2021 Lexus ES 250 revealed: Classy mid-sizer boosts safety tech

A bold new luxury cruiser is heading to Australia this winter with boosted safety, head-turning looks and cutting edge technology.

A new classy luxury sedan is preparing to hit the road this winter.

Lexus has revealed its new ES 250 mid-size sedan ahead of its arrival in local showrooms this August.

Prices haven’t been confirmed, but the ES 250 is likely to be less than the $70,000 asking price for the higher-spec ES 300h.

Lexus will launch the new ES 250 this August.

Lexus Australia chief, Scott Thompson, believes the ES 250 will build on the strong performance of the ES 300h, which has had solid sales since it was launched.

“With its stylish coupe-style silhouette, focus on craftsmanship and impeccable refinement, the seventh-generation Lexus ES has been extremely well received by luxury customers,” says Mr Thompson.

The Japanese brand claims luxury and comfort is the focus of the new ES model.

Reworked suspension has improved the ride, making for a smoother commute and road noise has also been minimised to make for a more relaxed cabin.

Lexus’s 12.3-inch central display is now a touchscreen, ditching the brand’s old mousepad style controls.

Lexus promises an improved drive experience.

The Japanese luxury maker has improved the ES’s safety tech. The auto emergency braking now detects oncoming vehicles in right hand turn scenarios at intersections and it now detects cyclists during the day and pedestrians at all times.

A new emergency steering assist allows for extra manoeuvrability during potential crash scenarios and evasive driving.

A well appointed interior will be a highlight.

The vehicle can also generate a distress call if it detects a collision or if an airbag has been deployed, with a Lexus call centre relaying the car’s location to emergency services.

Lexus has also improved its radar cruise and lane keep assist features for improved cornering ability.

Power for the ES 250 comes from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine making 152kW and 243Nm. This is matched to an eight-speed auto driving the front wheels.

Fuel use hasn’t been confirmed but it is likely to be a fair chunk more than the hybrid ES 300h’s 4.8L/100km, which uses the same engine matched to a small electric motor.