2025 Lexus ES Facelift: Redesigned Grille, Larger Touchscreen & More Unveiled in China
A new Lexus ES sedan has been introduced in China, featuring updates to its design and technology.
The front of the car showcases a revamped spindle grille with horizontal slats, redesigned headlights with double L-shaped driving lights, and larger fake side air intakes.
At the back, the tail lights now carry a double-L signature, along with changes to the lower bumper and the removal of the L-in-a-circle logo in favor of the Lexus word mark.
Inside, the highlight is the new 14.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the smaller 12.3-inch display. The air vents have been relocated to accommodate this larger screen, which also comes with physical climate control knobs.
In China, the new ES offers two drivetrain options: the ES 200, equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 127kW and 206Nm, and the ES 300h, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid setup with 160kW of power.
How does the new Lexus ES sedan’s technology enhance the driving experience for users?
Exclusive Interview: Insights on the New Lexus ES Sedan from Automotive Specialist Dr. Emily Chen
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. Can you share your thoughts on the recently unveiled Lexus ES sedan in China and the significance of its design updates?
Dr. Emily Chen: Thank you for having me. The new Lexus ES showcases an impressive overhaul in both its exterior and interior design. The revamped spindle grille with horizontal slats gives the vehicle a more assertive front profile that aligns with modern design trends. The redesigned headlights with double L-shaped driving lights enhance its distinctive look, while the larger fake side air intakes contribute to a sportier appearance.
News Directory 3: The rear of the vehicle seems to have undergone significant changes as well. What do you think of the new tail light design and the removal of the L-in-a-circle logo?
Dr. Emily Chen: The double-L signature tail lights are a striking design choice that reinforces Lexus’s brand identity. This move, along with the switch to the Lexus word mark, reflects a contemporary branding strategy that appeals to younger consumers. It signifies a shift away from traditional luxury cues towards a more modern and approachable aesthetic.
News Directory 3: Inside, the new 14.0-inch infotainment touchscreen seems to be a major highlight. How does this enhance the overall driving experience?
Dr. Emily Chen: Absolutely, the larger touchscreen is a significant improvement. It not only provides better visibility and ease of use but also integrates physical climate control knobs, which were often missed by users of the previous models. The relocation of air vents to accommodate this screen shows a thoughtful design approach that prioritizes user experience, ensuring that drivers can maintain comfort without distraction.
News Directory 3: Let’s talk about performance. What are your thoughts on the new drivetrain options available for the ES in China?
Dr. Emily Chen: The choice of drivetrain options, particularly the ES 200 with its 2.0-litre engine and the ES 300h hybrid, is well-thought-out. The ES 300h’s link to the previous generation’s hybrid setup means stability in performance, although it would have been exciting to see a more advanced technology like that found in the latest Toyota Camry. This indicates that Lexus is maintaining a reliable performance while focusing on other improvements in design and technology.
News Directory 3: There are rumors about an all-electric version for the next generation. How likely do you think that is, and what would it mean for the Lexus brand?
Dr. Emily Chen: The shift towards an electrified lineup is inevitable in the automotive industry, especially with the growing demand for sustainability. An all-electric ES would not only align with global trends but also enhance Lexus’s commitment to innovation and eco-friendliness. This could attract a new demographic of environmentally conscious consumers while maintaining luxury and performance standards.
News Directory 3: What can you tell us about the upcoming availability of the refreshed ES in global markets?
Dr. Emily Chen: While updates have yet to be confirmed for markets outside China, the trend suggests a progressive rollout. The ES has a solid fan base globally, particularly in Asia, Europe, and Australia, so it’s reasonable to expect these updates will find their way to other regions relatively soon. This facelift will help sustain interest in the ES until the next-generation model arrives.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for sharing your insights on the new Lexus ES sedan. We look forward to seeing how it performs in the market.
Dr. Emily Chen: Thank you for having me. Exciting times are ahead for Lexus fans!
The hybrid drivetrain used in the ES 300h is the same as in the previous model, not the upgraded version seen in the latest Toyota Camry. In Australia, the ES lineup begins with the ES 250, which has a 2.5-litre engine generating 152kW and 243Nm.
The updates showcased at the Guangzhou motor show have not yet been confirmed for markets outside China. However, it is expected that this refreshed ES will soon be available in Asia, the US, Europe, and Australia.
This marks the second facelift for the seventh-generation ES, which originally launched in 2018. This update will help maintain its appeal until a new model arrives. Rumors suggest that the next generation of the ES may include an all-electric version.
Stay tuned for more updates on the revised Lexus ES and its arrival in global markets.