The Lexus ES lineup is expanding for 2021 as the company has announced the sedan will be offered with a new all-wheel drive system.
Following in the footsteps of the Toyota Camry, the 2021 Lexus ES gains a new 250 AWD variant which has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 203 hp (151 kW / 206 PS) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque.
While that’s significantly less than the ES 350, which has a 3.5-liter V6 pumping out 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 267 lb-ft (362 Nm) of torque, Lexus noted the four-cylinder model is more fuel-efficient as it has a combined fuel economy rating of 28 mpg. That’s 2 mpg better than the ES 350, but the ES 250 AWD is significantly slower as the dash to 60 mph (96 km/h) takes an additional 2.0 seconds.
Of course, the real benefit is improved traction and Lexus said the all-wheel drive system can send up to up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels. The system responds to acceleration and slippage, and is disengaged to prioritize fuel efficiency when all-wheel isn’t needed.
Lexus went on to say the all-wheel drive system doesn’t affect interior room or ride comfort, while also noting trim specific tuning carries over. As a result, the ES F Sport has the same sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels even if it’s equipped with all-wheel drive.
New Black Line Special Edition limited to 1,500 units
If all-wheel drive isn’t your thing, fear not as Lexus also introduced the ES 350 Black Line Special Edition. Based on the F Sport trim, the special edition features an Obsidian, Ultra White or Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 exterior with black mirrors, a black spoiler and dark wheels. The model also has a black and white interior with gray contrast stitching.
Production will be limited to 1,500 units and each will come with a set of travel cases designed by Zero Halliburton. They include a 26” Medium Travel Case and a 22” Continental Carry-on with a “sumptuous interior lining,” a Lexus grille motif and an embossed Lexus logo on their leather badge.
Besides the all-wheel drive system and new special edition, the 2021 ES Luxury, F Sport and Ultra Luxury now come standard with a blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert. The ES 300h’s nickel-metal hybrid battery has also been replaced by a more modern lithium-ion battery and this helps to “free up trunk space.”
The 2021 Lexus ES lineup will arrive at U.S. dealerships this fall and pricing will be announced closer to launch.