2026 Lexus ES 350h

• The 2026 Lexus ES introduces both hybrid and battery electric variants, marking a significant step in Lexus's electrification journey.

• Design cues from the LF-ZC concept influence its sleek exterior, while the interior boasts innovations like Responsive Hidden Switches and the Sensory Concierge system.​

• A phased global rollout is planned, starting mid-2026, positioning the Lexus ES as a core model in Lexus's evolving lineup.​

A Bold New Look Inspired by the LF-ZC Concept

Alright, so Lexus just dropped the new 2026 Lexus ES in Shanghai, and it’s not playing it safe this time. This thing looks like it actually wants to be noticed, which—let’s be honest—wasn’t always the case with the ES. The silhouette’s lower and sleeker, the front end’s more sculpted, and you can tell they’ve been borrowing pages from the LF-ZC concept. It’s a looker now, especially in profile, where the roofline stretches just right into the tail.

Zen-Meets-Sci-Fi Interior with Responsive Hidden Switches

Inside, they’ve gone full zen-meets-sci-fi. Lexus is pushing what they’re calling “Responsive Hidden Switches,” which basically means they’ve hidden the controls into the interior in a way that still makes sense. Sort of like if minimalism had actual UX training. Also, the “Sensory Concierge” is in there—think seat comfort, climate, lighting, all dialed in to whoever’s riding shotgun (or stretched out in the back).

Rear Seat Luxury Elevated with the Executive Package

Speaking of which—yeah, the rear seats are where it gets borderline indulgent. If you go for the Executive Package, you get power-reclining seats, an ottoman setup for the passenger side, and massage functions. Not bad for a car that used to be more about quiet rides to dentist appointments.

Hybrid and Full Electric Options Under the Hood

As for what’s under the sheet metal, there’s a hybrid, and—finally—a fully electric version. No big horsepower figures yet, but Lexus is promising better dynamics and a stiffer platform. It’s not trying to out-Tesla Tesla, but it doesn’t have to. Lexus ES buyers aren’t chasing lap times—they want quiet, comfort, and now, a cleaner footprint.

Global Rollout Begins Mid-2026

Rollout starts mid-2026, and it’s going global. Which makes sense—the Lexus ES is kind of a stealth favorite in markets like North America and China. Always has been the “quietly reliable” one in the family. Now it looks like it wants to be the stylish sibling, too.

The 2026 ES Finally Finds Its Identity in the EV Era

Bottom line: Lexus didn’t just update the Lexus ES—they gave it a reason to exist in the next era. EV or not, it’s finally got some presence.

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