The 2026 Lexus ES debuts on a refreshed platform for its eighth generation with a consistent goal: unparalleled comfort in a luxury sedan. What’s evolved—significantly—is everything else. A shift to exclusively hybrid and electric powertrains highlights Lexus’s emphasis on efficiency, while the new ES’s design opts for a conservative approach at the expense of standout aesthetics.
To debut its latest model, Lexus organized its media drive in La Jolla, California, a wealthy San Diego area where luxury vehicles like Lexuses, Benzes, and Porsches dominate the streets. A luxury sedan fits perfectly in this locale, and the 2026 Lexus ES may just embody the ideal car you’d usually see parked in front of these cliffside residences. During my time behind the wheel of the 2026 Lexus ES350h, ES350e, and ES500e, I experienced the streets in comfort akin to a true La Jollan.
The Essentials
The eighth-gen ES eliminates the traditional gas powertrain. For the first time in the model’s history, Lexus has designed a multi-pathway platform that accommodates a gas-electric hybrid and two battery-electric powertrains under one shared structure. The outcome is three unique variants: the ES 350h hybrid in FWD or AWD, the ES 350e battery-electric FWD, and the ES 500e battery-electric AWD. All three share the same chassis, interior framework, 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen, and standard Lexus Safety System+ 4.0. What differentiates them is what’s beneath the floor and how that alters the driving experience.
At first glance, the 2026 ES is a sizable sedan. In terms of dimensions, it’s longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, and if it were any bigger, you might consider it a crossover. A commenter on our initial reveal story aptly noted: “It resembles a blend of a BMW and a Hyundai.” However, it doesn’t quite captivate attention. The body lines of this generation are sharp like the folds of a paper airplane, but this is a common trend among automakers. A contrasting trim element along the lower side of the door seems more like an afterthought than a design intention, and the basic 19-inch wheels with their plastic aerocovers do no favors to its premium feel. Upgrading to the optional 21-inch alloys makes the entire car come together seamlessly. They represent a substantial enhancement and justify every dollar spent.
Inside, the ES reinforces its case. The interior is refined and clean. Those with simpler tastes might call it tranquil, but I can envision more daring individuals deeming it bland. What is indisputable is its cleanliness by design. A 14-inch touchscreen is positioned above a soft-touch panel for controls related to climate, volume, and defrosting. The overall dashboard and center console UX are user-friendly, though I wouldn’t oppose a few more buttons for tactile interaction. There’s certainly room for it.
What falls short is the synthetic leather on the steering wheel, offering a soft, foam-like texture that does not align with premium standards. It’s a minor but noticeable inconsistency. Likewise, the digital door latch system—push to open, pull for emergency release—proved unreliable in practice. On several occasions, the door failed to open smoothly on either action, which is an irritating flaw in a vehicle at this price range. The driver-facing eye-monitoring feature, which alerts when your gaze strays from the road, was so overly sensitive that it soon became a candidate for deactivation.
Experiencing the 2026 Lexus ES
What truly counts is its performance. All three variants were tested consecutively on the same scenic roads, making the comparisons clear. In brief: each of these vehicles is remarkably enjoyable and tranquil to operate. The ES has consistently prioritized refinement over performance, and this new model upholds that commitment as effectively as its predecessors.
We’ve all encountered the cliché describing luxury cars that “drive on clouds.” The ES 350h embodies that sentiment as though it were the guiding principle of its engineering design. Featuring its sixth-generation hybrid system—a new configuration for Lexus yielding 244 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a front motor generator—it boasts a commendable EPA-estimated 46 MPG combined in FWD form. On La Jolla’s blend of smooth coastal roads and bumpier local streets, the 350h felt composed and effortless. Acceleration is sufficient for day-to-day driving, but flooring it exposes the CVT’s unpleasant traits. Thankfully, such instances are infrequent, and the powertrain is so seamless under normal conditions that the CVT often goes unnoticed. Light steering inputs, a serene ride, and almost complete isolation from road noise make the 350h feel less like a car and more like a living space in motion.
The ES350e, Lexus’s inaugural battery-electric ES, enhances that very character with an added layer of calm. It accelerates quicker and exhibits more torque than the hybrid from a standstill, operating silently without any moving pistons. The 350e is so quiet that you could traverse the world of A Quiet Place without rousing the creatures. With an EPA-estimated range of 307 miles on standard 19-inch wheels, it emerges as the most sensible option within the lineup for the majority of consumers.
The ES 500e elevates the stakes with an additional rear motor for a total of 338 horsepower and DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, achieving 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. That’s brisk for a luxury sedan of this dimension, but it doesn’t deliver neck-snapping acceleration like other performance EV sedans currently available. Whether the AWD feature offsets the range difference—276 miles compared to the 350e’s 307—depends on individual driving patterns and locations. For those in Southern California, the answer is likely no.
The Executive Package merits a dedicated mention. Available solely for the ES 350e Luxury trim at $3,635, it converts the rear passenger-side seat into something that belongs in a first-class cabin: a power-reclining seat with an ottoman, heated and ventilated cushions, a massage feature, a pillow-like headrest, and controls integrated into the center armrest alongside rear window shade operation. When you recline into the Executive position, the front passenger seat automatically shifts forward, and its headrest lowers, enhancing sightlines and granting the rear passenger a sweeping view of the surroundings. Stationed at a lookout above La Jolla Shores with the ottoman extended, rear shade drawn, and the Pacific Ocean stretching out through the glass, I genuinely found it challenging to come up with a reason to exit the vehicle. If you’re purchasing the ES 350e Luxury, ensure you don’t pass on this package.
