2022 Lexus ES specs detailed: New petrol-only option joins hybrid for facelifted Mercedes-Benz CLA and Volkswagen Arteon rival

Lexus Australia has confirmed the seventh-generation ES mid-size sedan will become available with a traditional petrol-only engine option for the first time when its facelifted version enters showrooms in August.

The new petrol-powered ES250 is motivated by a 152kW/243Nm 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, which is mated to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic.

That said, the ES300h hybrid has carried over, continuing to pair its own 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined power output of 160kW. It’s matched to an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT).

Both the ES250 and ES300h are available in entry-level Luxury and mid-range F Sport grades with optional Enhancement Packs, while the latter goes a step further with a Sports Luxury flagship.

Pricing for the five variants is yet to be announced, but for reference, the pre-facelift range started from $62,525 plus on-road costs for the ES300h Luxury and reached $77,000 for the ES300h Sports Luxury.

We do, however, know a lot of what to expect when it comes to standard specification, with the ES facelift ushering in revised rear suspension for improved ride and handling as well as a new 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system.

Safety-wise, the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system has been upgraded with intersection assist and daytime and night-time pedestrian and cyclist detection, while steering assist now has emergency functionality.

The F Sport and Sports Luxury grades also debut adaptive BladeScan LED high beams, while the adaptive dampers of the former’s ES300h variant now have a wider variable range of damping force thanks to a new actuator.

Stay tuned for more details on the Mercedes-Benz CLA and Volkswagen Arteon rival’s update as they come to hand.