Lexus has given the ES sedan a subtle makeover for the 2016 model year
Lexus' ES sedan gets a mild facelift for the 2016 model year in North America, with subtle exterior and interior changes as well as updated equipment.
Styling-wise, the 2016 Lexus ES gets a modified front end with a new spindle grille, refreshed LED headlights (standard across the range) and a redesigned front fascia with new fog lamps. At the rear, the ES features L-themed taillights and a restyled bumper with new chrome-tipped rectangular exhausts on the ES 350. Other design changes include new optional 17-inch alloy wheels and four new exterior colors: Autumn Shimmer, Nightfall Mica, Caviar and Eminent White Pearl.
Inside, the changes are even more subtle and are limited to the redesigned steering wheel, new color combinations and new trims including Linear Dark Mocha, Illustrious Piano Black and Bamboo with a matte finish. Finally, a new shift knob with a leather boot echoes the shifter design in the Lexus IS.
Lexus has also improved connectivity features for the 2016 ES, with the sedan benefitting from an expanded Lexus Enform family of information and connectivity services. In addition, the sedan is available with the Lexus Safety System+ package consisting of Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
As for the engine lineup, U.S. customers will be offered the same choices as before. The 2016 Lexus ES 350 comes with a 268 hp 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the ES 300h hybrid has a total system power of 200 hp from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine linked to an electric motor.