The 2024 Lexus Es 250 stands as a testament to luxury and innovation, seamlessly blending sophisticated design with cutting-edge technology. As a discerning driver, understanding the array of features and safety systems integrated into your Lexus ES 250 is paramount for maximizing both enjoyment and safety. This guide provides an overview of the key functionalities you’ll find in your vehicle, drawing from official documentation to ensure accuracy and relevance for the English-speaking market.
Navigation and Awareness Technologies
Navigating modern roads requires more than just a map, and the 2024 Lexus ES 250 is equipped with advanced systems to enhance your spatial awareness.
Navigation System: Guidance with Awareness
The in-vehicle Navigation System is designed to be a helpful tool for locating destinations and points of interest. However, it’s important to recognize its limitations. The system’s accuracy can be affected by changes in road systems and may not have detailed coverage for all areas. Always use your own judgment and common sense when following system directions, as discrepancies between the system’s guidance and your actual location can occur. Keep in mind that periodic updates for the navigation system are available, typically at an additional cost, to ensure you have the most current map data. For comprehensive details, consult your Navigation System Owner’s Manual. Bilingual capabilities are available in some models.
Backup Camera: Enhancing Rear Visibility
The Backup Camera is a valuable aid when reversing, but it does not provide a complete picture of the area behind your vehicle. To ensure safety, always supplement the camera view by physically looking around outside your vehicle and using your mirrors to confirm that the path behind you is clear. Relying solely on the backup camera can lead to overlooking objects outside of its field of view.
Wide-view Front and Side Monitor: Expanding Your Perspective
For maneuvering in tight spaces, the Wide-view Front and Side Monitor can be incredibly beneficial. However, it is crucial to understand that this system, like the backup camera, does not offer a comprehensive view. Always visually check your surroundings and use your mirrors to confirm clearance when using this monitor. Its effectiveness can also be limited in cold weather, potentially causing a cloudy display.
Blind Spot Monitor: Assisting with Lane Changes
The Blind Spot Monitor is designed to alert you to vehicles in your blind spots, but it should not be your sole method for determining lane change safety. Before changing lanes, always perform a visual check over your shoulder and use your turn signals. The system has limitations in its function, detection range, and clarity. Refer to your Owner’s Manual for a complete understanding of its limitations and proper usage.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Alerting to Approaching Cross Traffic
Similarly, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system is an aid, not a replacement for careful observation. Do not rely exclusively on RCTA when reversing. Always look around, check over your shoulder, and use your mirrors to ensure rearward clearance. RCTA has limitations in function, detection, and range. Consult your Owner’s Manual for a complete list of limitations and directions.
Driver Attention Monitor: Promoting Attentive Driving
The Driver Attention Monitor is designed to detect potential hazards ahead and alert the driver if their face appears to be turned away, suggesting inattentiveness. It is not a collision-avoidance system and is not a substitute for focused driving. The system’s effectiveness is dependent on various factors, and detailed information can be found in your Owner’s Manual.
Safety and Control Systems: Engineered for Confidence
The 2024 Lexus ES 250 incorporates a suite of safety and control systems, all designed to work in conjunction with, not in place of, responsible driving habits.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM): Maintaining Control
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and, where applicable, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), are electronic systems engineered to help drivers maintain vehicle control in challenging conditions. These are aids to safe driving, not substitutes for it. Factors like speed, road conditions, and steering input can all influence the effectiveness of VSC and VDIM in preventing loss of control. Consult your Owner’s Manual for in-depth details on these systems.
Brake Assist: Enhancing Braking Performance
Brake Assist is designed to help drivers utilize the full potential of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in emergency braking situations. It is not, however, a replacement for safe driving practices. Effective braking also relies on proper maintenance of the brake system and optimal tire and road conditions.
Pre-Collision System: Mitigating Frontal Collision Impact
The Pre-Collision System is engineered to help reduce the speed and severity of damage in specific frontal collisions. It is important to understand that it is not a collision-avoidance system and does not replace the need for attentive and safe driving. System effectiveness is influenced by factors like speed, driver input, and road conditions. Further details are available in your Owner’s Manual.
Tire Pressure Monitor: Promoting Tire Safety and Efficiency
The Lexus Tire Pressure Monitor system alerts you when tire pressure drops to a critically low level. For optimal tire wear and performance, regularly check your tire pressure with a gauge and do not solely rely on the monitor system. Your Owner’s Manual contains detailed information on tire pressure monitoring.
