The most popular sedan in the Lexus line up the ES gets updated for 2023 with a new interior element.
The changes come at a time when market for sporty luxury cars is shrinking since the ES 250’s competitors include the BMW 3 Series, Volvo S60, Audi A4, Infiniti Q50 GT and Mercedes Benz C-Class, which not long ago were considered the crown jewels of the respective product lines
For 2023, the ES line embraces continuous improvement with the introduction of the new state-of-the-art Lexus Interface multimedia system, with a higher-resolution touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface multimedia system and connected services present a re-envisioned user experience for ES guests.
New interior displays included
With a standard 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch touchscreen display, the system features the latest display with higher resolution and smartphone-like, anti-glare technology. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls, according to Lexus.
Lexus Interface also incorporates a voice assistant available through voice activation or a button on the steering wheel. Simple phrases like “Hey Lexus” awaken the system for commands.
The system was designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise-cancellation, seat detection and speaker location capabilities, the system enables a voice-first approach providing front-seat occupants an expanded and interactive experience to access media, phone and vehicle settings, such as climate control, the brand said in its announcement.
The ES family is also expanding this year with the introduction of F Sport Design and Handling, complete with styling and performance upgrades, making the 2023 Lexus ES the most engaging ES ever with three available powerful engines, all-wheel drive capability and multiple F Sport models.
With the introduction of the F Sport on the seventh-generation Lexus ES, it also seeking to appeal to a younger and more diverse buyer who wants more aggressive styling and unmatched performance perfected on the track. For 2023, F Sport Design is offered on all three powertrains — ES 250 AWD, ES 350 and ES 300h.
F Sport role expanded for ES
Based on the ES features with the Premium Package, the F Sport Design adds F Sport 19-inch, split-five-spoke alloy wheels with Gloss Black finish and F Sport exterior styling, including unique front bumper, grille surround and rear spoiler.
For 2023, Intuitive Park Assist comes standard. Available features include, a Mark Levinson sound system, Lexus Interface with the 12.3-inch screen, a Head-Up-display, power rear sunshade, the panorama roof, triple beam LED headlamps and power open/close trunk with kick sensor on F Sport Design.
While 2023 Lexus ES exterior is a carryover from 2022, but inside, occupants will be met with a redesigned center console complete with a new sunglass holder, new cup holder location and available wireless charger.
Safety Connect and Service Connect, a suite of available services that help drivers stay secure while on the road, are now available with up to a 10-year subscription.
Drive Connect trial or subscription, drivers and passengers have access to Cloud Navigation, Destination Assist and the Intelligent Assistant features. The Cloud Navigation offered through Drive Connect allows for real-time traffic and routing information and Points of Interest.
Google POI data is integrated into ES models, providing access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate the next destination. Intelligent Assistant also expands upon the standard Voice Assistant capabilities. Convenience features such as weather and location-based notifications are accessible, including address and POI search with navigation through Intelligent Assistant.For 2023, pricing starts at $42,490 for both the ES 350 and ES 250 AWD. The ES 300h begins at $43,690, and the first-ever ES F Sport Handling exclusive to ES 350 and ES 300h will be available at showroom floors nationwide with a starting MSRP of $48,950 and $49,985, respectively.
