Automotive
Lexus has pulled the wraps off a completely redesigned ES sedan at Auto Shanghai, signaling a bold new direction for one of its most popular luxury nameplates. After years of subtle updates, the 2026 Lexus ES arrives with sweeping changes—both under the hood and in its design language—ushering in a new chapter that includes hybrid and all-electric powertrains for the first time in the model’s history.
Design Influenced by Lexus’ Future Vision
Drawing heavily from the LF-ZL concept that made headlines in 2023, the new ES presents a cleaner, more futuristic face to the world. Gone is the oversized spindle grille that long defined Lexus styling, replaced with a sleeker, more cohesive front fascia. The body features dramatic sculpting and thick gloss-black trim that stretches along the lower doors—an eye-catching detail that may prove divisive but undeniably modern.
At the rear, Lexus has reworked the lighting signature with bold “L”-shaped taillights now integrating the turn signals, while a full-width light bar replaces the traditional emblem with LEXUS lettering. It’s a design refresh that not only modernizes the sedan but aligns it more closely with the brand’s electrified identity.
A Cabin That Feels from the Future
Inside, the ES has taken a leap forward in tech and layout. A 12.3-inch digital cluster and a massive 14-inch infotainment screen dominate the cleanly styled dashboard, while optional passenger display screens further enhance the high-tech experience. Physical buttons are mostly gone, replaced by touch-sensitive controls and a streamlined interface. One welcome nod to practicality remains: a physical volume dial.
Luxury touches haven’t been forgotten. A new bamboo-inspired interior finish uses 3D-printing to mimic natural wood textures, while a panoramic glass roof can dim electronically at the touch of a button. Rear-seat passengers are treated to massaging seats and a dedicated climate control system built into the center armrest—amenities more commonly found in flagship sedans.
Lexus has stretched the new ES significantly, making it more imposing and spacious. It now measures 202.3 inches in length—6.5 inches longer than the previous model—with a wheelbase increase of 3.1 inches. It’s also wider and taller, particularly in its hybrid and EV forms, enhancing interior comfort without treading on the LS sedan’s territory, which remains the brand’s full-size flagship.
Electrified Powertrains Take Center Stage
In a major shift, the 2026 ES lineup will include not just one, but multiple electrified options. The hybrid versions will continue with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engine-based systems. However, the smaller hybrid won’t make it to U.S. shores. American buyers will get the ES 350h, which offers either front- or all-wheel drive and a total system output of up to 244 horsepower. Acceleration ranges from a modest 9.4 seconds to a brisk 7.8 seconds for the top hybrid model.
The real head-turner, though, is the all-new battery electric variant. Available as the front-wheel-drive ES 350e or the all-wheel-drive ES 500e, this marks the ES’s first foray into full electrification. The base EV delivers 221 horsepower and an estimated range of 300 miles in U.S. trim, while the dual-motor version packs 338 horsepower and hits 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds—at the cost of slightly reduced range.
Enhanced Chassis Dynamics and Technology
The ES has long been known for its ride comfort, and Lexus has doubled down on that reputation by adding a multi-link rear suspension and implementing rear-wheel steering—capable of turning the rear wheels in sync or opposite to the front depending on speed. The sedan also benefits from increased rigidity thanks to the latest evolution of Toyota’s TNGA GA-K platform.
Wheel options now range from 18 to 21 inches, with the automaker cautioning that larger wheels will impact the EV’s driving range.
Coming Mid-2026
Though officially unveiled, the all-new Lexus ES won’t arrive in showrooms until mid-2026. When it does, it will be one of the most technologically advanced and design-forward sedans in its class, merging Lexus’ legendary reliability with a bold new vision for luxury mobility.
The 2026 Lexus ES is no mere facelift—it’s a full transformation. With daring design cues, a tech-packed interior, and a lineup that includes both hybrid and fully electric models, it positions itself as a future-facing luxury sedan that doesn’t forget its roots. For Lexus loyalists and new buyers alike, this next-gen ES offers something truly compelling in an evolving automotive landscape.
FOLLOW US TODAY: