Lexus redesigns its popular ES sedan for 2019, and debuts the new UX crossover SUV, which effectively replaces the old CT as the least expensive model in the lineup. Enform Remote brings smartwatch and Amazon Alexa skills to the lineup, and Lexus makes Apple CarPlay standard in most models. The RC Coupe also gets a minor refresh designed to extend its life.
2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport
Detailed changes for each Lexus car and SUV are shown on the pages that follow, the vehicles listed in alphabetical order.
2019 Lexus ES
Redesigned for 2019, sharing platform and powertrains with Toyota Avalon
Lexus ES is a large car but it priced close to entry-level Lexus IS, making it a value
Offered in ES 350 and ES 300h model series, the latter a fuel-efficient hybrid
302-hp V6 in ES 350, matched to new 8-speed automatic
New hybrid powertrain produces 215 hp with EPA rating of 44 mpg in combined driving
Engineers tuned the new ES for improved ride and handling traits
Available for the first time in F Sport trim
Improved Remote Touch Interface infotainment controls, standard Apple CarPlay
Standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 (LSS+ 2.0) suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance technologies with new Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist features
2019 Lexus GS
New Enform Remote technology is smartwatch- and Amazon Alexa-compatible
2019 Lexus GX
Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is now a no-charge option
Free 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect and Safety Connect services
New Enform Remote is smartwatch- and Amazon Alexa-compatible
NuLuxe leatherette used in Premium Package for Black or Sepia interior colors
2019 Lexus IS
Revised software improves throttle response, turbocharger response, and transmission shifts in IS 300 with rear-wheel drive
Triple-beam headlights are a new option
Smartwatch- and Amazon Alexa-compatible Lexus Enform is a new option
New paint color: Liquid Platinum
2019 Lexus LC
In its second year, the LC coupe gets a reprogrammed transmission, revised steering, and more range of adjustment for its adaptive suspension
Apple CarPlay is standard, along with Lexus Enform Wi-Fi and Enform Remote, including smartwatch- and Amazon Alexa-compatibility
Dynamic navigation with dynamic voice control is now standard equipment
2019 Lexus LS
Standard equipment includes LSS+ 2.0, Lexus Enform with smartwatch and Amazon Alexa skill compatibility, and Apple CarPlay
LSS+ 2.0 gains Lane Change Assist function
Luxury trim with the Mark Levinson stereo can be fitted with White leather
Executive trim now offers 20-inch wheels in a Vapor Chrome finish
New paint color: Satin Cashmere
2019 Lexus LX
New LX Inspiration Series is loaded with equipment, limited to a run of 500 vehicles
Lexus Enform Remote adds standard smartwatch- and Amazon Alexa-compatibility
Digital clock added to driver information display
Lexus logo shines on ground from side mirror puddle lamps
Versions with 5-passenger seating now available with Luxury Package, 21-inch wheels, heated wood-and-leather steering wheel
2019 Lexus NX
Refreshed for 2018, the NX see no reported changes for 2019
2019 Lexus RC
Luxury coupe gets a refresh for 2019 (RC F remains the same)
Minor styling updates front and rear, and new wheel designs
Handful of functional improvements to the interior
Standard Apple CarPlay, Lexus Enform Remote with smartwatch and Amazon Alexa compatibility
RC 300 rear-wheel-drive models get retuned powertrain for greater responsiveness
Revised steering and suspension calibration for better ride and handling
Updated Premium Package includes memory for driver’s settings, rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert
New interior accents and trim
New paint color: Blue Vortex
2019 Lexus RX
Lexus Enform Remote adds smartwatch compatibility and Amazon Alexa skill
Intuitive Parking Assist feature is available only in an option package
Noble Brown interior color requires a 2-tone dashboard treatment
2019 Lexus UX
New entry-level crossover SUV
Least expensive Lexus model, with prices starting at about $33,000
UX 200 has a 169-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive
UX 250h has a 181-hp hybrid powertrain and low-speed all-wheel drive
Both have a continuously variable transmission with 10 programmed ratios
Standard, Luxury, and F Sport trim levels
Every UX is equipped with LSS+ 2.0 and a 10-year subscription to Enform Safety Connect services
Every UX is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Enform Wi-Fi, and Enform Remote with smartwatch and Amazon Alexa compatibility
Cargo capacity is 21.7 cu.-ft. for UX 200, and 17.1 cu.-ft. for UX 250h
General Motors' (GM) vehicle-electrification strategy is accelerating, and its brands are announcing new models rapidly. Chevrolet has now set a date for the reveal of the new Blazer EV. Chevy will reveal the electric SUV on July 18 with an expected on-sale date of Spring 2023.
The Nissan Altima is a comfortable midsize car with tame driving dynamics and available all-wheel drive (AWD) for all-weather performance. Though it’s not quite as premium as rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, it offers intuitive tech and excellent fuel economy.
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