Lexus is updating its 2016 ES sedan with a new look and more features under the skin.
The first thing you’ll notice is the new front fascia – there’s now a more aggressive take on Lexus’ so-called “spindle” grille, as well as sharper LED headlights, restyled fog lights and more chrome trim. New LED tail lights, reshaped exhaust tips, and new wheels and colours round out the visual tweaks. Inside, the ES sees new finishes and leather colours, as well as goodies like a panoramic sunroof and Lexus’ Mark Levinson sound system are available regardless of trim level.
The 2016 Lexus ES sedan.
Handout, Lexus
First introduced on the 2016 Lexus RX, the latest ES now features Lexus’ Safety System+ package. This includes pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control systems at a lower price – the package costs $650 on the RX in the U.S., so expect similar pricing on the ES. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems the still optional.
Under the hood, the Lexus ES carries on with the company’s 3.5-litre V6, rated at 268 horsepower and paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The ES 300h swaps out the 3.5L V6 in favour of a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, pushing it to the 40-mpg mark.
Official pricing hasn’t been announced just yet, but the 2015 model starts at $42,000. Don’t expect 2016 pricing to stray too much.
The 2016 Lexus ES sedan.
Handout, Lexus
