New Lexus ES: larger dimensions, fully electric versions, ottoman
Here it is – the Lexus ES sedan of the new, eighth generation. The car debuted in Shanghai, but it is already known that this Lexus ES will become global and will later be presented in many countries. So what can we expect from the new Lexus ES in general and Ukrainian buyers in particular? And when exactly can we expect all this? I will tell you now!
A business sedan that is already heading towards the executive sedan class
The topic of increasing the size of the next generation of cars has been followed for several years and even decades. With the release of new business-class models, or E-class according to the European classification, most have significantly increased in size and have come close to or even crossed the iconic 5-meter mark that once separated the sedans of the executive segment of the F -class. The new Lexus ES is no exception to this rule: the car has significantly increased in length and wheelbase - we have 5.14 m and 2.95 m, respectively!
At the same time, the designers tried to make these meters swift and attractive: a sharp “nose” and narrow upper strips of headlights (after all, they are now 2-story), a domed roof pulled back as much as possible, bold curves and lines on the doors, a short “tail” with a small trunk lid, crossed by a solid lantern. Thus, now the Lexus ES has no hint of kinship with the Toyota Camry ; although it still looks like the new Toyota bZ 7.
By the way, the rear of the car generally remains unchanged depending on the specific modification; but the front can change significantly – look closely at the front bumper and the presence/absence of an additional ventilation hole above the base of the radiator grille. It is this hole that tells us which version of the Lexus ES is: hybrid or… electric!
The new Lexus ES could be fully electric – a first in the model’s history
In addition to a significant increase in size and a total change in design, the new Lexus ES is also ready to surprise with its technology. It seems that everything is familiar: a base in the form of a supporting body, a GA - K platform, independent wheel suspensions. But the key technical feature of the Lexus ES is the appearance of a fully electric version, or rather, two.
The starting option is the Lexus ES 350 e, which offers a single electric motor with a capacity of 165 kW or 224 hp and front-wheel drive. For such an electric car, a range of up to 685 km is promised; however, this value is given according to a very optimistic CLTC measurement cycle. Although information about a range of 300 miles, i.e. about 480 km, has also been reported; judging by the presentation of the value in miles, these are data for the US market, respectively, given according to the more realistic EPA range assessment method.
The maximum option is the Lexus ES 500e, which has two electric motors with a total power of 252 kW or 343 hp and all-wheel drive. The range is smaller – up to 610 km on the CLTC cycle – but everything is justified by the dynamics of acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. By the way, according to available information, the ES 350 e version is not currently intended for Ukraine; it is very likely that we will only get the maximum 500th electric ES.
And of course: how can Lexus be without a hybrid?! It's okay, there will be hybrid versions too. The Lexus ES 300 h starts with a power of about 200 hp - the exact power value depends on the type of drive, which can be front-wheel or all-wheel drive. However, there is already information that this option is intended for the Western European market.
In addition, the car will also be offered in a hybrid version of the Lexus ES 350 h - and this is exactly the option that should appear in Ukraine. This is a hybrid that combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and electric motors. Moreover, the number of the latter varies depending on the type of drive. After all, the option is possible not only with front-wheel drive, but also with all-wheel drive - and in this case, a separate electric motor will be responsible for the rotation of the rear wheels. However, the total power of the Lexus ES 350 h hybrid sedan with any type of drive will be unchanged and will be 247 hp.
In the cabin – a large display (and more than one), bamboo trim, an ottoman chair
The new Lexus ES continues to surprise in the cabin as well. The front panel is made in a minimalist style, which is emphasized even by the Hidden Tech switches: these are hidden touch buttons that become visible only when illuminated. In addition, pay attention to the new steering wheel with the LEXUS inscription instead of the usual logo, the digital 12.3-inch instrument panel, as well as the large 14-inch central display. Or even – displays – because there can be two of them, depending on the version. True, such a mega-tablet looks a bit strange; similarly, as does the green interior trim with light wood decor.
Although the wooden decor itself should become another "highlight" of the Lexus ES interior : Bamboo Layering trim is promised, which will combine an interesting structure with the possibility of internal illumination of the panels. Finally, the Lexus ES sedan is ready to offer an ottoman chair in the back: a retractable footrest, a front seat with the ability to fold the headrest - all for the main rear passenger and, as it were, another hint at a representative F -class car.
How interesting the new Lexus ES sedan turned out to be ! But we'll have to wait to get to know it in person: the market launch of the new product in Europe is scheduled for the summer of 2026.