1997-2001 Lexus ES 300: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

For 1997, Toyota's luxury division redesigned its least expensive--and most popular--model. As before, the basic structure and mechanical components were shared with the Toyota Camry. Wheelbase grew by 2 inches, yielding an extra 1.3 inches of leg room in the back seat. Although the body measured 2.4 inches longer, weight actually dropped a bit. The "near-luxury" Lexus sedan rode a front-drive platform and held a 3.0-liter dual-overhead-cam V6 engine, which developed 12 more horsepower than before (now 200). Four-speed automatic was again the only transmission. Dual airbags were standard. A new 3-point lap/shoulder belt replaced the former lap belt for the center rear position. Antilock braking was standard, and traction control joined the option list. A newly optional "semiactive" suspension was designed to improve ride comfort and reduce body lean in curves and turns.