If they want to keep the next ES FWD, I think they should probably save the money & keep using the Camry platform . . .

 

I wonder why they would take the ES off the Camry platform? I mean it makes money, it sells, people love how it has evolved.

If this is indeed true, Lexus is indeed serious about separating from Toyota!

 

I think that is it. Toyota seems to be dead serious about separating Lexus from Toyota, and to try and give the perception to Lexus that it is very exclusive. IMO, I believe that's a good thing in some ways, bad in others. Lexus vehicles will undoubtedly become more expensive, but the brand will be considered "true" luxury among the European brands. It will also mean Lexus cars will have a lot of interesting luxury features and options that won't be seen on Toyota models.

Either way, we'll see what happens.

 

I think the separation is good, to finally eliminate the 'overpriced Camry' epithet. That said, they need to solve the GS-ES conundrum.

 

They need to put A LOT of effort into differentiating the IS-GS, GS-LS, and ES-GS.

The GS needs to be noticeably bigger than the IS mainly in interior room, and also not get too close to the LS in size. The IS is differentiated well enough from the ES, although the IS250 needs and engine upgrade. The GS apart from getting bigger, needs a more striking design, and needs to become more sportier, as well as get a better interior than the IS.

I think this can all be done, as long as Lexus stays focused and puts in the hard work.

 

They need to do an LS-type focused development project on the GS. Actually the timing may be right with the next generation; the LS moving upmarket and towards an L model give the GS even more room to get bigger, even near the LS 460.

The GS has huge potential, but it's had a difficult history.

 

I don't get the concern over the M. 2700 in one month is one of its strongest months ever. And that's over 600 more than the GS variants. The M is doing fine.

 

after trailing for several months


I doubt ES will change - and sales numbers prove it. Stupid roumors, as always.

 

Good post. Agreed except I would hope the GS doesn't get much bigger, just more efficient in interior space.

 

I like the idea that GS sales will remain as they are... this will keep my GS more unique than other Lexus, say IS or RX…

 

^^^
Not ubiquitous is good for exclusivity, it's true. I see ES 350s all the time, but when it's a GS that's more unique.

 

In all honestly I think Lexus should do away with ES alltogether, and make the GS less sporty but more luxurious (ala E class).

 

in fact, Lexus should stop producing cars and concentrate their effors on luxury jets and custom choppers.

 

Clearly Lexus had their hands full with all these new cars the last few years and concepts. Maybe Mercedes is the only one close to so many new models?
LF-A concept I and II
LF-S concept
LF-C concept
New GS 300, 430, 350 and 450h (worlds first hybrid RWD car)
New ES 350
RX 400h now RX 350 are new
IS 250, 350 and now IS-F
New LS 460 and LS 600h L
New LX 570

I probably missed something...

The GS also was the first with VDIM, which Lexus learned quickly needed a switch off button, which was added in 2007. The GS also doesn't have a I-pod connector which is gaining huge momentum now. The GS is the first Lexus with an active sway bar but THEY ARE NOT ADVERTISING IT nor insisting on sending a GS with it. The GS also remained almost identical in dimensions, but the competiton is a lot larger, with larger interiors. Funny but the GS interior is the most sporting but the steering wheel is not as communicative as the competition.

I've never felt a modded Lexus or now the stock ones were sloppy and I am positive I could meet or beat the competiton in it. The damn steering, just does not communicate where you are on the road. Its the typical Lexus feel so many people love every year, but for the enthusiast, it lacks feel.

I am sure Lexus is hard at work to make the next gen GS no freaking joke ,as not only the Germans but Infiniti offers better cars in many peoples eyes.