Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.MSRP: From $47,000Use the table of contents to jump to a sectionOverviewThe 2026 Lexus ES brings along a marked change for the sedan as it enters its eighth generation with a complete redesign. For the first time in ES history, the ES launches exclusively with electrified powertrains, offering both hybrid and fully electric variants. This represents a dramatic reimagining of the Lexus ES midsize luxury sedan since the nameplate debuted alongside the flagship LS in 1989.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe redesigned 2026 ES features dramatic new design language inspired by the LF-ZC concept, with a sleek, flowing profile. It grows over six inches longer than the outgoing model, with a 3-inch longer wheelbase, making the cabin significantly more spacious. The new TNGA-K platform accommodates both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains while maintaining the refined cabin experience that has defined the Lexus ES for decades.The electrified lineup consists of the ES 350h hybrid with optional all-wheel drive, plus two battery-electric models in the form of the front-wheel-drive ES 350e and the performance-oriented all-wheel-drive ES 500e. Entry-level models may show their Toyota roots somewhat, but loaded versions are better equipped to rival other midsize luxury sedans in the segment.2026 Lexus ES 350eLexusWhat's New for 2026The new-for-2026 ES represents the most dramatic transformation in the model's 35-year history. Every aspect has been reimagined, from the striking new exterior design to the modernized cabin featuring the Clean Tech x Elegance philosophy.Traditional gas-only powertrains are abandoned in favor of hybrid and battery-electric options across ES 350h, ES 350e, and ES 500e variants, marking the ES as the first core Lexus sedan offered exclusively with electrified power. The new ES grows in size, not only for aesthetics but also to offer more passenger room throughout the cabin. A 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system replaces the old model's 12.3-inch unit, featuring Lexus's latest interface with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Most physical buttons have been eliminated in favor of capacitive touch controls and integrated climate control knobs with individual temperature readout screens.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe ES becomes the first Lexus model to receive Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, representing significant updates to hardware and detection capabilities. For the first time in North America, an Executive Package offers reclining rear seats with a passenger-side ottoman and massage functions on the ES 350e FWD Luxury model. The new platform receives multi-link rear suspension for the first time in an ES, enhancing handling dynamics. And there’s a new Wavelength exterior finish that debuts across all ES models.2026 Lexus ES hybrid and EVLexusView the 2 images of this gallery on the original articleExteriorThe 2026 ES exterior draws design cues from the next-generation BEV concept, the LF-ZC, blending bold aesthetics with a minimalist approach. This represents Lexus's new design language called Clean Tech x Elegance. The new-generation spindle body integrates sharply from the hood to the bumper corners, creating a distinctive and aggressive-looking front fascia for the ES.Hybrid models feature a slim upper grille for cooling performance, while the twin L-Signature lamps serve as a new design identifier for a modern Lexus sedan. This is paired with inward-facing daytime running lights and outward-facing turn signals, which together form a double signature, again, enhancing the brand’s identity. The side profile emphasizes a flowing, trunkless silhouette with pronounced shoulder lines. At the rear, a tapered cabin and sculpted lower body create visual drama, while a new rear L-Signature lamp features a single light bar seamlessly integrated with the illuminated Lexus logo. A choice of wheel sizes includes 19-inch and 21-inch alloys, completing the new exterior look that commands an imposing road presence.2026 Lexus ES 350eLexusView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleInteriorWith the brand’s Clean Tech x Elegance philosophy, the ES’ cabin embodies a minimalist luxury look that’s in line with modern interior concepts for cars. This also means that buttons and knobs are at a minimum, with a new 14-inch touchscreen dominating the dashboard, mounted above capacitive touch controls. The cockpit follows Lexus's Tazuna driver-focused layout, with a low-profile instrumentation hood, housing a 12.3-inch multi-information display.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor the 2026 ES, Lexus debuts 3D-printed Bamboo Layering on the door trims paired with Thematic Ambient Illumination featuring new themes. The extended wheelbase makes for an expanded passenger space, while seating positions are placed higher to improve ingress/egress ease, as well as offering a wide field of vision for the occupants.The Executive Package on ES 350e FWD Luxury trim introduces reclining rear seats with a passenger-side ottoman, massaging seats, heating, and ventilation. The Mark Levinson Surround Sound System receives optimization with improved speaker placement to create an immersive three-dimensional soundstage. