The Lexus ES is getting an extensive update for the 2022 model year.
On the exterior, all non-F Sport models will get a new grille pattern. The new mesh pattern emphasises the vehicle's elegant design with a series of concentric 'L' shapes that radiate from the front Lexus emblem, all finished in a new Graphite paint. The new Lexus ES also gets redesigned standard bi-LED headlamps with dynamic auto-levelling.
A larger 18-inch wheel, which is available on Base and Luxury trims, has also received an update, and features a split-10-spoke design with two-tone Black and machined finish for a clean and sophisticated look.
An additional 18-inch five-spoke alloy noise reduction wheel is available with the Luxury and Ultra Luxury trims. ES F Sport models meanwhile get exclusive 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels with a new Black finish that accentuates the model's sporty exterior.
On the performance front, the 2022 ES builds gets a new rear suspension member brace to further enhance torsional rigidity, handling stability, and ride comfort.
The brake system of the car has also received updates on both gas and hybrid models. The brake pedal shape has been enlarged on all ES models to improve foot stability and confidence when the pedal is depressed. On ES gas models, the vacuum brake system master cylinder and booster have also been optimised to provide a more linear brake pedal feeling and response. The regenerative and hydraulic brake control characteristics of the Electronically Controlled Brake System on ES hybrid models have also been optimised to improve pedal feeling when the brake pedal is released.
The 2022 Lexus ES also continues the brand's commitment to safety with an upgrade to Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 (LSS+ 2.5) as standard equipment on all trim levels.
The system's Pre-Collision System (PCS), which includes Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection and Bicyclist Detection, now features an enhancement to the lens camera and millimeter-wave radar elements to expand the response range.
LSS+ 2.5 also now gets Intersection Turning Assist, which, at intersections, has the capability under certain conditions to recognise an oncoming vehicle when performing a left-hand turn, or a pedestrian when performing left and right-hand turns, and is designed to activate typical PCS functions if needed. Additional new PCS functions include Emergency Steering Assist, which is designed to enhance vehicle stability and help prevent lane departure as cued by the driver during an emergency evasive steering manoeuvre.
For 2022, the ES F Sport will offer luxury sedan enthusiasts more choice with a revised grade strategy that separates style and performance enhancements. The ES250 AWD and ES350 will continue to be offered in F SPORT trim.
However, 2022 adds a new ES300h F Sport variant available in select regions. These models will focus on exterior and interior styling with features like exclusive F Sport badging, a mesh grille with a dark surround, a trunk lid spoiler, unique 19-inch wheels with new black finish, steering wheel, front seats, pedals, shift lever and knob, and gauges with a removable display ring.
For buyers looking for additional performance, the ES350 F Sport will offer an all new Dynamic Handling Package (DHP) that includes Sport+ and Custom Drive modes, Intuitive Parking Assist, and Adaptive Variable Suspension.
The AVS system on ES350 F Sport with DHP is capable of 650 levels of adjustment to deliver optimal ride quality and precise control. Adjustments are based on information from sensors that measure both linear and vertical g loads, vehicle speed, steering angle, yaw rate and master cylinder pressure in addition to information from the engine control computer and skid control computer.
