2026 Lexus ES
The Car That Won’t Be Stopped
Bigger, Bolder, Electrified — and Still on Top
By Gabe Levi | June 2025
Introduction: A Reshaped Leader in Luxury Sedans
The Lexus ES has long held an enviable position in the midsize luxury sedan segment — not just surviving, but thriving.
Now, with the arrival of the 2026 Lexus ES, Lexus takes a bold step forward, refusing to coast on past success. The redesign introduces a new aesthetic direction, expanded powertrain choices, and a more modern cabin — all while preserving the ES’s signature blend of comfort, reliability, and value.
Segment Performance: A Proven Winner
In 2024, Lexus sold over 43,000 ES models in the U.S., Dwarfing rivals like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Genesis G80. The first quarter of 2025 continues this strong trend.
Why redesign a segment leader? Because Lexus chooses to lead, not follow, taking an already dominant product and elevating it even further.
Exterior Design: From Conservative to Confident
Visually, the 2026 ES embraces a bolder, more athletic look. The car is now longer, wider, and taller, pushing into full-size sedan proportions.
A sharply defined indentation runs along the sides, adding a sense of motion and muscle. The new EV-specific front fascia ditches the traditional spindle grille in favor of a sleek, modern design, similar to that on the 2025 Lexus RZ. Crisp LED headlights and signature daytime running lights complete the updated face.
This is no longer a sedan that blends quietly into the crowd — it now demands attention.
Powertrain: Embracing the EV Era
The biggest mechanical advancement in the 2026 ES is the introduction of a fully electric variant.
Lexus will continue to offer its proven hybrid powertrain. For those embracing the EV future, the new electric ES is said to offer Tesla Supercharger compatibility, granting access to one of the most reliable and extensive fast-charging networks in the U.S.
Interior: Modern, Minimalist, and Luxurious
Inside, the 2026 ES reveals a clear design evolution. The cabin now features a 14-inch infotainment screen that anchors the dashboard, providing a bright and intuitive interface. A fully digital gauge cluster fits in seamlessly.
Lexus has replaced the traditional gear lever with a futuristic button-based shifter, further streamlining the cabin’s layout. While the interior leans toward minimalism, inviting comparisons to Tesla, Lexus still delivers a ‘Regular’ car feel.
Comfort & Driving Experience: Spacious and Effortless
Thanks to its larger dimensions, the new ES offers even more passenger space, particularly in the rear seats where legroom has always been generous.
Ride quality remains a question mark as I have yet to drive it.
Verdict: Lexus Pulls Further Ahead
The 2026 Lexus ES is no mere refresh; it is a strategic reinvention.
Lexus has thoughtfully evolved the ES’s design, introduced an intriguing EV option, and modernized the interior, all while preserving the core qualities that make this car a market leader. In a segment where many rivals are retreating from sedans altogether, Lexus is leaning in.
If you’re shopping for a midsize luxury sedan that delivers style, comfort, technology, and bulletproof reliability, the 2026 Lexus ES remains the one to beat.
Fuel for Thought | Levi Auto Group LLC
Written by Gabe Levi
