Just a thought...

I bought a 2014 ES (new in July 2014) and the grill then gave me pause...but I realized it wasn't that of the beaten path and didn't stop me from getting the car. Nowadays the 2013-2015 front end looks normal (I do not think it looks blah at al). Anyway, when 2016 model came out, there was much controversy over the grill. Lexus admits to being more "aggressive" to attract younger buyers. Well, I'm not convinced that has panned out well. [Sidebar: I don't see how younger buyers, with less cash, can buy "more" Lexus's?]

This web page has sales figures for autos: http://www.goodcarbadcar.net/2011/01...-sales-figures

I find it interesting that 2013-2014 were good years, 2015 started to fall--but that happens after a few years of a model. Then the 2016 refresh with the new grill, and the numbers keep going down...significantly. 2013-2014 sold 72,000 cars; last year was only 48,000 cars. The new 2019 in December didn't seem to wow anyone. I'm curious how well the 2019 ES F-Sport will do, if it is enough to please the sport sedan folks that want a mid-range Lexus.

So...is the grill to blame? The RX is increasing in sales...perhaps people are buying more RX than ES? They say folks aren't buying sedans anymore. Or is it just sedans goofy stying throwing folks off the days? Look to the popular Honda Accord that is now a hatchback style...gag!

So...is it the ES's polarizing grill? Or just folks like to spend lots of money on SUVs and the sedan is dying? Hmmm....

 

I was 23 when I bought the 2015 es i have. I love the grill and even the new ones too. But I agree. Most people my age cant afford something like that. But I think it's more of the SUV popularity soaring and less about the styling. Lexus needs to rid itself of the "old people" stigma its had. Young people go for beamers and benz's

 

More of the population is certainly buying crossovers than sedans. However, I'd argue that the decrease in sales you note aren't because of the grill but the fact that the generation is aging. Less people buy the car when it's been out for several years; even post mid-cycle refresh as it wasn't a huge re-design.

 

 

There is a general decrease in sedan sales. Across the board. Buyers are migrating to SUV's (small and midsize SUV's particularly). Generally for the sportiness of it and easier way of getting into getting off. And a larger payload.

 

Totally agree. I have heard lots of friends and colleagues whining that their next vehicle(s) will definitely be a SUV....presently my wife is 'eyeing' into getting a RX. Thanks

 

It's not the Grill, it's the segment, the sedan market is wayyy down.

https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/20...ry-and-accord/

 

I think the grill plays a roll also....Me and my wife was at the Lexus dealer on Saturday. I politely ask her why don't she trade in her MB E350 for a Lexus ES or RX.
She polite said No... the grill is ugly. She rather purchase a Beemer or Maxima.

 

Showing off my new car to a buddy, he asked "where is the bumper?". I replied "uhhh. There isn't one...". So, in my opinion, the grill could be a significant issue for buyers to consider...

 

the grill is the reason i was shopping for a 2013-2015 gs instead of the hideous spaceship for a retarded 9 year old kid looking front grill on the 2016+.

it just looks chessy and cheap, like an aftermarket body kit named "kombat, ninja, fatality, etc".

the new ES also falls into that category. way too much curves, it looks like atuner car of some sorts. and that's a no-no in this segment.

in turn, look at mercedes C/E, bmw 5, audi 4/5 designs. Absolutelly stunning. This is what you look for in the $50k+ segment, along with the badge of course

 

Sorry, but I find the statement quoted above to be inappropriate and offensive.

 

I believe that most members of this forum, when looking to buy a new car, look far beyond the front grill. speaking for myself I am concerned with quality of build, reliability and dependability, and frequency of repair. Most of the models you espouse such as the Benz, Audi, and BMW, are lacking in this department. OTOH, Lexus is at the top, or close to the top, for dependability and frequency of owner repairs. So judging the look of a redesigned grill whether it be a 2016 or a 2019 is just one small consideration in the purchase of a $50k + car.
I agree that the grill on the 2019 is extreme but taking all other considerations into view I think that the car is outstanding.

 

and i'm sorry you find it inappropriate and offensive, it wasn't meant to offend anyone in particular.

however, it is how i feel about the subject matter. You may agree or disagree, and that is fine. Either way, i respect your opinion, i hope you do the same for mine.

 

I don't quarrel one bit with your right to have an opinion about the grille. In fact, I dislike the grille on the 2016-2018 ES (and that of the 2019 ES even more), and I have had a strong preference for the 2013-2015 ES grille.

It should not require further explanation about what, with your choice of words, I find to be inappropriate and offensive. There should be no place on the CL boards or anywhere else for use of language that demeans any group of people, including those with disabilities.

 

it could have also been handled via PM in a more civilized manner, though maybe my actions did not deserve such courtesy.

Listen, i've had a long day at the office today. i'm going home and wish you all a wonderful day.