2026 Lexus ES Unveiled With A Hybrid And EV Variant

Lexus today unveiled the successor to its prestigious ES sedan, a model that revolutionizes the luxury sedan segment. It had its world premiere at the Auto Shanghai Show in China and will be available to European customers from spring 2026.

The new ES sedan embodies Lexus’ innovative design concept of “Clean Tech x Elegance.” Although larger than its predecessor in all dimensions, it retains an elegant and sleek appearance. The distinctive Lexus “spindle” element has evolved into a new “spindle body” that extends across the entire body and suggests electrified power.

A particularly striking new detail is the twin L-signature lights, which will become a new Lexus trademark in the era of electrification. This design element combines L-shaped, inward-facing daytime running lights with L-shaped turn indicators.

The interior of the new ES sedan represents the pinnacle of Lexus’ approach to luxury. The space is simple, sophisticated, and focused on the comfort of all occupants. Special emphasis is placed on superior soundproofing and ride quality.

For the first time in the brand’s history, the ES features revolutionary “Hidden Tech” technology, with switches that remain invisible under the dashboard trim when the car is off, only appearing and illuminating when the driver starts the vehicle. Lexus’ Arena software platform enables this innovation.

For maximum comfort, the rear of the vehicle can be equipped with reclining seats, while leg support is available for the passenger seat, providing a first-class chauffeured driving experience.

The new ES sedan embodies Lexus’ multi-pathway strategy towards carbon neutrality. For the first time in the model’s history, in addition to hybrid versions, all-electric options are also available:

* ES 300h: Self-charging hybrid with a 2.5-litre engine with 201 hp (for Western European markets)

* ES 350h: Self-charging hybrid with a 2.5-litre engine with 247 hp (for Eastern European markets)

* ES 350e: Fully electric version with front-wheel drive and 224 hp

* ES 500e: Top-of-the-line electric version with all-wheel drive and 343 hp

The most powerful model, the ES 500e, is equipped with Lexus’ advanced DIRECT4 intelligent electric AWD system that continuously adjusts the distribution of drive torque to all four wheels according to road conditions and driver commands.

The new Lexus ES represents a significant step forward in the evolution of luxury sedans, combining elegance, refinement, and technological innovation with a diverse range of electrified powertrains. This “original Lexus,” present since the brand’s founding in 1989, continues the traditional values ​​of luxurious comfort while introducing groundbreaking innovations for a new era of mobility.

• Read More: Lexus Model Name Meanings Explained, From LX And GX To ES And RX