New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed
New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
Despite undergoing two facelifts during its lifecycle, the outgoing Lexus ES couldn’t mask its aging design. First introduced in 2018 as the seventh-generation model, it was clearly time for a complete overhaul and Lexus has finally delivered. Making its global debut at Auto Shanghai this week, the all-new 2026 Lexus ES arrives with sweeping changes inside and out.
The bold new styling may seem recognizable, and there's a reason for that the ES takes clear inspiration from the LF-ZL concept first revealed over a year ago. While the production model tones down some of the concept’s more dramatic elements, it still marks a striking evolution from its predecessor. One of the most welcome changes is the departure of the car’s signature oversized grille. That said, the sharply sculpted profile featuring thick gloss-black trim running across the doors might divide opinions among fans.
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
An electric variant joins the lineup for the first time, indicated by the charging port now positioned on the front fender. Out back, the taillights have been completely redesigned, with the lower “L”-shaped elements now serving as turn signals, while reverse lights are relocated beneath. A fog light appears on one side, and the traditional Lexus badge has been replaced by prominent lettering across the upper light bar.
Inside, the transformation continues. The cabin adopts a minimalist aesthetic, replacing many physical buttons with a cleaner layout. Dominating the dashboard are a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen. Higher trims may also include a dedicated screen for front passengers, depending on market availability.
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
The steering wheel now features embossed Lexus branding rather than a center emblem, and the previous gear shifter has been swapped for a more compact selector. Below the infotainment display, a few touch-sensitive shortcut keys remain, along with a traditional volume dial for ease of access. Additional high-tech touches include a panoramic glass roof with an adjustable opacity setting, plus rear massaging seats and a separate climate control panel integrated into the center armrest.
The interior also introduces a unique bamboo-inspired finish, adding a natural flair to the luxury experience. Even the instrument panel uses 3D-printed textures to mimic real bamboo, while ambient lighting embedded in the door panels debuts as a first for the brand.
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
The new ES is notably larger than before, stretching 6.5 inches (165 mm) longer to reach an overall length of 202.3 inches (5,140 mm). Much of that growth comes from the wheelbase, which increases by 3.1 inches (80 mm) to 116.1 inches (2,950 mm), and the car is also wider by 2.1 inches (55 mm), now measuring 75.6 inches (1,920 mm) across. Despite its expanded dimensions, Lexus confirms the ES will continue to sit below the flagship LS in the brand lineup.
In terms of height, the hybrid model stands 4.3 inches (110 mm) taller than the previous generation at 61.2 inches (1,555 mm), with the electric version adding another 0.2 inches (5 mm). Curb weights range from 3,935 lbs (1,785 kg) for the front-wheel-drive ES 300h to 5,037 lbs (2,285 kg) for the all-wheel-drive ES 500e.
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
For power, the 2026 ES offers two hybrid variants using 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines. However, only the 2.5-liter ES 350h will be available in the U.S., offered with either front- or all-wheel drive. System outputs range from 194 hp for the 2.0-liter hybrid to 244 hp for the larger engine. Acceleration times vary accordingly, from 9.4 seconds to 7.8 seconds for the 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) sprint.
The electric ES arrives in ES 350e (FWD) and ES 500e (AWD) forms. The base EV produces 221 hp, achieving 0–62 mph in 8.9 seconds with up to 426 miles (685 km) of CLTC-rated range though U.S. models are expected to deliver around 300 miles (483 km). The dual-motor AWD ES 500e ups the ante with 338 hp, slashing acceleration to just 5.9 seconds, though range drops to 379 miles (610 km) under CLTC testing.
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New 2026 Lexus ES: Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Details Revealed |
Other key updates include all-wheel steering, which improves agility by allowing rear wheels to pivot up to four degrees opposite the front wheels at low speeds and in sync at higher speeds. A new multi-link rear suspension enhances ride comfort, supported by an upgraded version of Toyota’s TNGA GA-K platform aimed at boosting body rigidity. Wheel sizes range from 18 to 21 inches, with larger options affecting the EV’s driving range figures quoted are based on 19-inch wheels.
Though it made its world premiere at Auto Shanghai, the all-new 2026 Lexus ES won't hit dealerships until mid-2026.
Read also: 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Adventure-Ready and Sharper Than Ever
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