Lexus has introduced an all‑new generation ES sedan that stands apart with its sleek design and a range of options that let buyers choose the level of electrification that fits their needs. We recently drove the 2026 Lexus ES in both hybrid and electric form and found the hybrid ES 350h, along with the electric ES 350e and ES 500e, a joy to experience along the La Jolla shoreline on a sunny San Diego day.
Available trims include Premium, Premium+, and Luxury, depending on the model. The hybrid 350h gives the choice of front- or all-wheel drive, in either Premium or Premium+ trim. The electric front-wheel drive 350e and all-wheel drive 500e come in either Premium or Luxury variants. For those in search of maximum luxury features, the Premium+ and Luxury trims include amenities like a Mark Levinson 17-speaker surround sound system, parking assist with auto braking, a digital rearview mirror, and a panoramic view monitor that displays a 360‑degree overhead view for parking.
Inside the Lexus ES Cabin
All the models we drove featured a premium‑grade Lexus Interface with a 14-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-slide moonroof, and the Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 suite of safety features. Inside, NuLuxe, Lexus’s soft and durable synthetic leather, is standard on the Premium and Premium+, with the Luxury package featuring semi-aniline leather. Both interior trims were pleasant to the touch, with no lack of comfort in either the synthetic or real leather options.
The ES 350e Luxury model offers an optional Executive Package that transforms the rear cabin into a first‑class space. Heated and ventilated outboard seats, a rear massage function, multi‑zone climate controls, and a power rear sunshade are included, along with an ottoman for the passenger‑side rear seat. The ottoman can extend forward by automatically adjusting the front passenger seat, creating an impressively open and comfortable space. With a fellow driver at the wheel, we were able to experience the setup firsthand – the seat reclined, feet elevated, and the massage function engaged – making clear just how far Lexus has taken rear‑seat comfort in this new generation.
Lexus ES Power and Range
Sure to be a popular choice for Lexus buyers is the hybrid ES 350h. This model features 244 system horsepower, with the front-wheel drive model netting a combined 46 mpg and the all-wheel drive variant 44 mpg. Those wanting to go all-electric will find the front-wheel drive ES 350e’s single 221 horsepower motor delivering welcome performance and a 307-mile range.
The all-wheel drive ES 500e’s dual motor system features a commanding 338 horsepower and achieves 0-60 acceleration in 5.1 seconds. The tradeoff is a slightly lower 276-mile range than the single-motor version. We had more than one opportunity to prove the capabilities of the uplevel AWD model and found it is indeed a luxury vehicle with plenty of power to ensure one’s commute is comfortable and fast.
Driving Dynamics and Impressions
Our drives in and around La Jolla provided ample opportunity to experience the luxury feel and stylings of the new Lexus ES, as we drove each model throughout the day. The smooth rides through residential and busy highways felt equally peaceful in a serenely quiet cabin, where we had ample opportunity to enjoy the Mark Levinson surround-sound belting out 80s hits through this advanced multimedia system.
During our drives, where we experienced a briefly overcast morning that gave way to a fantastic sunny Southern California afternoon, we had the chance to take the Lexus ES 500e on some back roads to keep our time behind the wheel interesting. The 500e easily handled tight corners and delivered smooth and precise braking on demand when needed. Abundant power provided by its 338 horsepower electric drive system was very much appreciated when driving in uncrowded conditions.
Lexus ES Final Impressions
We came away from our time with the all‑new Lexus ES thoroughly impressed. Its expanded mix of hybrid and electric trims gives premium‑sedan buyers a wide range of choices in a sleek, stylish, and beautifully executed Lexus. The ES delivers a refined ride and a quiet cabin, along with a well‑balanced blend of technology, comfort, and performance. It stands out as a modern luxury sedan that makes choosing between hybrid or electric a matter of preference rather than compromise.