The 2026 Lexus ES: Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover
Lexus has pulled the wraps off the all-new 2026 ES sedan at the Shanghai Auto Show, and its a major revolution for one of the automaker's longest-running nameplates.
While SUVs dominate the brand’s lineup, the ES remains one of the foundations of the Lexus portfolio. The seventh-generation sedan now offers the choice between hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Key Points
- The next-generation ES sedan features more expressive styling, inspired by the LF-ZC concept, and rides on an extended wheelbase for improved interior space and comfort.
- The 2026 ES will be available as both a hybrid (ES350h) and fully electric model (ES350e and ES500e), marking Lexus’s first dual-platform approach for a sedan.
- Inside, the ES gains a minimalist, upscale cabin with a 14-inch touchscreen, available Executive rear-seat package, and refined ride quality, reinforcing its place as a core luxury model for Lexus.
2026 Lexus ES: All The Details
Built on a revised TNGA-K platform, the 2026 ES is longer, wider, and taller than before. The wheelbase stretches by 3.1 inches, now totaling 116.1 inches, while the overall length grows to 202.3 inches. These increases not only improve cabin space but also help accommodate a battery pack for electric versions. The new body design borrows cues from the LF-ZC concept, including a full-width taillight, sculpted sides, and a more streamlined front end with a reduced grille area.
The 2026 ES is the first Lexus sedan engineered from the outset to support both internal combustion and all-electric versions.
The hybrid variant, dubbed ES350h, uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, and an available all-wheel-drive system adds a second motor at the rear. Lexus hasn’t confirmed output, but it’s likely an upgrade over the current Camry Hybrid’s 225 hp setup.
The EV lineup includes two trims: the front-wheel-drive ES350e and the dual-motor all-wheel-drive ES500e. Lexus estimates up to 300 miles of range for the ES350e with 19-inch wheels. Power is likely shared with the Lexus RZ SUV, suggesting 224 hp for the ES350e and up to 408 hp for the ES500e, powered by a 77-kWh battery pack.
While performance and electrification mark big changes, the ES continues to emphasize refinement. Lexus promises improved ride quality from a new multilink rear suspension and a stiffer chassis.
Inside, the cabin features upscale materials, ambient lighting, and a new minimalist aesthetic. A 14-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster come standard. The top-tier ES350e Luxury trim will offer an Executive Package, adding rear seat massage, a passenger footrest, and ventilated reclining seats—features typically found in flagship sedans. The ES's overall length has been extended by approximately 6.5 inches and the wheelbase by 3 inches, which benefits passengers.
The ES is also the first Lexus model to receive the Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 (LSS+ 4.0)—a new version of Lexus’ active safety suite. The automaker hasn't provided many details about the system outside of mentioning it will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities.
The 2026 ES will go on sale next year. Additional details for LSS+ 4.0, as well as full vehicle specs and pricing, will be available closer to launch.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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YAWN. Everything is looking so homogoninzed these days. May as well slap a Tesla badge on it, most people wouldn't know the difference.
Interesting anyway...