2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Lexus ES

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This model was priced similarly to the ES 350, which came with a 3.5-litre V6 and front-wheel drive (FWD). Both models offered standard, upgraded, and F Sport packages. Additionally, the ES 300h hybrid variant was available, offering improved fuel efficiency at a premium. The 2021 model also introduced a limited-production Black Line Edition for the ES 350, featuring unique styling elements. The ES's design was characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek, artful details, with the F Sport trim adding sporty enhancements. The interior, particularly in the Black Line Edition, featured a striking black and white contrast, emphasizing the car's luxurious appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus ES continued to build on its legacy, maintaining its position as a staple in the Lexus lineup. The ES was built on the Global Architecture-K (GA-K) platform, shared with models like the Lexus RX and Toyota Camry. The 2022 model retained its elegant proportions and sleek roofline, with the prominent spindle grille and assertive headlamp shapes remaining a matter of taste. The interior featured a layered dashboard with precise assembly, though the asymmetrical design was somewhat jumbled. The F Sport package added bold two-tone leather seating, enhancing the sporty feel. Despite its attractive design, the 2022 ES faced the challenge of appealing to a younger demographic while retaining its loyal customer base.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the front wheels, with driving modes including Normal, Eco, and Sport. The adaptive damping suspension added Sport+ and Custom modes, enhancing the driving experience. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Black Line Edition offered a dynamic driving experience, with firm ride quality and flat cornering stance, though it was not an outright sports sedan.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds. The ES 350 retained the 3.5-litre V6, producing 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, matching the 2021 model's acceleration time. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor, achieving a net 215 hp and excelling in fuel efficiency. The ES 250 AWD provided standard AWD, but its performance was less engaging compared to the ES 350's V6, which offered a more spirited drive.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather provided excellent comfort, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample foot and legroom. The trunk offered 394 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free power trunk available. Storage was plentiful, though the configuration was somewhat unconventional, with nooks and crannies rather than large bins.

The 2022 Lexus ES continued to offer practical advantages over SUVs, with a generous 394 litres of cargo space and a pass-through for long items. The sedan's lower centre of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling and fuel economy. Inside, the ES featured heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats, with a moonroof standard and a panoramic sunroof available. Storage options included big bottle pockets and a spacious glove compartment, while the dashboard layout prioritized functionality.

The 2021 Lexus ES faced challenges with its touchpad interface, requiring drivers to focus on the screen while navigating. However, the climate and stereo controls were separate, with a convenient volume and tuning knob. The dynamic voice command technology was effective, allowing drivers to bypass the touchpad. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display was visually appealing, though not a touchscreen. The ES included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

In 2022, the Lexus ES featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen available on upper trims. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system and navigation were also offered. The touchpad interface remained, though it was an improvement over the previous setup. A 10-inch head-up display was available, enhancing safety by displaying critical information in the driver's line of sight. The ES also offered a Panoramic View Monitor and Intuitive Parking Assist for added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included advanced driving assistance systems such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims except the base. The ES received top safety ratings, with the IIHS awarding it a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA giving it a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Lexus ES continued to excel in safety, with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 offering enhanced features like pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. The ES included 10 airbags and standard blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS and NHTSA both awarded the 2022 ES their highest safety ratings, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.