The 2026 Lexus ES is a huge change for one of the most successful luxury sedans in history. For years the ES has been a comfortable cruiser, and critics criticized them for being too bland. In 2026, Lexus has broken that mold. ES 2026 is the first of its kind. Instead of a standard gasoline combustion engine, Lexus is doing a “multi-pathway” approach for powertrains. Lexus is introducing their first battery electric vehicles along with a new powerful hybrid. Lexus’s 2026 ES is 6 inches longer than the previous for ES models, and and is built on a “heavily reinforced” TNGA GA-K platform. The new ES models offer an even more luxurious experience, almost like the cabin of the flagship LS, but not. With the new Clean x Tech design, the 2026 ES Lexus models now come with a fancy new design. Instead of the massive spindle grille like their design, the new ES models now have more sophisticated cleaner designs with body color along with their striking twin L shaped headlights. With the new Clean x Tech design, the 2026 ES models have replaced the large spindle grips. Now, they offer a more simplistic body color style along with their new striking twin L shaped headlights. These designs give the models a more futuristic, and predatorial stance when on the road.
Performance and Electrified Powertrains
The ES series of vehicles is also focused on performance finally. There are 3 different kinds of electric vehicles on the 2026 ES lineup. For the more traditional choice, the ES 350h hybrid has a 6th generation 2.5L engine and has a total of 244 horsepower. For the first of the fully electric choices, the ES 350e, it has front wheel drive and has an impressive 300 mile range. For the flagship version, the ES 500e has a dual motor all wheel drive and has 338 horsepower with an electric 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds. There is now a new multi-link rear suspension that creates a lot more rigidity which improves the driving experience and makes it feel more like a ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ performance level vehicle.
Comparative Specifications and Pricing
With the new levels of trim on the 2026, there are also new and more advanced technologies that also increase the price of the vehicles. The available configurations of the new vehicles are outlined below.
| Trim Level | Powertrain Type | Drivetrain | Est. MSRP (USD) | Key Highlight |
| ES 350e Premium | Battery Electric | FWD | $48,795 | 300-mile range, NACS port |
| ES 350h Premium | Hybrid Electric | FWD/AWD | $50,995 | 44+ MPG combined (est.) |
| ES 500e Luxury | Battery Electric | DIRECT4 AWD | $60,195 | 0-60 in 5.4s, Massaging seats |
| ES 350h Premium+ | Hybrid Electric | AWD | $57,195 | Mark Levinson Audio, HUD |
Interior Luxury and Next-Gen Technology
The 2026 Lexus ES combines technology and premium materials for a high-end driving experience. The new ‘Tazuna’ design takes into account everything to the last detail, and the driver will no longer find a touchpad, as the dashboard has a whopping 14-inch Lexus touchscreen. The most recent iteration of Lexus Interface will incorporate rapid voice commands and wireless smartphone control. The materials in the cabin are 3D printed bamboo wood. ‘Thematic Ambient Illumination’ syncs to the driving modes to provide a different experience in lighting and elegance.
The new Executive Package has features like rear seat massaging and reclining that are usually only available on European competitor models that start at a much higher price. This along with a longer wheelbase that allows for even more rear seat legroom means that the new ES is a great buy for chauffeur driven buyers.
Safety and Availability
The 2026 ES is the first model to have the Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 with new features like a more advanced lane tracing system and proactive driving assist so the driver doesn’t have to. ES models will get the new LSS+ by region with North America and Europe getting them first by spring 2026. Starting prices have increased to accommodate new technology but resale value, premium maintenance, and strong digital ecosystem make Lexus a smart value. The new ES is great to have for the modern executive for both safety and technology.
FAQs
Q1 Will there be a gas version of the 2026 Lexus ES?
No, the Lexus ES will no longer be offered with non-hybrid gasoline engines as they are discontinuing that option for the 2026 model year. They will be using only hybrids and fully electric powertrains.
Q2 How long does it take to charge the electric 2026 Lexus ES?
The ES 350e and ES 500e will take about 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% using a DC fast charger under optimal conditions.
Q3 Will the 2026 Lexus ES offer All-Wheel Drive?
Yes, All-Wheel Drive is offered on the ES 350h hybrid and is standard on the high-performance ES 500e electric model.