Airbag Systems: Supplemental Restraint for Occupant Safety
The airbag (“AB”) systems are Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS). Airbags are designed to inflate only in specific conditions and severe collisions: frontal and knee airbags in frontal impacts; side and side curtain airbags in side impacts; and roll-sensing curtain airbags in severe tilts, rolls, or lateral G-forces. In all other types of accidents, airbags may not deploy. To minimize injury risk from inflating airbags, always wear seatbelts. Never place a rearward-facing child seat in the front passenger seat. More information and warnings can be found in your Owner’s Manual.
Smart Stop Technology: Assisting in Emergency Stops
Smart Stop Technology activates during certain simultaneous brake and gas pedal applications. When engaged, it reduces engine power to assist the brakes in bringing the vehicle to a stop. Stopping distance can still be affected by factors such as speed, road conditions, and driver input. Smart Stop Technology is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving and does not guarantee instantaneous stopping. Refer to your Owner’s Manual for further details.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Driver Assistance for Highway Driving
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is designed to assist the driver in maintaining a safe following distance and is not a replacement for attentive driving. It is imperative to consult your Owner’s Manual for important cautions and instructions regarding its use.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA): Helping to Stay Within Lane Markers
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is designed to detect lane markers under certain conditions and provide visual and audible alerts when lane departure is detected. It is not a collision-avoidance system or a substitute for safe and attentive driving. Its effectiveness is dependent on many factors. See your Owner’s Manual for more information.
Intelligent High Beams and Automatic High Beam (AHB): Optimizing Nighttime Visibility
Intelligent High Beam headlamps and the Automatic High Beam feature are designed to enhance nighttime vision. However, conditions such as a dirty windshield, rapidly changing light, or hilly terrain can limit their effectiveness. In such situations, manual high beam operation may be necessary. Please see your Owner’s Manual for details.
Traffic Jam Assist: Easing Driving in Congested Conditions
Traffic Jam Assist requires an active Drive Connect subscription. It is designed to function on controlled-access highways at speeds of 40 km/h or less and requires constant driver supervision. It is not an automated driving system. Use this system in accordance with applicable laws and refer to the Owner’s Manual for instructions and limitations.
Advanced Park: Assisting with Parking Maneuvers
Advanced Park is designed to assist with parking but should not be overly relied upon. Always pay attention to the vehicle’s surroundings when using the hands-free parking feature. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for additional instructions and limitations before operating.
Convenience and Entertainment Features: Enhancing the Driving Experience
Beyond safety, the 2024 Lexus ES 250 offers a range of features designed for convenience and entertainment.
Satellite Radio: Expanding Audio Entertainment Options
Satellite Radio requires a compatible receiver and a monthly service subscription. Reception of the satellite signal can vary depending on location. Contact your Lexus Dealer for further details and subscription information.
Mark Levinson® Premium Audio: Immersive Sound Quality
The Mark Levinson® audio system, a registered trademark of Harman International Industries Inc., provides a high-fidelity listening experience. The system delivers 835-watt continuous average power across all channels, driven at less than 0.1% THD from 20–20,000 Hz (specification #3 in original text).
iPod® and Bluetooth® Connectivity: Integrating Your Devices
iPod® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. Lexus tests certain Bluetooth®-capable phones for compatibility. Consult your Lexus Dealer for compatibility details. Lexus’s recommendations do not warrant phone performance, and issues may arise based on phone software or service coverage. Some Bluetooth®-equipped vehicles offer bilingual capability.
HomeLink®: Integrated Home Automation
HomeLink®, a registered trademark of Johnson Controls, provides integrated control of compatible home automation devices.
Dual Screen Rear DVD Entertainment System: Rear Passenger Entertainment
Vehicles equipped with the dual-screen Rear-Seat Entertainment System come standard with a single-disc DVD player. Split-screen functionality requires a separate DVD player or game system using the center console’s video/audio inputs.
Wireless Headphones: Private Listening for Passengers
Wireless headphones are intended for passenger use only. Do not use headphones while operating the vehicle.
Remote Connect: Vehicle Control at Your Fingertips
Remote Connect requires a subscription and is dependent on various factors including telematics device operation, cellular connection, and GPS signal. Use only when aware of vehicle surroundings and when legal and safe (e.g., do not remotely start in enclosed spaces or if occupied by a child). Registration and app download are required. Service terms and limitations apply, see Owner’s Manual and Lexus website for details.
Service Connect: Vehicle Health Monitoring
Service Connect provides vehicle information and service alerts based on the last data collection and may not be real-time. It relies on telematics, cellular connection, and GPS, and functionality can be limited. Apps/services vary by phone carrier, and data charges may apply. Subscription required after trial period. See Lexus website for details and privacy information.
