Rahul Somvanshi
Lexus has taken a major leap forward with its popular ES sedan. The 2026 model brings something completely new to the table – an all-electric version alongside the hybrid option. This isn’t just another electric car announcement; it’s a significant shift for a model that has been around since Lexus began in 1989.
The Electric Revolution The new ES comes in two electric flavors. The basic ES350e delivers 221 horsepower through its front wheels. Want more power? The ES500e packs 338 horsepower and all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive version can travel up to 300 miles on a single charge with 19-inch wheels, while the more powerful all-wheel-drive model manages 250 miles.
“This represents the beginning of the next generation of Lexus,” says Kohei Chiashi, Lexus International Chief Engineer. He emphasizes how the car was developed at Toyota’s Technical Center Shimoyama, where teams worked together to refine every aspect of the vehicle.
The 2026 ES has grown considerably. It’s now 202.3 inches long – that’s 6.5 inches longer than before. The wheelbase (distance between front and back wheels) has stretched by 3.1 inches to 116.1 inches. This growth isn’t just for show – it means more space inside, especially for back-seat passengers.
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The ES electric models will use the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port – the same type Tesla uses. This means owners can use Tesla’s extensive charging network without adapters. The car can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using fast chargers.
The dashboard features a 14-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. The ES350e Luxury trim offers an Executive Package with reclining rear seats that include massage, heating, and ventilation functions. A premium 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system is available. The car also introduces new features like “Responsive Hidden Switches” – controls that blend seamlessly into the interior design.
The 2026 ES debuts Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, the brand’s newest safety package. While specific details are still under wraps, it builds on current features like pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The electric ES models are expected to start around $60,000, reaching up to $65,000 depending on features. Sales will begin in mid-2026.
A Quieter Future Lexus built its reputation on quiet, comfortable cars. The switch to electric power could make the ES even more peaceful. The new platform is stiffer, which helps reduce noise and vibrations. The car also uses improved door sealing and special sound-insulating glass in the front doors.
The Hybrid Option For those not ready to go fully electric, the ES350h hybrid combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It’s available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The 2026 Lexus ES represents a significant moment for the brand. It maintains the model’s focus on comfort and refinement while embracing electric technology. The success of this new generation will be crucial as Lexus navigates the changing automotive landscape.
