- ES350

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