Lexus’ rollout of its new-generation infotainment system continues, with the ES sedan confirmed to receive it.
The 2023 ES has been revealed by Lexus Europe featuring the new infotainment system. It’ll enter production in August, with European deliveries to begin in October.
Lexus Australia has yet to announce local launch timing.
The ES’ new infotainment system brings cloud-based satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a voice assistant. Android Auto still requires a wired connection.
The cloud-based navigation provides real-time road and traffic information, while the assistant – which can be summoned by saying “Hey Lexus” – can respond to informal comments like “I’m cold” in 19 different European languages.
Lexus Europe’s press release doesn’t note the size of the touchscreen, but it doesn’t appear larger than the 12.3-inch screen in the current ES.
The new system debuted on the new NX and LX and has been confirmed for the 2023 UX, due here in the second half of this year.
Additionally, there’s a revised centre console, as the removal of the trackpad has freed up some space.
The two cupholders have been repositioned, while the wireless charger now sits outside of the centre console bin.
Lexus has also replaced the two USB-A ports and single auxiliary port with a single USB-A outlet for media and a USB-C outlet for device charging.
There’s also a new interior finish, with Ammonite Sand replacing Rich Cream.
An upgraded data communication module allows Lexus’ e-Care service to review vehicle data and provide advice to drivers in the event of a technical failure. An e-Care Health Check Report also allows Lexus to monitor the vehicle 24/7, and for dealers to contact the owner to schedule servicing.
The DCM update also makes it possible for owners to use the Lexus Link smartphone app to adjust climate controls or lock and unlock their vehicle remotely.
Exterior styling is unchanged, and overseas models continue to have the option of digital camera mirrors.
With the discontinuation locally of the rear-wheel drive IS sedan, the front-wheel drive ES is now Lexus’ entry-level sedan and, with the LS, one of only two sedans in the brand’s SUV-heavy lineup.
It’s offered here in either ES250 or ES300h guise, both of which use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
The ES250 produces 152kW of power and 243Nm of torque, while the ES300h includes a hybrid system and bumps power to 160kW.
The 3.5-litre V6-powered ES350 isn’t sold here, while we also miss out on the all-wheel drive ES250.
To the end of May, Lexus sold 398 ES sedans.
While that’s well below the Tesla Model 3 (4481), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (1280) and BMW 3 Series (1261), the ES outsold the likes of the Audi A4 (203) and Volvo S60 (127).
MORE: Everything Lexus ES
