Lexus introduces a unique deodorizing footrest for the ES sedan in Japan, alongside new aerodynamic kits and Modellista trims. Discover the details now!
Lexus has rolled out the eighth‑generation ES sedan to its home market, Japan, after the model first debuted in the United States and Europe. While the hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, Japanese buyers can now choose from a far richer palette of accessories – from bodykits and interior lighting to a surprisingly novel footrest that eliminates odors.
What Makes the New ES Different?
The latest ES feels more daring than its predecessors, thanks to a suite of visual and functional upgrades. The standout is a specially designed footrest that actively neutralises unpleasant smells that can develop around drivers’ and passengers’ feet during long journeys. Priced at ¥46,200 (about $290), the mechanism behind the deodorising effect has not been disclosed by the automaker.
Deodorizing Footrest – A Closer Look
Located on the floor of the cabin, the footrest combines a sleek shape with a built‑in odor‑absorbing system. Although Lexus has kept the technical details under wraps, the feature is marketed toward owners who frequently experience foot‑related odor issues, promising a fresher driving environment without the need for aftermarket solutions.
Aerodynamic and Modellista Packages
Beyond the footrest, Lexus offers a range of official aerodynamic accessories that lower the car’s ride height and improve airflow. The package includes a front splitter, side skirts, and an expanded rear diffuser finished in high‑gloss black. Each D‑pillar is fitted with a water‑drop‑shaped wing that stabilises vortices along the rear side, enhancing stability and steering response.
For customers seeking an even bolder look, the Modellista kit adds body‑colour side skirts, illuminated side sills, and a rear bumper extension that reduces ground clearance by up to 26 mm. The package also features a “fish‑tail” rear‑view mirror surround and 21‑inch forged aluminium wheels in a dark‑metal finish.
Regional Differences in Options
Japanese buyers enjoy the full suite of exterior choices, while U.S. customers currently have a limited selection – mainly black‑logo badging, wheel locks, and protective film. Lighting options also diverge: the Japan‑spec ES can be equipped with a welcome‑light system that projects the Lexus emblem onto the road and creates geometric side‑light patterns along the body.
Additional lighting touches include illuminated door sills, boot lid trims, and under‑door LEDs bearing the Lexus badge. Buyers who want extra flair can add illuminated cup holders and door pockets in a variety of colours.
Interior Comfort and Safety Upgrades
Inside, the ES receives practical enhancements such as head‑rest pillows, rear‑seat storage bins with tablet trays, premium floor mats, and a high‑grade luggage‑compartment carpet. The ES350e Rr Comfort package – the Japanese counterpart of the U.S. Executive trim – targets rear‑seat passengers with added amenities.
Security is bolstered by physical locks for the wheels and steering column, as well as an upgraded anti‑theft system.
Pricing and Availability
In Japan, the base hybrid ES350h (front‑wheel drive) starts at ¥7,900,000 (approximately $49,200). The top‑end electric ES350e FWD with the Rr Comfort package and the AWD ES500e version are priced at ¥9,200,000 (about $57,300). For comparison, U.S. pricing runs slightly higher, ranging from $51,095 to $60,295 depending on the trim level.
Key accessory prices are as follows:
- Aerodynamic kit: ¥293,700 (≈ $1,800)
- Stabilising wing: ¥22,000 (≈ $140)
- Modellista package: ¥642,400 (≈ $4,000)
- 21‑inch forged wheels: ¥964,700 (≈ $6,000)
- Welcome‑light grille: ¥55,000 (≈ $340)
- Side‑panel welcome‑light: ¥83,600 (≈ $520)
Conclusion
Lexus is clearly positioning the new ES as a premium, customizable sedan for the Japanese market, offering everything from scent‑free footrests to high‑performance aerodynamic kits. Whether you value a fresher cabin, sharper looks, or advanced tech, the latest ES provides a compelling set of options that set it apart from previous generations.