Upgrade when in doubt
The current-generation Lexus ESsedan doesn’t look very inspiring. The vehicle received a slight visual update in 2022 and is packed full of technology. It’s not bad, but it’s not the most desirable sedan in the $40,000-$50,000 range. It doesn’t really stand out for the right reasons. Spindle grille, we’re looking at your face.
The ES is not meant to be a sexy sports sedan. The IS does exactly that, but it doesn’t mean that the ES has to be anonymous like other Lexus offerings. Toyota’s TRD group offers visual upgrades to the ES. You won’t find a lot of vents and wings that go too far in one direction. We instead find a selection of components that provide a little more visual appeal, without being too loud about it.
What options are available for the ES You can purchase a basic body kit which adds a front spoiler and side skirts as well as a rear diffuser. You can purchase aerodynamic mirror covers and you can get new spoked wheels in either 19-inch or twenty-inch sizes. You can also add overlays to the door switch panels at the sides of the armrests. You can purchase each item separately. If you only need a subtle chin to accentuate the lower fascia, the front spoiler is for you. TRD does not offer a rear spoiler for the ES at this time. This is not necessarily a negative thing.
Other items can affect performance just a little, and we mean a tag. For improved stability, underbody braces can be added, while at the back you can purchase a pair sport mufflers. TRD does not mention power gains or changes in sound, but they are required if the rear diffuser is chosen. It changes the lower rear fascia and eliminates the trapezoid-style design to make way for quad exhaust tips. This is the most important TRD upgrade available on this short list of equipment.
It is important to mention that the upgrades are listed on TRD Japan’s website. These upgrades are only available in Japan, so they will not be available elsewhere. TRD is still thinking about the ES so even though it is currently limited in availability, it is likely that it will not be long-term.