Lexus ES 2023: more wireless connectivity comes to the luxury sedan

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Wireless convenience seems to be the theme with the latest minor update that has come to the Lexus ES. 

Following in the footsteps of the mid-year 2021 ES update where Lexus introduced the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the brand has added to its functionality. 

Cloud-based connectivity in regards to weather, live traffic and parking are now integrated into the system.

Alongside this screen, the new update centres around the ‘Lexus Connected’ smartphone app that allows owners to access and communicate with the vehicle remotely.

Data such as odometer and fuel level readings, remaining range and the vehicle’s last known location are all available via the connected smartphone app. 

Owners can even lock and unlock the boot and doors as well as activate the horn remotely, if that’s something that tickles their fancy. 

The addition of wireless Apple CarPlay is also quite a big deal, but those using Android Auto will have to settle for a standard wired connection.

Wireless charging is now standard across the range in the Lexus ES, as is a USB-C charging port located beside the transmission selector. 

In regards to pricing, the entry-level ES 250 Luxury gets dropped to $62,140 from $62,620, while the rest of the range has undergone slight increases. Opting for an enhancement pack adds $8,260 to the price throughout the range.

As with the nature of this minor update, no changes have been made to the ES’ powertrain options across the board.

The same 2.5-litre petrol engine remains in the ES 250, making 152kW/243Nm. This is sent to the front wheels exclusively through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The ES300h keeps the 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine that’s shared with the RAV4 Hybrid, which makes 160kW. It also sends power to the front wheels, but it uses an E-CVT. 

Lexus ES 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• ES 250 Luxury: $62,140
• ES 250 F Sport: $71,380
• ES 300h Luxury: $64,540
• ES 300h F Sport: $73,920
• ES 300h Sports Luxury: $79,170