As we edge closer to 2026, Lexus has once again raised the bar in the luxury sedan segment with the unveiling of the 2026 Lexus ES. Known for its refined aesthetics, serene ride quality and cutting-edge hybrid technology, the ES has consistently delivered a premium driving experience. With the 2026 model, Lexus isn’t just continuing tradition—it’s redefining what drivers can expect from an executive saloon.
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A Fresh Take on Timeless Elegance
From the first glance, the 2026 Lexus ES impresses with a sleek, reimagined design that blends sophistication with sporty dynamism. The updated spindle grille, now more integrated and subtle, offers a fresh face that aligns with Lexus’s evolving design philosophy. Sharp LED headlamps and a sculpted bonnet add to its modern flair, while maintaining the elegance that ES fans have grown to love. Whether you’re cruising through the city or arriving at a formal event, the 2026 Lexus ES makes a statement without shouting.
2026 Lexus ES – Complete Specifications Chart
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2026 |
| Make | Lexus |
| Model | ES |
| Body Style | Midsize Luxury Sedan |
| Engine Options | 2.5L Inline-4 / 3.5L V6 / Hybrid Powertrain |
| Horsepower | 203 hp (I-4) / 302 hp (V6) / 215 hp (Hybrid) |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft (I-4) / 267 lb-ft (V6) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic / CVT (Hybrid) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (AWD on select trims) |
| Fuel Economy (Est.) | Up to 44 MPG (Hybrid) / 26 MPG Combined (Gas) |
| 0-60 MPH | Around 6.6 seconds (V6) |
| Top Speed | Approx. 131 mph (V6) |
| Infotainment System | 12.3-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Audio System | Premium Sound by Mark Levinson (available) |
| Safety Features | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Assist |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Interior Features | Leather Upholstery, Heated & Ventilated Seats, Power Sunroof |
| Cargo Capacity | 13.9 cubic feet (approx.) |
| Wheel Options | 17″, 18″, or 19″ Alloy Wheels |
| Trim Levels | ES 250, ES 300h, ES 350, F SPORT Design & Handling |
| Base Price (Est.) | Starting from $43,000 (USD) |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (Basic) |
Interior: A Cocoon of Comfort and Tech
Step inside the 2026 Lexus ES and you’re immediately enveloped in a cabin that feels more like a private lounge than a car interior. Lexus has focused on crafting a space that combines Japanese hospitality—known as ‘Omotenashi’—with modern luxury. From hand-stitched leather upholstery to new sustainable trim options, every surface of the 2026, Lexus ES exudes thoughtful craftsmanship. The dashboard layout has been subtly reworked for better ergonomics, and the new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system is not only intuitive but also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Driving Experience: Smooth, Silent, Sublime
If there’s one thing the 2026 Lexus ES excels at, it’s delivering a drive that’s as smooth as silk. Thanks to enhancements in the suspension geometry and noise insulation, road imperfections are barely felt, and outside noise remains just that—outside. The new adaptive variable suspension system reacts in milliseconds to changing road conditions, offering a composed yet agile ride. Whether you’re on a motorway or navigating city streets, the 2026 Lexus ES delivers a truly serene driving experience.
Hybrid Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Performance
Under the bonnet, the 2026 Lexus ES continues to embrace electrification with its advanced hybrid powertrain. The ES 300h variant, the most popular in the UK market, is now equipped with a fourth-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system. It pairs a 2.5-litre inline-four petrol engine with a more powerful electric motor, delivering a combined output of 215 horsepower. What’s more, the 2026 Lexus ES achieves even greater fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions than its predecessor—an important consideration in today’s eco-conscious world.
Safety Comes Standard
The 2026 Lexus ES is packed with the latest iteration of the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering enhanced driver assistance features. This includes advanced pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and an improved pre-collision system that now includes motorcyclist detection. With safety being more important than ever, the 2026 Lexus ES stands out as a vehicle that protects its occupants as diligently as it pampers them.
