Motor Car History
 Veteran - Vintage - Classic - Modern
Motor car history
Understanding the Automobile
Toggle Navigation
  • Home
  • Makes and models
  • Motor car History
  • Innovations
  • Trivia
  • Help Guide
  • links
  • You are here:  
  • Motor Car
  • Make and Model
  • L
  • Lexus
  • Lexus ES 3rd gen (1997-2001)

Lexus ES Third generation (XV20)

1997 to 2001
Lexus ES Third generation (XV20)
Overview
Also called Toyota Windom (Japan)
Production August 1996 – July 2001
Model years 1997–2001
Assembly Japan: Toyota, Aichi (Tsutsumi plant); Miyawaka, Fukuoka (Miyata plant)
Body and chassis
Class Mid-size car
Related Toyota Camry (XV20)
Powertrain
Engine 2.5 L 2MZ-FE V6 (Japan)
3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6
3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 (VVT-i)
Transmission 4-speed A541E automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length 4,831 mm (190.2 in)
Width 1,791 mm (70.5 in)
Height 1,394 mm (54.9 in)

 

Developed alongside the Toyota Camry (XV20) from 1992 to 1996, the third-generation ES (designated MCV20) premiered in September 1996 for the 1997 model year, featuring a design (styled in 1993) that was an evolution of the VCV10. The new cars featured a 30 percent 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 3.0-liter V6 capable of 150 kW (200 hp) and 290 N·m (214 lb·ft) of torque and a four-speed automatic – although a 147 kW (197 hp), 2.5-liter 2MZ-FE V6 was also offered in the equivalent Japanese-market Windom. The ES 300 could go from 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) in 7.7 seconds. The third-generation ES was also slightly longer (overall length increased by 61.0-millimetre (2.4 in)) 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' dampers according to road conditions (within 0.0025 seconds), was offered.

Production commenced in August 1996 at the Tsutsumi plant in Toyota, Aichi, supplemented in May 1997 with the Miyata plant at Miyawaka, Fukuoka.

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.

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.

Lexus ES Third generation front

In 1997 for the 1998 model year, the ES 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 pre-tensioners 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 157 kW (210 hp) in 1998 (1999 model year) due to the new 1MZ-FE engine with variable valve timing (VVT-i).

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.

There was a widespread engine oil gelling issue which could block oil from parts of the engine. After a US class action lawsuit, Toyota notified US owners that engines would be overhauled or replaced for free if damaged by the buildup of gelled oil.

1999–2001

The ES 300 received a mild facelift in 1999 for the 2000 model year 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. From 1998 through 2001 (1999 to 2001 model years), a limited "Coach Edition" was offered, and in 1999 for 2000, a "Platinum Edition" package was offered, including power moonroof, unique interior trim, and custom alloy wheels.

 Lexus ES Third generation (XV20) rear

Technical specifications

Drivetrain specifications by generation
  1989–1991 1991–1996 1996–2001 2001–2003 2003–2006 2006–2012 2010–2012 2013–Present
Engine 2.5 L V6 3.0 L V6 3.0 L V6 3.0 L V6 3.3 L V6 3.5 L V6 (ES 350) 2.4 L I4 (ES 240) 3.5 L V6
Gears 4 (AT) or 5 (MT) 4 (AT) or 5 (MT) 4 5 5 6 5 6
Power 116 kW (156 hp) 138 kW (185 hp) 150 kW (200 hp) 160 kW (210 hp) 163 kW (219 hp) 203 kW (272 hp) 123 kW (165 hp) 200 kW (268 hp) @6200 rpm
Torque 220 N·m (160 lb·ft) @4400 rpm 264 N·m (195 lb·ft) @4400 rpm 290 N·m (210 lb·ft) @4400 rpm 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @4400 rpm 330 N·m (240 lb·ft) @3600 rpm 346 N·m (255 lb·ft) @4700 rpm 224 N·m (165 lb·ft) @4000 rpm 336 N·m (248 lb·ft)@4700 rpm
 
Lexus
Return
Lexus ES 2nd gen (1992-1996) 5 / 31 Lexus ES 4th gen (2002-2006)
Send
Print

Related

motor car on you tube

Categories
Lexus
Japanese Vehicles from 2000s | Japanese Vehicles from 1990s | Vehicles launched in 1997 | Lexus ES

Lexus Models

  • Lexus GS
  • Lexus ES
  • Lexus IS
  • Lexus LS
  • Lexus LX
  • Lexus RX

Read more in this section

Lexus RX 1st Gen (1997–2003)
Lexus RX 1st Gen (1997–2003)
Read more...
Lexus IS 1st gen XE10 (1998-2005)
Lexus IS 1st gen XE10 (1998-2005)
Read more...
Lexus GX 1st Gen (2002–2009)
Lexus GX 1st Gen (2002–2009)
Read more...

  • You are here:  
  • Motor Car
  • Make and Model
  • L
  • Lexus

Back to Top

© 2021 Motor Car History

X

Right Click

No right click