Toyota has unveiled the eighth generation of its luxury sedan, the Lexus ES, at the Shanghai Auto Show, marking the most significant update in the model’s history.
The iconic spindle grille has been retired, and the ES has undergone a comprehensive redesign, growing in size and, for the first time, offering fully electric powertrains.
A new design language
The first noticeable change is the front end. The once-polarizing grille is gone, replaced by a more rounded and minimalist front with a clean, futuristic look, especially in the electric versions. Hybrids still feature a subtle air intake at the bottom, but all variants share a more subdued and modern appearance.
The design draws clear inspiration from the LF-ZL concept car and Lexus’s own electric models like the RZ and RX. The new ES adopts a fastback silhouette with angular details and deep panels, distinguishing it from its German counterparts.
The new generation is not only more aesthetically pleasing but also larger. The wheelbase has increased by 80 mm to 2,950 mm, and the overall length now measures 5,140 mm, an increase of 165 mm, making the ES one of the largest models in its class.
Minimalist interior
Inside, Lexus has pressed the reset button. The traditional design has been replaced with an almost button-free interior focusing on screens and clean lines.
A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard, along with a 14-inch infotainment screen. Some variants even offer a separate touchscreen for the passenger. A new “L-E-X-U-S” logo on the steering wheel replaces the classic emblem, and modern materials like bamboo wood are available.
The overall ambiance exudes Scandinavian-inspired minimalism combined with Japanese precision.
Electric powertrains with up to 343 hp
The most significant news is undoubtedly the introduction of fully electric versions.
Previously, the ES was only available with gasoline or hybrid engines, but now Lexus takes the full step with two electric powertrains. Buyers can choose between the front-wheel-drive ES 350e with 224 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and offering a range of up to 483 km (according to the optimistic Chinese CLTC cycle). For those seeking more performance and all-wheel drive, the ES 500e delivers 343 hp from dual electric motors, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, with a slightly reduced range of 379 km.
Hybrid options remain
For those not yet ready to transition to electric vehicles, the model lineup still includes hybrids. The base version in selected markets features a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 194 hp and front-wheel drive. The more powerful 2.5-liter ES 350h with all-wheel drive and 244 hp accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds.
Additionally, the ES 300h hybrid variant is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 215 hp. This setup offers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving up to 44 mpg combined.
Expected in Europe
The Lexus ES is expected to arrive in Europe soon, including the Danish market, in its electric version. While the battery size has not been officially disclosed, it is speculated that it may share the same 77 kWh battery used in the RZ series/Toyota BZ4X. The ES will compete against models like the Audi A6 e-Tron, Mercedes-EQE, and BMW i5.
