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Lexus Trademarks ES 300h

The Toyota Camry-based Lexus ES isn't exactly the best looking or most technologically advanced car in the automaker’s luxury range. The entry-level luxury front-wheel drive car has just received a slight refresh for the 2010 model year, but you just won’t notice it in a big parking lot. However, the model might receive a hybrid powerplant in the near future.

Once again, the North American Trademark offices have given us a glimpse into the future, as both Lexus USA & Lexus Canada have filed for the ES 300h trademark. Although the news is not official, this might point out to a hybrid version of Lexus’ most popular sedan. As the model is reaching the end of its life cycle, the change should actually be made to the next-generation model.

As it's the case with the rest of Lexus' hybrids, the ‘300’ numerical part of the 'ES 300h' shouldn’t hold any sort of significance in terms of engine displacement. Car and Driver, who first discovered the patent registration, speculated that we should find an improved version of the Camry Hybrid's 2.4-liter mill under the Lexus' hood. The powerplant consists of a 2AZ-FXE engine coupled with a 40 hp electric motor for a total combined output of 187 hp. But we can’t rule out the possibility that the engine will actually have 3.0-liter of displacement.

The company is making itself into a pure hybrid maker, as it has said that all of its new European offerings will be hybrids going forward. The automaker currently has the CT 200h, HS 250h, GS 450h, RX 450h and LS 600h L, but adding a sixth hybrid would further strengthen the brand's appeal to its customers.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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