Lexus ES gets digital wing mirrors - but only as a pricey extra

By dpa | 16 April 2020


BERLIN: Side-view mirrors are steadily disappearing from cars, as the digital alternative enters mass production. The latest example: The Lexus ES, where a new digital mirror option is ditching the old-school analogue mirrors for a cleaner look and smarter visuals.

This comes with a steep surcharge, however, and you can expect to pay something in the range of US$2,000 (RM8,703) for the privilege of mirror-less sides.

The ES, the latest car to get the digital mirror makeover after the Audi e-tron, faces off rivals like the Mercedes E-Class and the Audi A6.

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The side mirror package includes two video cameras that peek out of the doors like antannae, sending a live feed to two small screens mounted on the inside of the A-pillar.

In addition to the futuristic appearance and lower air resistance of a mirror-less design, the new tech is also supposed to provide a safety advantage, according to Lexus.

This is because the digital mirrors won't need adjusting and because they are less affected by wet or dark conditions. They can also automatically adjust themselves to your driving conditions and display warnings and tips when manoeuvring.

The Toyota-owned company says the rest of the ES's equipment remains unchanged, as well as the engine options. The saloon is powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a hybrid module. With 218hp, it can reach a top speed of 18kph. Fuel consumption is put at 4.7 litres and CO2 emissions at 106 g/km.

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