Lexus has launched what is the most radical change ever brought about in a car in the ES sedan series with the eighth-generation versions of these vehicles, which will change the concept of luxury cars in Europe with the first core car from the manufacturer to support both hybrid and battery-electric variants. With its launch at Auto Shanghai, these new cars will change the look of luxury cars in Europe with sales in 2026.
Clean tech design philosophy transforms traditional sedan aesthetics
The new ES boasts the “Clean Tech x Elegance” design concept, which is revolutionary for Lexus, a radical departure from the usual design paradigms used in luxury sedans. This design philosophy combines functionality with emotional design and uses a minimalist approach inspired by the next-generation concept car, the LF-ZC model car concept. It sports a spindle design with electrification, with elegance personified in this luxury car model.
Dimensional improvements have increased both visual appeal and functionality, with a total length increased by 165mm and an 80mm longer wheelbase than the predecessor model. Additionally, the distance separating the front-to-rear-seated pair has been increased by 77mm, to 1,102mm, resulting in a much roomier interior space. The elevated positions of the seating surfaces make entry and exit easier, with increased visibility afforded to all persons within the upgraded surroundings of the vehicle cabin.
It is designed with a new Lexus design concept called “Clean Tech x Elegance,” according to the press release issued by the car manufacturer with emphasis on the brand’s dedication to “Sophisticated Minimalism.”
The dual pathway plus powertrain strategy provides unparalleled options
European customers will be able to take advantage of a broad portfolio of Lexus’ electrification solutions, including self-charging hybrid and battery-electric models, available across the ES range. The ES 300h will come with a newly designed 2.5-liter hybrid engine delivering 201 DIN hp/148 kW, paired with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions available in Western Europe. Customers in Eastern Europe will be treated to the ES 350h with 247 DIN hp/182 kW engine power within the same flexible drivetrain range.
Battery-electric versions come with the ES 350e front-wheel-drive variant delivering 224 DIN hp / 165 kW and the top-of-the-line ES 500e all-wheel-drive variant producing 343 DIN hp / 252 kW. The electric versions make use of Lexus’s sophisticated eAxle technology, which combines power control units and transaxles designed with optimal weight distribution in mind. This helps the high-capacity battery placed below the floor reduce the center of gravity with efficient use of space.
DIRECT4 intelligent all-wheel drive elevates electric performance capabilities
The ES 500e features an intelligent electronic AWD system called DIRECT4 by Lexus, which provides a continuous adjustment of torque delivery from 0 to 100% split among the four wheels, according to road and driving conditions, among other factors. This sophisticated AWD solution is capable of adjusting torque delivery split from 100:0 up to 0:100 ratio, with assistance from acceleration sensors, wheel sensors, and steering angle data, among other parameters.
Integration of advanced technology enhances the luxurious sedan experience
The new ES introduces the use of Lexus’ new ‘Hidden Tech’ switch design, which symbolizes the first use of such technology by the brand and reflects the concept of ‘Omotenashi’ in Japanese hospitality. It symbolizes a technology with revolutionary switch designs that are invisible under the car’s dashboard when turned off and only come ‘alive’ when the driver turns on the car’s ignition switch. This design gives a tactile sensation with a smooth touch panel design.
The eighth-generation Lexus ES is a defining step in luxury car design, meeting the need for refinement with the best use of electrification technology available in the market today. Lexus owners in Europe can look forward to an unparalleled level of design sophistication, engine options, and technological advancements with the incoming launch of this new ES model in Spring 2026.
