2021 Lexus ES gets all-wheel drive, Black Line Special Edition

(August 24, 2020) PLANO, Texas — The Lexus ES family is expanding for 2021 with two new variations of the signature sedan. The 2021 Lexus ES 250 AWD will offer better traction when driving in inclement weather, and the 2021 ES 350 Black Line Special Edition brings a sporty, sleek look with the limited series.

Luxury, F SPORT and Ultra Luxury ES grades will be equipped with Standard Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. With the added variety, Lexus guests can choose the ES that fits their lifestyle and climate. The enhanced 2021 ES lineup will begin arriving at dealerships this fall.


The 2021 Lexus ES 250 AWD is the first all-wheel drive model for the ES series bringing with it the increased confidence
in inclement weather. From snow to rainy days or even the off-chance gravel road, drivers can be assured the ES AWD will help keep all four tires grounded — meaning more points of contact with the ground with the ability to help maintain traction on the back tires around turns.

2021 Lexus ES 350 Black Line Special Edition

Sending torque to all four wheels, the 2.5-liter L4 engine powers through conditions when traction is low to allow better acceler
ation with less tire slip. The improved traction of the 2021 ES AWD gives the vehicle the ability to accelerate from rest better with 203 horsepower and an estimated fuel rating of 28 combined MPG, better than other gas models in the ES family.

Dynamic Torque Control AWD can provide effective traction for inclement and slippery weather while minimizing AWD’s typical drag on fuel economy. The system can direct up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels, in response to acceleration from a start or slippage at the front wheels.


2021 Lexus ES 250 AWD

When AWD isn’t needed, the electromagnetic controlled coupling on the rear drive axle can disengage the propeller shaft to help prioritize fuel efficiency. The AWD is designed to re-engage in an instant, when needed, and its operation is transparent to the driver and passengers.
The addition of AWD does not affect legroom, trunk room, ride comfort, cabin quietness or vehicle agility. Inside, the car has the same rear seat hip point height as the FWD ES model for gas and hybrid.

The suspension tuning, wheels, and tires differentiating the ES model grades carry over to the AWD versions. That means, for example, the ES F SPORT grade features the same sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels in both FWD and AWD versions.



For 2021, a limited production of the Black Line Special Edition ES 350s will be available. Limited to 1,500 units, the Black Line Special Edition will be based on the F SPORT grade and will be offered in a choice of three exterior colors that include Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0, Obsidian and Ultra White, and the F SPORT-only two-tone interior that features white and black coloring with gray stitching. The Black Line ES 350s will also include unique features such as Black outer mirrors, darkened F SPORT wheels and lug nuts, and a new sporty, black rear lip spoiler.

For the 2021 Lexus Black Line Special Edition series, Zero Halliburton has customized a two-piece set of travel cases exclusively for Lexus. The Edge Lightweight Collection for Lexus builds on the excellence Zero Halliburton is known for with several distinctive features, including a chrome logo badge laser etched with “Zero Halliburton for Lexus,” a sumptuous interior lining, a Lexus grille motif and a Lexus embossed leather logo badge.

The custom Lexus Black Line Zero Halliburton luggage set includes an Edge Lightweight 22-inch Continental Carry-on and a 26” Medium Travel Case, both in black. Travel cases will be sent to guests at the address of their choice.