BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 16th May 2001
The engine produces 10 per cent more torque and 8 per cent more power than the superseded ES300 V6
The engine weighs 151kg, a saving of 30kg on the engine it supersedes
The engine mates to an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission
The ES300 MK2 is offered in two specification levels - the base S and LXS
LXS models get power front seats, leather trim, an in-dash six-stack CD player and alloy wheels
A tilt and slide glass sunroof is the only option
The body has been designed to pass all foreseeable safety standards including offset front and side impacts
Dual airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners are standard
The parking brake system has been designed to be released by the driver's left foot
The drag coefficient has been reduced from 0.32 to 0.29
The window glass filters up to 90 per cent of ultraviolet light and 73 per cent of infra-red light
The independent MacPherson strut suspension has been extensively reworked to improve traction, ride and handling
A longer wheelbase and larger cabin help improve rear legroom by 12mm and provide 13mm more front headroom and a wider rear seat
The seven-speaker audio system includes a large woofer on the rear parcel shelf
The car's chassis is stronger and stiffer but 25kg lighter than the old model
The ES300 was always quiet and Toyota claims this is even more refined. NVH measures include hair felt on the door trims and C- pillar garnishes