The Lexus ES is rolling into the 2023 model year with some very minor updates, highlighted by the addition of the new F Sport Design and F Sport Handling specifications that will add desirable options to the popular sedan. On top of that good news, Lexus has also improved the interior and ditched that frustrating trackpad across the entire lineup.
The Lexus ES, which now starts at $42,490, has featured an F Sport trim for some time now but F Sport Design (starting at $47,075) and F Sport Handling ($48,950) trims are a bit more focused. The first centers that focus on style and tech. It adds 19-inch split-five spoke wheels, intuitive park assist, and F Sport exterior styling with sportier-looking touches to the front and rear.
Buyers can also add a 12.3-inch infotainment system, a Mark Levinson audio system, a heads-up display, a panoramic roof, triple-beam LED headlights, and a powered open/close trunk. The F Sport Handling is reserved for those who buy the ES 350 or ES 300h.
Read: 2023 Lexus ES Gets Updated In Europe With New Infotainment, F Sport Design Trim
It adds Sport+ and Custom driving modes, F Sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), a heated F Sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, a black headliner, and intuitive park assist. Similarly to the F Sport Design, buyers can then add features like the Mark Levinson sound system, the 12.3-inch infotainment system, or the heads-up display.
On top of those changes to the lineup, Lexus says that it’s improved the cabin and added a sunglasses holder and a wireless charger. In addition, it’s axed that dinky trackpad and relocated the cupholders to that location. The infotainment system can now be controlled directly through touch or voice controls.
The ES is available in 11 colors though some, such as Ultra White and Ultrasonic Blue are reserved just for F Sport trim levels. Just like last year, every ES comes with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 which includes lane tracing assist, dynamic cruise control, and other advanced driving assistance systems.
