Lexus has revealed the all-new 2026 ES sedan. This unveiling took place at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. The 8th generation of the Lexus ES brings big changes. Notably, it now offers an all-electric powertrain option, alongside strong-hybrid versions.
This isn’t just a minor update. The new Lexus ES is dimensionally larger than the previous model. Lexus also gave it a fresh design. The company says the new ES provides “first-class comfort for everyone on board”.
A Bold New Look New 2026 Lexus ES
The design of the 2026 Lexus ES takes cues from the Lexus LF-ZC concept. You’ll see a sharply defined spindle shape at the front. It extends from the hood to the bumper’s corners.
The all-electric version has a blanked-off front grille. This is a common design element for electric vehicles (EVs). Hybrid models include a slim upper grill. This grill helps with cooling.
Lexus kept the L-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs) at the front. However, the rear section has a completely new design for the tail lamps. The tail lamps now have a connected look.
Increased Size for More Space
The 2026 Lexus ES is bigger than the outgoing model. Here’s a quick look at the dimensional changes:
Length: Increased by 165mm
Width: Increased by 55mm
Height: Increased by 115mm (110mm for hybrid)
Wheelbase: Increased by 80mm
These changes mean more space inside the car for passengers and cargo.
Interior Design and Technology
Lexus adopted a minimalistic approach for the interior of the new ES sedan. This is a departure from more traditional designs. A large 14-inch screen is a key feature. It controls most of the car’s important functions. The screen also supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. For audiophiles, the sedan offers a Mark Levinson sound system.
Luxury Features
Lexus loaded the new ES with several luxury features:
Electrochromic panoramic glass roof
Rear reclining seats with ottoman function
Heating and ventilation for rear seats
High insulation glass for front doors
Safety First
The 2026 ES is the first Lexus vehicle to include Lexus Safety System+ 4.0. This is the latest suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features from Lexus.
Powertrain Options: Electric and Hybrid
The 2026 Lexus ES offers both all-electric and hybrid powertrain options. This gives buyers a choice based on their needs and preferences.
All-Electric Variants
The all-electric Lexus ES comes in two versions:
ES 350e: This version has front-wheel drive and delivers 224.3 bhp.
ES 550e: This is a more powerful all-wheel-drive version with 342.6 bhp.
Lexus claims the ES 350e can travel up to 685 kilometers on a single charge. The ES 550e has a claimed range of up to 610 kilometers. It’s important to note that these range figures are based on the CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle). Different testing cycles may yield different results.
Lexus hasn’t released the battery specifications yet. However, there’s an expectation that the all-electric ES will use the same 77kWh battery pack as the Lexus RZ SUV.
Hybrid Variants
The new Lexus ES also offers two hybrid variants:
ES 300h: This hybrid comes with two naturally aspirated petrol engine options:A 2.0-liter engine producing 197.1 bhp
A 2.5-liter engine producing 201.2 bhp
ES 350h: This hybrid uses a more powerful 2.5-liter petrol engine. It delivers 247.7 bhp.
The hybrid ES models use an eCVT gearbox. They are available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
2026 Lexus ES Dimensions
| Feature | Measurement (mm) | Change from Previous Model |
| Length | N/A | +165 |
| Width | N/A | +55 |
| Height | N/A | +115 (Hybrid: +110) |
| Wheelbase | N/A | +80 |
2026 Lexus ES Electric Powertrain Options
| Variant | Drivetrain | Horsepower (bhp) | Claimed Range (CLTC) |
| ES 350e | Front-Wheel | 224.3 | Up to 685 km |
| ES 550e | All-Wheel | 342.6 | Up to 610 km |
2026 Lexus ES Hybrid Powertrain Options
| Variant | Engine | Horsepower (bhp) | Drivetrain |
| ES 300h | 2.0-liter Petrol | 197.1 | Front/All-Wheel |
| ES 300h | 2.5-liter Petrol | 201.2 | Front/All-Wheel |
| ES 350h | 2.5-liter Petrol | 247.7 | Front/All-Wheel |
Analysis and Implications
The 2026 Lexus ES represents a significant step forward for the model. The addition of all-electric powertrains positions the ES to compete in the growing electric vehicle market. This move demonstrates Lexus’ commitment to offering diverse powertrain choices.
The increased dimensions suggest Lexus is prioritizing passenger comfort and space. The focus on technology and safety features aligns with the expectations of modern luxury car buyers.
The Future of the Lexus ES
The 2026 Lexus ES blends traditional Lexus luxury with modern technology and electrification. This combination aims to appeal to a broad range of buyers.
As the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, the ES is adapting to remain competitive. The success of the 2026 ES will depend on factors like pricing, real-world performance, and market acceptance of electric luxury sedans.
This new Lexus ES shows the company is serious about changing with the times. They want to give drivers what they expect in a luxury car, but also offer new choices like electric power. It will be interesting to watch how buyers respond to these changes and how the 2026 ES performs in the market.
I have aimed to provide a comprehensive and informative overview of the 2026 Lexus ES, based on the provided document. I expanded the information with general knowledge about the automotive industry and Lexus’s strategy.