2026 Lexus ES Gets More Executive Elite With Hybrid & EV Options

Lexus, Toyota's luxury car manufacturing arm, unveiled the new Lexus ES at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show. The luxury sedan has not only been offered as a hybrid option but has also been made available as an electric vehicle (EV). Based on the company's claims, the new Lexus ES offers improved performance, refinement, comfort, and luxury and is one of the brand's cars to arrive in Europe in Spring 2026.

As per available information, Lexus will introduce three variants of upgraded ES in the United Kingdom, with the range starting with the ES 300h hybrid that gets a larger battery pack than the latest model, paired with the brand's 2.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor, delivering the combined power of 198 bhp. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options are available in this trim.

After this base variant, there is the ES 350e, which is available in an FWD option and features a single electric motor that produces 221 bhp. A long-range ES 500e variant is also available, featuring two electric motors that deliver 338 bhp and DIRECT4 AWD.

The all-new Lexus ES sits on the redesigned Lexus global architecture-K platform and has wider tracks and a multi-link rear suspension layout. The Japanese luxury brand has claimed that precise measures have been taken to refine the ride quality. Its steering system uses variable gear racks that maintain stability at high speeds, ensure quick responses during cornering, and improve low-speed maneuverability.

The ES sedan features a new design language sharing some elements with the latest Toyota C-HR and Prius. The slim, sharp DRLs are placed above the LED headlamps. However, the sedan does not feature any gaping grille, as found in the new Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series. Instead, it has a smaller grille between the lights and some venting in the lower bumper.

The side profile appears to be updated with fairly complex surfacing. There is a roofline that neatly floats to the rear, adding to its coupe-like stance. While the automaker initially aimed to sell the new generation Lexus ES in Europe and the UK, North America and Asia will also witness the debut of this flagship sedan. There is no confirmation or update if the new Lexus ES will be launched in the Middle East, including the UAE.

However, the 2025 Lexus ES is available in the UAE with a starting price of AED 215,000, which suggests that the automaker may introduce EV and hybrid iterations of the ES sedan in the coming months.

At the rear, both models feature a full-width rear light bar with illuminated Lexus lettering and a set of vertical reflectors. While the HEV variant features a fuel filler cap at the rear, the EV has a charging port on the front wing. Compared to old-generation models, the new Lexus ES is 165 mm longer. This means the sedan now stretches 5,140 mm, longer than its Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz rivals.

Lexus has also increased the legroom area by 77 mm for rear seat occupants, ensuring higher seating positions for easy entry and exit. Inside the cabin, you'll find an updated 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14-inch LexusConnect infotainment display, and touch-sensitive climate control controls below it. The dashboard looks elegant and premium, with two USB-C ports and some hidden storage.

Lexus has claimed to offer regular over-the-air wireless software updates to ensure continuous feature improvements. It features synthetic leather seat upholstery for a clean and modern look and plenty of safety features, including a driver monitor system and adaptive high beams.