While the all-new 2019 Lexus ES was debuting at Auto China 2018 in Beijing, MotorWeek’s Stephanie Hart actually had a chance to check out the car in person at the posh Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes.

In a move that mirrors efforts with other Lexus vehicles, for the first time this redesigned ES will be available as an F SPORT performance model. 

As before, this mid-size luxury sedan is front-wheel drive, with standard power a 3.5 liter V-6.  But, this time around it delivers even more commanding acceleration with an invigorating engine sound. The new ES gains 34 more horsepower over its predecessor, coming in at 302 hp. It also has a new eight-speed direct shift automatic transmission. Also as before, there is an ES Hybrid model.

Like the Toyota Camry, the seventh generation ES moves to the corporation's new Global Architecture K-Platform that allows a longer, lower and wider design. Its lower profile and slippery aerodynamics are emphasized by a fast coupe-ish roof line. 

Project Chief Designer, Yasuo Kajino said, “The ES has always been an elegant luxury sedan. For this generation, we have added daring design elements that challenge the traditional expectations of buyers.”

Inside, this Lexus is spacious and comfortable with claimed class-leading active safety technology, including daytime bicyclist detection.

The ES is the first Lexus to offer Apple CarPlay phone functionality. It’s also Amazon Alexa enabled. That means owners who have Amazon Alexa in their home can interact with their ES before getting behind by the wheel. 

The new ES goes on sale here in September.