Lexus ES 350 Gets New Exterior Color for 2012

With all the attention centered around the launch of the new GS at Pebble Beach this week, Lexus is not in the mood to make any significant changes to the rest of its model line-up.

So is the case with the Lexus ES 350, which will step into the 2012 model year virtually unchanged except for the new Nebula Gray Pearl exterior, which replaces Smoky Granite Mica, and the discontinuation of Peridot Mica, the brand’s North American division announced.

Meanwhile, the model will still be powered by the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm, and coupled with a six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i).

There is also an Ultra Luxury Package available that includes a panorama glass roof, perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating, double-contrast stitching for the seats, console and door trim, power rear sunshade, passenger memory, the HID/AFS lighting system, and a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. Exclusive Liquid Graphite-finish 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels and an exclusive Black and Saddle interior are also included.

Standalone options for the 2012 Lexus ES 350 include heated and ventilated front seats, HID with AFS, and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA).  The IPA system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display.