Lexus ES Gets Its Second Facelift in China: Will It Grace Indian Roads?

Lexus has once again redefined elegance and sophistication with the unveiling of the , now showcasing its second facelift. Released exclusively in China, this entry-level luxury sedan exudes refinement while staying true to its core ethos of innovation and craftsmanship. The question now lingering on every car enthusiast’s mind is, will this updated marvel find its way to India?

Lexus ES China’s Love Affair with the Lexus ES

The Lexus ES holds a special place in the Chinese market, accounting for half of Lexus’ sales in the country. This remarkable feat has encouraged the Japanese luxury carmaker to bestow the ES with a second styling update, ensuring it stays fresh and competitive in a demanding market. Meanwhile, whispers of a major global update for the ES, including an electric variant, are fueling anticipation for what’s to come in the latter half of 2025.

A Facelift that Turns Heads

The 2025 Lexus ES has undergone a series of subtle yet impactful upgrades. At the forefront is the redesigned grille, now inspired by the sleek “spindle body” design of the RX SUV. This updated grille flaunts body-colored accents in its upper section, seamlessly blending modernity with luxury. The dual L-shaped LED headlights add to its dynamic presence, illuminating the road ahead with precision.

At the rear, the ES makes a bold statement with full-width tail-lights, featuring four distinctive L-shaped light signatures. The traditional “L” emblem has been replaced with prominent “LEXUS” lettering, marking a shift in design language that feels both fresh and forward-thinking.

A Luxurious Cabin, Elevated

Stepping inside the 2025 Lexus ES feels like entering a realm of modern sophistication. Two new interior color schemes—Snowy Night White and Cinnabar Snowy White Night two-tone—add a layer of personalization for discerning buyers.

The highlight of the interior update is the introduction of a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, a cutting-edge addition borrowed from newer Lexus models. This advanced display not only controls entertainment but also manages climate control, with two intuitive dials integrated into the screen. The system runs on Lexus’ latest software and features voice recognition, setting a new benchmark for in-car technology.

The gear selector has been reimagined for a sleeker look, but the semi-digital instrument cluster remains unchanged, contrary to expectations of a fully digital setup seen in some leaked images.

Under the Hood: A Familiar Powertrain

The 2025 Lexus ES retains its reliable 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor in its hybrid variant, the ES300h. This combination delivers smooth and efficient performance, supported by a nickel-metal-hydride battery. However, it falls short of adopting the fifth-generation hybrid system seen in the Toyota Camry, which boasts a lithium-ion battery and a higher output of 228 bhp compared to the current 215 bhp.

What About India?

The Lexus ES is the only model from the brand locally assembled in India, making it a pivotal player in Lexus’ Indian portfolio. The latest facelift could potentially boost its appeal in the luxury sedan market, where it competes with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series.

If the 2025 Lexus ES makes its way to India, its updated design, cutting-edge technology, and proven hybrid powertrain could position it as a strong contender in the segment. With India’s growing appetite for hybrid and luxury vehicles, the timing couldn’t be better for Lexus to bring this masterpiece to Indian shores.