2026 Lexus ES Enters Eighth Gen with Hybrid, BEV Powertrains

The Lexus ES is a bona fide luxury sedan, and following the trends of electrification set forth by both Lexus and their competitors, its eighth-generation is set to arrive with hybrid and full battery-electric powertrains.

Unveiled at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, the 2026 Lexus ES will give buyers the choice between partially- and fully-electric propulsion. A staple choice since 1989, the ES is the first of the brand’s core models to be reinvigorated as a multi-platform vehicle, arriving by March 2026.

Even being nearly a year away from launch, Lexus was kind enough to share some of the details. The 2026 ES will be divided into four primary options across three grades: The entry-level ES 350h, the sole hybrid grade which can be had as front- or all-wheel drive; the ES 350e, the first all-electric model and front-wheel drive only; and the ES 500e, the all-wheel, all-electric version. The 350h will utilize a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eCVT transmission, whereas the 350e and 500e will use their own eAxle setups to achieve their respective drive layouts. A “large-capacity” battery will be mounted under the floor for a lower center of gravity, the capacity of which is unknown but an estimated 350e range of 300 miles is supposedly achievable from.

All ES models are built on the same GA-K platform, measuring 202.3 inches in length and 75.5 inches wide; compared to the current Lexus ES, that’s approximately 7 inches longer and 2 inches wider. The new model’s 116.1-inch wheelbase is 3 inches longer as well.

Those dimensions give way to an all-new design language of “Clean Tech x Elegance,” as coined by Lexus, inspiration of which was derived from the LF-ZC concept. “L-Signature Lamps” partially define the front, as do similarly styled rear lighting elements; though the illuminated Lexus insignia is the more immediate giveaway as to what it is. Wheel choices, at least currently, are between 19- and 21-inch designs. We’ll let you decide on the exterior, whether its blend of chiseled and smooth surfaces speaks to you.

The cabin is appropriately Luxury EXport US, both mathematically and materialistically. The expanded proportions allot for greater cabin space, and a higher seating position allows for easier entry and egress. According to Lexus, seats and trim elements have been slimmed down, adding to the open concept, while the lower edges of the front and side windows have been lowered to broaden the greenhouse. Making a North American debut on the ES will be an optional Executive Package, which really focuses on the rear seats, adding reclining, massaging seats, and heating/ventilation action. Up front, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display is joined by a 14-inch central touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The 2026 Lexus ES will start arriving at dealerships early next year, and as we approach said launch we’ll receive more exact details regarding the powertrain, amenities and Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, a new version of the brand’s onboard safety suite which the ES will be the first to deploy.