Next-gen Lexus ES going hybrid and electric

The 2026 ES will be the first Lexus core model to be offered as a multi-platform vehicle.

2026 Lexus ES exterior — *The 2026 Lexus ES will be available with hybrid and electric powertrains. – Lexus Canada photo*

Lexus has unveiled the next generation of its ES sedan, which will be offered as a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and as a hybrid.

It’s the first Lexus core model to be offered as a multi-platform vehicle.

The ES is one of the two cars that have been available in the Canadian Lexus lineup since the brand launched here in 1990. The other is the company’s flagship LS.

The 2026 ES will mark the car’s eighth generation.

The new sedan, with its angular design, was unveiled at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. It’s launching for the 2026 model year.

Powertrain options

The new ES sits on a redesigned TNGA GA-K platform, which was developed to accommodate hybrid and BEV powertrains.

The car will be offered in three versions – the hybrid ES 350h and the all-new electric ES 350e and ES 500e.

ES 350h

In Canada, the ES 350h comes standard with all-wheel drive. It is powered by a new 2.5-litre hybrid system with an integrated eAxle combining the power control unit and transaxle, which the automaker contributes to a more compact and lightweight powertrain while getting higher battery output.

Lexus said the rigidity of the power unit has been reinforced to help suppress vibrations for a quieter, more refined ride.

ES 350e and 500e

The ES 350e will offer front-wheel drive and the ES 500e will offer all-wheel drive. The electric sedan keeps its large-capacity battery beneath the floor.

The ES 500e features an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that continuously adjusts torque distribution to all four wheels based on road conditions and driving inputs. The car can distribute drive force ratio between 100:0 and 0:100 to the front and rear wheels. Lexus said this improves acceleration, handling stability and energy efficiency.

The ES 350e with 19-inch wheels has an estimated driving range of 480 kilometres.

All three versions are available with wheel sizes of 19 and 21 inches.

2026 Lexus ES interior — *The 2026 Lexus ES is said to be quieter on the inside and have a more refined ride thanks to increased rigidity. – Lexus Canada photo*

Improved ride

Lexus said the 2026 ES gets significantly increased rigidity at the front, floor and rear. This helps to reduce body vibrations and allows for sharp and intuitive steering and smoother acceleration and deceleration.

“The result is an agile and responsive driving feel that defies the vehicle’s size,” Lexus said in a news release.

Design

The 2026 ES design is inspired by the company’s LF-ZC concept vehicle and introduces the automaker’s new design concept, Clean Tech x Elegance.

Lexus said the design blends a bold presence with refined minimalism.

The car will include a variety of comfort and safety tech and will be the first Lexus vehicle to include Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, the company’s latest active safety suite.

The new ES will debut by March 2026.

Canadian market details, including price and vehicle specs, will be announced closer to the car’s launch date.

For updates, visit the Lexus Canada website.