Lexus ES Facelift
Sporty Changes to the Exterior
State-of-the-Art Interior Layout
The Lexus ES’s second facelift was unveiled at China’s 2024 Guangzhou Motor Show. The current model was the first facelift model released in 2021, so this is the first new model in about three years. The new ES is based on the GA-K platform, like the 10th generation Camry, and provides a spacious interior and a stable ride typical of luxury sedans through the front-wheel drive design.
The facelift has changed both the exterior and interior. The exterior has a sporty design, while the interior has an updated interior with an expanded infotainment display. Let’s take a look at the changes in the newly revealed ES.
Z-shaped daytime running lights
A horizontal grille pattern is applied
First, the exterior design has changed, focusing on the front. In the case of the previous model, the daytime running lights were characterized by being placed in an L shape at the bottom of the headlamp, but in the new model’s case, they have been changed to a sharper Z shape to match the shape of the headlamp. In particular, they are placed at the top of the headlamp instead of the bottom, giving it a more aggressive look. Looking closely at the daytime running lights, you can see that the Z shape comprises two L shapes.
The previous trapezoidal layout was applied as is for the front radiator grille. However, the grille interior pattern was modified. The vertical pattern that emphasized the previous heaviness and luxury was replaced with a horizontal pattern with narrow intervals to enhance urban sophistication. The bumper design was slightly changed, and the side air intake shape became somewhat wider. For the rear, the tail lamp graphic was changed to be connected horizontally along the entire width.
14.3-inch display has grown
Layout without physical buttons
Inside, a 14.3-inch touchscreen display replaces the previous 12.3-inch display. Two round dial knobs and digital buttons for controlling the climate control system and media are located below the display. The physical buttons for controlling the air conditioning on the previous model have been removed, providing a more streamlined layout.
Most of the vehicle’s controls are concentrated on a larger display. In addition, the Chinese market offers new interior trim and decoration options, and enhanced voice recognition functions provide specifications tailored to Chinese consumers. Regarding the exterior and interior, it shares elements seen in recent Lexus models, such as the fifth-generation RX and fourth-generation LX.
Three powertrain configurations
The starting price is about $41,401
The facelifted ES offers three powertrain configurations in the Chinese market:
- ES 200: A 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline engine producing 170 horsepower.
- ES 260: A 2.5L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine with higher performance.
- ES 300h: A hybrid combining the 2.5L engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 215 horsepower.
All models are paired with a CVT transmission, emphasizing smooth and efficient performance.
The refreshed ES is already available for order in China. The ES 200 Premium Edition starts at 299,900 yuan (approximately $41,401), with the flagship ES 300h Executive Edition priced at 488,900 yuan (about $67,492). This facelift positions the ES to remain competitive in the luxury sedan segment while aligning with Lexus’s modern design language and technological advancements.
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