by Today, SUVs have flooded the automotive market. They are becoming larger, taller, and selling better than ever. Most automakers actively support this trend because SUVs generate high profits and benefit from environmental regulations. However, the Lexus ES is challenging this trend by releasing a new generation of its sedan.
Why Do Sedans Still Matter?
During the presentation of the new model, Lexus ES Chief Engineer Kohei Chiashi received a simple question: why do luxury sedans still matter in a world dominated by SUVs? His answer turned out to be unconventional for the corporate world.
“Personally, I love sedans. The situation where there are only SUVs everywhere does not make me personally happy. I was very determined not to give up the fight for the ES. We put everything we could into this model because we care about it deeply,” said Chiashi.
Which Lexus Sedans Have Already Been Lost?
These words carry particular weight when considering Lexus’s recent history. The company has already said goodbye to several sedan models: the GS was discontinued in 2020, the LS has become a niche product, and the future of traditional luxury sedans looks increasingly uncertain amid the dominance of SUVs.
A New Approach to the ES
To keep the ES relevant, Lexus did not limit itself to a simple update. The new generation has received hybrid and fully electric powertrains and has become larger and more spacious. Chiashi emphasized that the company did not view the ES as a compromise or a farewell tour. On the contrary, the focus was on preserving the model’s identity: comfort, interior space, and the ease of long-distance travel. Ironically, the ES may now be more important than ever. The fight for it turned out to be the right decision for everyone.
Interestingly, Lexus engineers are not just defending the sedan but are actively investing in its development. This shows that even in a world where SUVs dominate, classic car forms can find their enthusiasts. The new ES is not only a tribute to tradition but also an attempt to prove that sedans can compete with SUVs in terms of technology, space, and comfort. Perhaps this approach will help Lexus maintain the loyalty of customers who value elegance and handling, not just a high seating position.
