A 2022 update gave the Lexus ES a long-awaited touchscreen along with improved safety features. For 2023, the brand’s bestselling sedan returns with a new multimedia system, redesigned center console and updated F Sport models. These changes come with a larger price tag for each of the three powertrain variants: the six-cylinder 350, four-cylinder 250 and 300h four-cylinder hybrid.
Related: 2022 Lexus ES 350 Review: Now More Reasons to Buy
What’s New?
The 2023 ES uses the latest version of the Lexus Interface multimedia system, featuring a higher resolution touchscreen and antiglare technology, as well as standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition to its welcomed touchscreen functionality, the system comes with an advanced voice assistant that makes voice controls more intuitive, says Lexus. Additionally, the ES is eligible for Lexus’ new 10-year trial period for the brand’s connected services plans.
The interior’s other updates include new trim options and a redesigned center console. Ash bamboo trim is added to previously available open-pore brown walnut and open-pore black options, and a new Macadamia interior color replaces Rich Cream. The center console also is updated with a new sunglass holder and cupholders, plus wireless charging.
F Sport Selections
While the F Sport trim isn’t new to the ES, Lexus has expanded the options for 2023. Previously, all three powertrain variants offered an F Sport model with unique exterior and interior styling elements for a sportier look; however, only the 350 came with an available F Sport Dynamic Handling Package for performance-oriented distinctions. Now, Lexus has split up its F Sport offerings into two separate trims: F Sport Design and F Sport Handling.
The F Sport Design can be had with all powertrain options. Mainly an appearance package with some interior upgrades, the F Sport Design adds 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels; a unique front bumper, grille surround and rear spoiler; and standard collision warning. Shoppers looking for sportier performance will find it in the F Sport Handling variant that replaces the Dynamic Handling Package. In addition to the visual elements of the F Sport Design, the F Sport Handling offers standard Sport Plus and Custom drive modes as well as an F Sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension. It can now be found on the 350 and 300h.
In addition to the exterior cues outlined above, F Sport models add interior upgrades like a premium Mark Levinson sound system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a head-up display, panoramic roof, and power open and close trunk with a kick sensor.
Powertrain Trio
The three available powertrains for the ES carry over from 2022. The ES 250 is powered by a 203-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive; the ES 350 gets a 302-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic that only comes with front-wheel drive; and the ES 300h pairs a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a continuously variable automatic for a combined 215 hp and FWD exclusively.
Tech and Safety
The new multimedia system in the ES is accessed through a standard 8-inch touchscreen or an available 12.3-inch display. The Lexus Safety System Plus 2.5 suite is once again standard and includes advanced driver-assist features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. In the 2022 update, the system received camera and radar enhancements, new Intersection Turning Assist and Emergency Steering Assist features plus improved adaptive cruise control.
Trims and Pricing
The 2023 Lexus ES is on sale now. Full pricing for each variant is as follows:
ES 350
- Base: $42,490
- Luxury: $47,660
- F Sport Design: $47,075
- F Sport Handling: $48,950
- Ultra Luxury: $51,280
ES 250
- Base: $42,490
- Luxury: $47,660
- F Sport Design: $47,075
- Ultra Luxury: $51,280
ES 300h
- Base: $43,690
- Luxury: $48,860
- F Sport Design: $48,075
- F Sport Handling: $49,985
- Ultra Luxury: $52,480
The starting price for the gas-only 350 and 250 models climbs $615 from 2022, while the 300h hybrid starts at $43,690 and sees a $715 price bump. Going with an F Sport Design trim for the 250, 350 and 300h adds $4,585, $5,170 and $4,385 to each model’s starting price. The performance features of the F Sport Handling models tack on $6,460 to the 350 and $6,295 to the 300h.
More From Cars.com:
- 2022 Lexus ES 350: 6 Things We Like (and 4 Not So Much)
- 2021 Lexus ES 250 AWD Review: A Peculiar but Needed Lexus ES
- 2021 Lexus ES Offers AWD, Smaller Engine and Black Line Special Edition
- What’s New With Lexus for 2022?
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