1992 Lexus ES 300 4 Dr STD Sedan

In 1992, the addition of a larger engine transformed the ES 250 into the ES 300. Lexus had a long road ahead in the attempt to make the ES 300 into its own unique vehicle.   The exterior appearance did not change, but the new ES 300 gained about 200 pounds in curb weight, now at 3,362.  Driver-side airbag and ABS were now standard for 1992.
The larger 3.0 liter V-6 produced 185 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.  This 29 horse increase offered only a marginal performance boost. The 0-60 time was down to 8.6 seconds, and the quarter mile was now turned in 16.6 seconds.  Every ES was still front wheel drive.  Despite some additional bulk and engine power, fuel efficiency remained at 19/25 mpg for the manual transmission.
This new 3.0 liter V-6 would power the ES for eleven more years.  While it was considerably more powerful than the previous Camry engine, it could not solely redefine the ES as a performance sedan.  Consequently, Lexus was about to introduce the new GS series for 1993, to provide buyers with a true sporting option.  For the remainder of the decade the ES would be relegated to the entry level tier of the family, but this classification would help it become the top selling Lexus of all time.