In the past, I've glowingly compared the entry-level Lexus sedan to a little black dress. That is, a versatile, elegant workhorse that can take you from client meetings to a cocktail party with ease.
So I wasn't surprised when a Lexus executive took me aside at the March launch of the redesigned, fifth-generation 2007 Lexus ES 350 and asked if I could see "the kimono" outline in the instrument panel.
The instrument panel was created by one of Toyota's female designers and she apparently worked hard to achieve a crisscross effect in the cabin that mimics the folds in a traditional Japanese robe. The idea, I'm told, is to avoid the boring, symmetrical look of the instrument panels found in Buicks and Hyundai sedans.
AUTO SPIES PERSPECTIVE: We were at the same event and we'll just say two words about her review...SHE'S NUTS! The new ES350 is extremely handsome and will end up setting sales records for Lexus. For pure luxury oriented buyers in the 35k range, there is no better total solution.
Full review here