Customisation Options for Every Driver
Lexus understands that no two drivers are the same, which is why the 2026 Lexus ES offers a wide range of customisation options. From F SPORT styling packages that include sporty bumpers, larger wheels, and an exclusive grille pattern to luxury-focused trims with extra plush materials and ambient lighting, the 2026 Lexus ES can be tailored to suit any lifestyle. Even the colour palette sees new additions like Deep Sea Mica and Copper Crest, allowing drivers to express their personality through their car.
Infotainment and Connectivity: Smarter Than Ever
Gone are the days of clunky infotainment systems. The 2026 Lexus ES brings a seamlessly integrated tech suite that includes over-the-air updates, built-in navigation with real-time traffic, and even an AI-based voice assistant. The Lexus Interface system in the 2026 Lexus ES learns from your habits—whether that’s your regular routes or preferred climate settings—and adapts accordingly. There’s also a bespoke Lexus App for remote climate control, vehicle tracking, and service scheduling.
Rear Seat Experience: Executive-Class Comfort
It’s not just the driver who enjoys the perks of the 2026 Lexus ES. Rear passengers are treated to segment-leading legroom, plush seating with optional heating and ventilation, and retractable sunshades for added privacy. Whether you’re chauffeuring clients or simply enjoying a long journey with family, the rear cabin of the 2026 Lexus ES ensures that every passenger travels in style and comfort.
Eco-Friendly Luxury
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the 2026 Lexus ES proves that luxury doesn’t have to come at the cost of the environment. With sustainable interior materials, reduced plastic usage, and improved battery recycling methods, the 2026 Lexus ES aligns with Lexus’s broader environmental goals under its “Lexus Electrified” vision. Owning a luxury car like this can now feel as responsible as it is indulgent.
Market Position and Competitors
The 2026 Lexus ES continues to occupy a sweet spot in the executive saloon segment, offering a compelling alternative to the likes of the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Where those models lean heavily on performance and brand prestige, the 2026 Lexus ES places equal—if not greater—emphasis on comfort, refinement, and long-term reliability. For those who value a peaceful, dependable, and luxurious drive, the 2026 Lexus ES remains a top contender.
What’s New in the 2026 Model?
Compared to the previous year, the 2026 Lexus ES introduces a host of meaningful updates. These include:
- Refined exterior styling with a more cohesive grille design
- Upgraded hybrid powertrain with improved battery efficiency
- Redesigned infotainment system with quicker response and better UX
- Additional driver-assistance features as standard
- New F SPORT Handling variant with performance-tuned suspension
These refinements make the 2026 Lexus ES feel more polished, more responsive, and more connected than ever before.
Pricing and Availability in the UK
The 2026 Lexus ES is expected to go on sale in the UK in late 2025, with prices starting around £39,000 for the base model. Mid and upper trims with added luxury features and the F SPORT variant will range up to approximately £49,000. Given its build quality, technology, and hybrid credentials, the 2026 Lexus ES offers strong value in a competitive segment.
Ownership Experience: Reliability and Low Running Costs
Lexus has long been synonymous with reliability, and the 2026 Lexus ES carries that legacy forward. It continues to receive top marks in owner satisfaction surveys and benefits from Lexus’s excellent warranty programme, which includes a 10-year extended warranty with regular servicing. Coupled with the hybrid system’s impressive fuel economy—up to 56 mpg (WLTP)—the 2026 Lexus ES is one of the most cost-effective premium saloons to run over time.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2026 Lexus ES?
The 2026 Lexus ES is perfect for drivers who prioritise comfort, reliability, and cutting-edge hybrid technology over sheer performance. It’s ideal for professionals who spend a lot of time on the road, as well as families looking for a safe, quiet, and upscale driving experience. With its unique blend of innovation and elegance, the 2026 Lexus ES speaks to those who want their car to be a haven, not a hassle.
Conclusion: The Quiet Revolution Continues
In many ways, the 2026 Lexus ES doesn’t scream for attention—it whispers quality. It’s a car that invites you to slow down, savour the journey, and appreciate the finer details. In an automotive world increasingly dominated by noise and flash, the 2026 Lexus ES is a breath of fresh air. And in doing so, it sets a new standard for what executive saloons should strive to be.
If you’re in the market for a refined, eco-conscious luxury vehicle with an unmatched reputation for reliability, the 2026 Lexus ES might just be your perfect match. After all, some revolutions are best experienced in silence.