Pricing for the 2026 ES begins at $48,895 for the ES 350e Premium, $51,895 for the ES 500e Premium AWD, and $51,095 for the ES 350h Premium. The ES 350e Luxury—the trim featuring the Executive Package—starts at $57,295 before any extras. The ES 500e Luxury AWD caps the lineup at $60,295. All prices include a $1,395 destination charge from Lexus.
For those deciding among the three variants, the choice is more straightforward than it appears. If you prioritize gas-electric efficiency and seek the hybrid’s 46 MPG, the 350h is your option. If you’re inclined toward electric and desire the most range coupled with the most tranquil experience, the 350e is the standout in the lineup. The 500e delivers genuine performance but feels slightly misaligned with the ES’s essence—the additional power is there if needed, but in day-to-day driving, it rarely comes into play.
Preliminary Assessment
The 2026 Lexus ES isn’t likely to sway driving enthusiasts, nor is it attempting to. It’s aimed at being the finest version of a sophisticated, comfortable, luxury sedan—and on the coastal roads of La Jolla, with the Pacific in the rearview and a cabin that insulates you from the world’s disruptions, it’s difficult to dispute that it hasn’t achieved that goal.
Lexus facilitated travel and accommodations for The Drive and provided access to a vehicle for the purpose of composing this review.
2026 Lexus ES350e, ES350h, ES500e Specifications
| ES350e | ES350h | ES500e | |
| Base Price | $48,895 | $51,095 | $51,895 |
| Powertrain | single or dual electric motors | 74.7 kWh battery | rear- or all-wheel drive | 2.5-liter inline-four with a hybrid motor | CVT automatic transmission | front- or all-wheel drive | single or dual electric motors | 74.7 kWh battery | rear- or all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 221 | 244 | 338 |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft | 323 lb-ft |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | — | — |
| Curb Weight | 4,707 pounds | 4,001 pounds | 4,928 pounds |
| Cargo Volume | 13.3 cubic feet | — | — |
| Max Charging Speed | 150 kW | NA | 150 kW |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.4 seconds | 7.3 seconds (7.1 AWD) | 5.1 seconds |
| EPA Range | up to 307 miles | NA | up to 276 miles |
| Initial Score | 6/10 |
Quick Overview
A true luxury sedan.
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**2026 Lexus ES Initial Drive Review: In-Depth Insights on the New Luxury Sedan Offered in Electric and Hybrid Models**
The 2026 Lexus ES has been unveiled, showcasing a mix of luxury, efficiency, and sustainability. This latest iteration of the favored sedan comes with notable updates, including the launch of electric and hybrid models, catering to the changing demands of consumers who desire environmentally friendly options without sacrificing luxury.
**Aesthetic Appeal**
The 2026 ES maintains the classy outline that has characterized the model for years, but with subtle improvements that provide a more contemporary and assertive profile. The front design boasts a striking spindle grille, complemented by sleek LED headlights that create an impressive appearance. The refined body lines enhance aerodynamics, particularly beneficial for the electric variant.
Inside, the interior reflects Lexus’s dedication to luxury. Premium materials, such as leather seating and wood embellishments, create a welcoming environment. The configuration is driver-focused, featuring a sizable infotainment display that integrates smoothly with the digital instrument cluster. Mood lighting adds an element of elegance, enriching the overall ambiance.
**Engine Options**
The 2026 Lexus ES presents a variety of powertrains, encompassing traditional gasoline engines, a hybrid variant, and an entirely electric option.
1. **Gasoline Engines**: The entry-level model offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing a balanced combination of power and fuel efficiency. For individuals seeking more performance, a 3.5-liter V6 engine is also available, delivering a sportier driving dynamic.
2. **Hybrid Option**: The hybrid variant pairs a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, enhancing fuel economy and lowering emissions. The transition between electric and gas power is seamless, ensuring a smooth driving experience.
3. **Electric Option**: The all-electric ES signifies a significant advancement for Lexus in the EV sector. With a robust electric motor and a substantial battery pack, it promises noteworthy range and performance. The electric model boasts rapid acceleration and a tranquil ride, meeting the expectations of luxury EV consumers.
**On-Road Experience**
The inaugural drive of the 2026 Lexus ES reveals a refined driving experience. The suspension has been calibrated for comfort, smoothing over road imperfections while maintaining stability during eager driving. The steering is precise, fostering a connection to the road that is often absent in luxury automobiles.
The hybrid and electric versions highlight their near-silent operation, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere within the cabin. Regenerative braking in the hybrid and electric variants contributes to efficiency while delivering a familiar driving sensation.
**Technological and Safety Innovations**
Lexus has outfitted the 2026 ES with a host of advanced technological features. The infotainment system is user-friendly, compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A premium audio system elevates the listening experience, making it ideal for lengthy journeys.
Safety takes precedence, and the ES is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+ package, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts, and a pre-collision system. These elements collaborate to boost driver confidence and ensure reassurance on the road.
**Final Thoughts**
The 2026 Lexus ES emerges as a distinguished luxury sedan embracing the future of automotive innovation with its electric and hybrid models. With its polished design, impressive powertrain options, and commitment to safety and technology, the ES continues to reinforce Lexus’s reputation for quality. As consumers increasingly value sustainability, the 2026 ES positions itself as a compelling option in the luxury sedan segment, appealing to both traditional customers and those looking for greener alternatives.