Lexus ES I (V20) photos

The first-generation Lexus ES sedan with the factory index V20 debuted in January 1989 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit alongside the flagship LS 400. Built on the front-wheel-drive Toyota Camry V20 platform, the vehicle was produced exclusively as a four-door hardtop sedan featuring frameless side door glass. The exterior design distinguished itself through a chrome-trimmed front grille, model-specific lighting clusters, and custom alloy wheels. The cabin incorporated enhanced sound insulation, genuine California walnut wood trim, leather upholstery, and a premium Pioneer audio system, establishing new comfort benchmarks.

Under the hood, the ES 250 was powered solely by a 2.5-liter 2VZ-FE 24-valve V6 gasoline engine delivering 156 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed ECT-E electronically controlled automatic transmission. The chassis featured four-wheel independent suspension with McPherson struts and power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes. Over its three-year production run, approximately 45,000 units were sold, successfully establishing Lexus in the mid-size executive luxury segment.