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NEWS
June 12, 2026
The ES ushers in a new era for Lexus's next-generation electric vehicles with a full model change.
LEXUS ES
Lexus has launched the all-new ES, marking a full model change. The eighth-generation model will be available exclusively as a hybrid (HEV) or battery electric vehicle (BEV).
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
A New Spindle Body and a Refined Lexus Interior
The ES, a flagship model for Lexus since its debut in 1989 and sold in over 80 countries and regions, has undergone a full model change.
The eighth-generation ES is a complete overhaul, spearheading Lexus's next-generation electric vehicle lineup. In pursuit of a carbon-neutral society through Lexus's multi-pathway approach, the powertrain options are limited to HEV and BEV, with both front-wheel drive (FF) and all-wheel drive (4WD) configurations available.
With dimensions of 5,140mm in length and 1,920mm in width, the new model is 165mm longer and 55mm wider than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also been extended by 80mm to 2,950mm, creating a more spacious interior. The overall height has increased to 1,555mm for the HEV and 1,560mm for the BEV, up by 110mm and 115mm respectively.
The exterior draws inspiration from Lexus's next-generation BEV design theme, "Provocative Simplicity," to express a new generation of spindle body design. The styling is instantly recognizable as an electric model, deepening its elegant aesthetic.
The interior features newly developed "Responsive Hide Switches" on the steering wheel and instrument panel. These illuminate function icons when approached, creating a clean instrument panel area that doesn't overtly emphasize technology.
Furthermore, Lexus introduces "Bamboo Layering (Surface Illumination)" for the first time – an ornamental trim that showcases the rich texture of bamboo during the day and emits a soft, warm light at night through surface illumination technology, adding depth to the cabin and creating a refined Lexus atmosphere.
Additionally, the BEV FF model "350e" now offers a new "Rr Comfort package" with enhanced rear-seat amenities, including reclining seats, ottomans, and a front passenger seat forward-folding function.
The comfortable ride, a hallmark of the ES that minimizes fatigue even on long journeys, has been further refined with the dedicated "TNGA Platform (GA-K)." This platform, compatible with both HEV and BEV powertrains, enhances ride comfort by suppressing vibrations through core rigidity.
The HEV powertrain delivers a combined maximum output of 182kW (248ps) from a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and electric motor. For the BEV models, the FF "350e" offers a maximum system output of 165kW (224ps), while the 4WD "500e" produces 252kW (342ps).
Both BEV models feature a total battery capacity of 74.69kWh. The "350e" achieves a WLTC range of 670km, and the "500e" achieves 636km.
The body color options include seven choices, such as the new "Soh" color, which expresses the clean image of the BEV.
Pricing starts at ¥7,900,000 for the HEV "ES350h" FF model and ¥8,100,000 for the 4WD. The BEV FF model, "350e," is priced at ¥7,900,000, with the well-equipped "version L" at ¥8,800,000 and the "Rr Comfort package" at ¥9,200,000. The 4WD model "500e" is ¥8,300,000, and the "version L" is ¥9,200,000.
LEXUS ES
Body Dimensions | HEV: Length 5,140 x Width 1,920 x Height 1,555mm
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Wheelbase | 2,950mm
Curb Weight | HEV: 1,830kg (FF) / 1,890kg (4WD)
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HEV Engine | 2.5-liter inline-4
HEV System Max Output | 182kW (248ps)
BEV System Max Output | 350e: 165kW (224ps) / 500e: 252kW (352ps)
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive or All-wheel drive
Tire Size | HEV: 235/55R19
BEV: 235/55R19 or 235/45R21
Contact Information
Learn More About the LEXUS ES
Q. What was the development concept behind the new ES?
Under the theme "DISCOVER CONFIDENCE," the new ES was developed to refine the comfortable ride that minimizes fatigue on long journeys, a characteristic inherited from previous generations, while also achieving a higher level of performance that allows drivers to operate with confidence. Lexus also plans to assign unique themes following "DISCOVER" to each model to define their respective experiential values, with the new ES being the first to lead this initiative.
Q. What kind of technology is used in the "Responsive Hide Switches" that appear when you approach them?
The Responsive Hide Switch is a world-first physical switch that achieves a simple interior space through a design that integrates physical switches into the interior trim. The sensation of "emerging from nothingness" as function icons illuminate when approached offers a new experiential value of merging functional display with material. While offering a minimalist appearance similar to a capacitive touch panel, its design ensures accurate operation with a distinct tactile click, preventing accidental presses. It is said to express Japan's omotenashi hospitality, which is attuned to human sensibilities, through technology.
Q. What kind of driving control technology is equipped in the BEV model "500e"?
The "ES500e" features "DIRECT4," which precisely controls the drive force of all four wheels based on sensor information such as wheel speed, acceleration, and steering angle. By constantly managing the four-wheel drive force regardless of road or driving conditions, it achieves both superior handling stability unique to electric vehicles and driving enjoyment. This system merges Lexus's accumulated electrification and vehicle dynamics control technologies to deliver a drive that is attuned to the driver's senses.