Lexus ES hybrid turns up the tech for 2023

• New touchscreen infotainment
• F Sport Design trim level available
• On sale August 2022

Over the last few months, Lexus has been updating its models with new technology and now its updated ES executive saloon is set to arrive in showrooms. The 2023 Lexus ES boasts a new touchscreen infotainment system as well as a sporty new trim level to rival Audi’s S line and BMW’s M Sport.

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Pricing for the updated ES has yet to be announced, but considering the current levels of economic inflation, we expect there to be a marginal price increase over the current car’s £39,980 starting price. Lexus states the new car will go on sale in August, with first deliveries commencing in October.

When it arrives in showrooms, the new Lexus ES will renew its rivalry with other large executive saloons such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. 

Perhaps the most drastic change for the 2023 model year is the ES’ new infotainment system. This ditches the clunky touchpad seen in the current car for a much more user-friendly touchscreen. Most likely running the same software as seen in the new Lexus NX SUV, the “Hey Lexus” voice command system can adjust settings such as the climate control, all through conversational phrases; for example: “I’m cold”.

This new system also benefits from cloud-based navigation which will update maps and traffic information in real-time over the Internet. Although Lexus is yet to confirm this, the new car’s ability to stay connected may also open up the possibility for over-the-air updates for the infotainment system and car as a whole.

In order to fit this new unit, Lexus has had to reorganise the ES’ centre console; a set of cupholders take the place of the old touchpad, while the wireless charging pad has been relocated from the armrest storage box. 

Buyers can now specify their ES with the new Ammonite Sand interior colour, or in the new F Sport Design trim. While we are waiting on exact specifications, it’s likely this new model will benefit from a more aggressive body kit and will sit in between the current Premium Edition and Takumi trim levels.

Lexus is renowned for its hybrid powertrains and the ES saloon will continue to only be offered in hybrid form. The sole model available is the ES 300h; this drives the front wheels via a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, mated to a small electric motor and a CVT automatic gearbox. The total power output is 215bhp, with 0-62mph taking around nine seconds. While this is slower than rivals such as the Jaguar XF, the ES can return a frugal 54.3mpg.

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