Lexus on Monday unveiled an updated ES sedan at Auto Shanghai 2021.
The ES is related to the Toyota Camry, and first arrived in its current generation as a 2019 model. An all-wheel-drive option was then added for 2021.
The updated ES reaches the United States in the fall as a 2022 model, and Lexus is saving detailed specifications for our market until closer to the sales launch. We already know some of the key updates that are planned, however.
The exterior design is mostly the same, though there are new LED headlights and a new pattern for the grille. There are also new wheel designs ranging up to 19 inches in diameter, plus new paint options and the availability of the F Sport styling pack on the ES hybrid.
Inside, the dash has been revised to feature a more streamlined design. The infotainment screen (8.0 inches standard and 12.3 inches available) has also been moved forward and now features touch capability. It is joined by touch surface in the center console.
Lexus engineers also worked on the dynamics of the updated ES. For instance, there's a new suspension brace at the rear to improve torsional rigidity. The braking system has also been updated to improve pedal feel. We're told the updated system provides more linear feedback and response.
2022 Lexus ES
No changes were made to the powertrains. The base ES 250 features a 203-hp 2.5-liter inline-4. Above this is the ES 350 with a 302-hp 3.5-liter V-6, and at the top of the range is the ES 300h with a 2.5-liter inline-4-based hybrid setup good for 215 hp. Front-wheel drive is standard, with only the ES 250 available with all-wheel drive.
With the GS dropped from the Lexus lineup at the end of 2020, the ES is now the brand's sole representative in the mid-size sedan segment. It shouldn't come as a surprise that the dynamically superior GS was the model Lexus dropped. It only managed about 2,560 sales in the U.S. last year. Compare that with the ES which managed 43,292 sales in the same period.
You'll find our full coverage on the Shanghai auto show at our dedicated hub. And for more on the Lexus ES, read the in-depth reviews at The Car Connection.
