1994 Lexus ES 300 4 Dr STD Sedan

This was the final year in which the ES 300 would be available with a manual tranmission.  The Camry-based ES was the entry level Lexus, priced far below the flagship LS 400, SC coupes, and GS 300..   For 1994, a passenger-side airbag and several convenience features were added as standard equipment.
The ES 300 was still tuned for a more road-aware ride, despite being relieved of the Lexus sport sedan classification.  The ES 300's FWD layout has received mixed reviews.  Drivers who sought road hugging performance through tight turns were left with some feelings of uncertainty, but others appreciated the added sure-footedness in slick driving conditions.  The new engine was still 3.0 liters, but the aluminum block redesign had increased horsepower from 185 to 188, and torque from 195 to 203 pound-feet.  
Drivers would miss the 5-speed manual transmission version of the ES.  In a sedan that did not provide many driving thrills, a manual shifter could be the source of some much needed elation.  Lexus seemed to be backing away from the fun-to-drive motif they had initially hoped to establish for the ES 300, settling instead for a relatively affordable sedan which was quiet, comfortable, and reliable.  It seemed to work.  The ES 300 remained the best selling Lexus until the end of the decade.