Safety Connect: Emergency Assistance and Security
Safety Connect (including Automatic Collision Notification, Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Locator) requires a subscription and depends on telematics, cellular connectivity, and GPS signal. Contact with the response center and emergency support availability can be limited. Subscription required after trial. Terms and conditions apply.
Stolen Vehicle Locator: Security Feature
Use of the Stolen Vehicle Locator requires a stolen vehicle police report.
Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™: Seamless Smartphone Integration
Amazon Alexa, Alexa, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ are trademarks of their respective companies. Skills, services, and functionality are subject to change. Compatibility requires a paired phone and incurs data charges.
Lexus App: Enhanced Vehicle Interaction
Lexus App services depend on a compatible wireless network and third-party provider. Lexus is not responsible for cellular network discontinuation. A compatible phone pairing is needed, and data charges apply.
Lexus Enform: Connected Services Suite
Lexus Enform services rely on a compatible wireless network and third-party provider. Lexus is not responsible for network discontinuation. Data charges apply. Subscription required after the trial period. Terms and conditions apply.
Destination Assist: Live Navigation Support
Destination Assist requires a subscription. Information accuracy depends on many factors; use common sense when relying on it and always obey traffic regulations. Services and programming are subject to change and are not available in all areas.
Digital Key: Keyless Convenience
Digital Key requires an active Remote Connect subscription and Bluetooth connectivity. Not available on manual transmissions. Remote Connect subscription and app download are also required. Remote features availability varies by model. Use only in safe and legal circumstances. Operability depends on telematics, cellular connection, and GPS signal. Cellular service is provided by a third party. Lexus is not responsible for cellular network discontinuation. Services are subject to change. Terms of Use and data charges may apply. See Owner’s Manual for precautions and limitations.
Performance and Utility Considerations
While the ES 250 prioritizes luxury and efficiency, understanding performance and utility aspects is also important.
Horsepower and Torque: Engine Performance Metrics
Horsepower and torque ratings are achieved using premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. (specification #6 in original text). Maximum output indicates combined engine and HV battery output where applicable (specification #5 in original text).
Top Track Speed: Performance for Comparison
Top Track Speed figures are for comparison only and were obtained with prototype vehicles by professional drivers using special safety equipment and procedures. (specification #7 in original text).
Towing and Kick Sensor: Capability and Considerations
Before towing, ensure vehicle and trailer compatibility, proper hookup and loading, and necessary additional equipment. If gross trailer weight exceeds 5,000 lb (2,268 kg), a weight-distributing hitch is required. Do not exceed weight ratings and follow all manufacturer instructions. Maximum towing capacity depends on vehicle curb weight and added equipment/cargo. Weigh your vehicle to determine exact curb weight. For vehicles with a kick sensor, tow hitch installation may require disabling or removing the sensor. See Owner’s Manual for towing limitations and kick sensor details. Provincial towing laws may necessitate towing brakes. Confirm applicable laws and vehicle accommodation for towing brakes. (specification #45 in original text).
HAC & DAC: Hill-Assist Technologies
HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) minimizes backward rolling on steep inclines. DAC (Downhill Assist Control) helps maintain control and speed on steep downhill descents. These are aids, not substitutes for safe driving judgment. Effectiveness is influenced by speed, grade, surface conditions, and driver input. See your Owner’s Manual for further details.
Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) Front Seats: Enhanced Seat Design
Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to help reduce whiplash extent in certain rear-end collisions. (specification #17 in original text).
Night View: Enhanced Night Vision Assistance
Night View is designed to alert drivers to objects beyond low-beam headlight range. Drivers should only glance at the image occasionally. Cold weather and air conditioning may limit system effectiveness. (specification #18 in original text).
Roof Rack (LX Models): Cargo Carrying Capacity
The roof rack on LX models has a capacity of 130 lb. Crossbars are not recommended for luggage. (specification #29 in original text).
TORSEN®: Drivetrain Technology
TORSEN® is a registered trademark of Zexel Torsen, Inc., often associated with differential technology in vehicles. (specification #28 in original text).
Conclusion
The 2024 Lexus ES 250 is replete with advanced features and safety systems designed to elevate your driving experience. From navigation and awareness technologies to comprehensive safety and convenient entertainment, understanding these systems is key to fully appreciating your vehicle. Remember, these technologies are designed to assist, not replace, safe and attentive driving practices. Always consult your Owner’s Manual for detailed information, limitations, and specific operating instructions to ensure both your enjoyment and safety on every journey in your 2024 Lexus ES 250.