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard alongside dual Bluetooth connectivity.2026 Lexus ES interiorLexusView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articlePrice Range and Best Value TrimCategoryTrimPriceBase trim (Hybrid)ES 350h Premium FWD$49,700Mid trim (Hybrid)ES 350h Premium AWD$51,100Base trim (Electric)ES 350e Premium FWD$47,500Top trim (Electric)ES 500e Luxury AWD$58,900Best value trimES 350h Premium AWD$51,1002026 Lexus ES Specs OverviewThe ES lineup now only offers hybrid and battery-electric configurations. Hybrid models use Toyota's sixth-generation system with an eAxle that integrates the power control unit and transaxle into a single, space-efficient package. The ES 350e and ES 500e position their battery packs beneath the floor, which drops the center of gravity and improves stability during cornering. On the ES 500e, the Direct4 all-wheel-drive system continuously adjusts front-to-rear torque distribution with power transfer across the full 100:0 to 0:100 range, reacting to road conditions and throttle inputs. AdvertisementAdvertisementToyota redesigned the TNGA-K platform for this generation, reinforcing the front structure, floor pan, and rear section to increase overall rigidity. This results in a stiffer body structure, reduces unwanted vibrations, sharpens steering response, and smooths out acceleration and deceleration transitions, making the sedan feel sportier than its dimensions suggest.Powertrain OptionsEngineHorsepowerTransmissionDrivetrainES 350h (2.5L I4 Hybrid)244 hp (combined)eCVTFWD or AWDES 350e (BEV)221 hpDirect DriveFWDES 500e (BEV)338 hpDirect DriveAWD (Direct4)Note: ES 350e has a manufacturer-estimated 300-mile range with 19-inch wheels; ES 500e has approximately 250 miles with 19-inch wheels.Performance and 0-60 MPHLexus states the ES 350h accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds with FWD and 7.1 seconds with AWD. The battery-electric ES 350e claims a modest 7.4 seconds for a 0-60 mph run while the flagship ES 500e leverages its dual motors and Direct4 AWD for a quick 5.1-second run to 60 mph.2026 Lexus ES EV powertrainLexusEfficiency (MPG/MPGe)Official EPA ratings were not yet available for the 2026 ES at the time of writing. The previous generation ES 300h hybrid achieved 43 mpg city and 44 mpg highway. The new ES 350h will likely achieve approximately 45/45 mpg city/highway, similar to the related Toyota Camry hybrid. Battery-electric ES 350e and ES 500e will receive MPGe ratings reflecting electric efficiency once EPA testing is complete. Both BEV models support DC fast charging via NACS port with a maximum of 150 kW capability, plus Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging with an 11-kW onboard charger. Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging can reach 10-80% in approximately 30 minutes.DimensionsDimensionMeasurementLength202.3 inchesWidth75.5 inchesHeight61.2-61.4 inchesWheelbase116.1 inchesInterior Space (Front and Rear)MeasurementFrontRearHeadroom38.2 inches37.6 inchesLegroom41.8 inches40.7 inchesShoulder Room57.5 inches53.9 inchesHip Room56.8 inches*53.9 inchesCargo SpaceCargo Space Hybrid18.3 cu-ftCargo Space EV17.4 cu-ft2026 Lexus ES trunkLexusWarrantyCoverage TypeDurationBasic Warranty4 years / 50,000 milesPowertrain Warranty6 years / 70,000 milesHybrid/EV Components8 years / 100,000 milesComplimentary Maintenance1 year / 10,000 milesPros and ConsPros:AdvertisementAdvertisementExclusively electrified powertrain lineupDramatically increased interior spaceFirst-in-class Safety System+ 4.0Available Executive Package with rear luxury featuresMaintains Lexus' reputation for refinement and reliabilityCons:Exterior styling departs from classic ES eleganceTouch-heavy controls may put off traditional buyersBattery-electric models may command substantial premiumsCharging infrastructure considerations for BEV variantsVerdictThe 2026 Lexus ES embraces an electrified future while honoring its traditional offerings of luxury, refinement, and affordability. The new design is completely changed from the classically proportioned car it replaces, and opinions will certainly be divided. However, the substantially increased interior space, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive electrified lineup signal Lexus's serious commitment to future-focused transportation. The ES has always been a smooth operator, and Lexus says this new model has more chassis rigidity than older models, with greater attention spent on reducing body vibrations.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe 2026 Lexus ES’s prices start around $50K for the ES 350h, maintaining its competitive positioning against similarly equipped rivals. The ES 350h with all-wheel drive represents the best value trim, combining proven sixth-generation hybrid efficiency with enhanced traction and reasonable pricing for buyers seeking electrified luxury without full BEV commitment.2026 Lexus ESLexusCompetitorsBMW 5 SeriesMercedes-Benz E-ClassGenesis G80Audi A6Volvo S90Shop the Car MarketplaceThis story was originally published by Autoblog on May 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Cars section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
