The 2026 Lexus ES delivers a radical transformation – an all-electric model for the first time, with bold design and comfort that would be the envy of even the business class of an airplane. This is the 2026 Lexus ES.
For all of you who thought it was Lexus ES a boring choice for moderate people with a love of soft leather seats and silence in the cabin – beware. The new generation for 2026 – 2026 Lexus ES – is no longer just an “anti-BMW 5”, but a futuristic sedan that combines Zen aesthetics, electric propulsion and high-tech goodness in one long, elegant package. Because, why drive when you can “swim” through traffic?
Exterior: ES went to a plastic surgeon – and the result is stunning
The design of the new ES is a real feast for the eyes. No longer an overly large grille at the front, but a harmonious whole inspired by the LF-ZL concept. The car is now an impressive 5140 mm long, with a wheelbase of 2950 mm – meaning more room for your legs and your ego. The pronounced hips, dark glossy door trim and distinctive LED lights clearly communicate: “I don’t drive a Toyota Camry, I drive something better.”
Interior: High-tech zen with a touch of bamboo
Inside the cabin, the ES has entered an era of digital purity. A 14-inch infotainment screen reigns over a minimalist dashboard, complemented by a 12.3-inch driver display. Buttons? Only for nostalgics. More exotic options include bamboo trim (yes, you read that right), ambient lighting, and a glass roof that darkens on command.
Behind the seats is a real luxury lounge: massaging seats, an air conditioning unit in the armrest, even adjustable backrests with a footrest (read: mini ottoman). Lexus now also offers an “Executive Package” where you feel like a Japanese CEO on the way from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Powertrains: Gasoline for traditionalists, electric for pioneers
Lexus now offers two basic choices:
Hybrid:
- ES 350h: 2.5-liter engine with 244 hp (182 kW), available with AWD or FWD, acceleration to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. Weight: 1,935 kg (4,268 lbs).
- ES 300h: 2.0-liter engine with 194 hp (143 kW), FWD only, more for European markets.
Electricity:
- ES 350e (FWD): 221 hp (165 kW), acceleration to 100 km/h in 8.9 s, range up to 483 km (300 miles, according to EPA). Weight: 2,104 kg (4,640 lbs).
- ES 500e (AWD): 338 hp (252 kW), acceleration 5.9 s, range 379 km (according to CLTC). Weight: 2,205 kg (4,861 lbs).
Both models use the latest TNGA GA-K platform and for the first time include a rear multi-link suspension, which promises more driving dynamics – although the ES was never intended to rival the M5.
Driving and experience: Among the clouds, not in the curves
Although Lexus now boldly mentions “driving sensations” and even “exhilarating acceleration,” the ES remains what it always was: a car you can spend three hours in traffic in and still feel like you’ve just stepped out of a spa. The quiet drive, exceptional insulation, and massaging seats are still the main selling points.
With increasing competition from electric sedans (hello, BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE), Lexus has finally entered the game of the future – but without giving up its DNA.
Conclusion: Is the 2026 Lexus ES the new definition of comfortable luxury?
If you're looking for a thrilling car that will keep you glued to your seat through corners – look elsewhere. But if you want to float down the road like on a meditative cloud, surrounded by bamboo, silence and the sounds of a Mark Levinson system – then the new Lexus ES is the perfect choice.
Pricing is not yet known, but based on previous generations, we expect an entry price of around $47,000 for the hybrid and around $60,000 for the electric ES 500e. Spring 2026 seems far away, but Lexus has made a clear message: the future is quiet, comfortable and electrified – with a bamboo touch.
