Lexus has introduced the eighth-generation ES sedan with the nameplate’s first battery-electric variants. The 2026 ES 350e and ES 500e share a new multi-pathway platform, a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery, and updated interior technology. A hybrid ES 350h will follow later in 2026. The BEV models are expected in dealerships in April with a base MSRP of $47,500.
Highlights
- First electric ES models: The front-wheel-drive ES 350e delivers 307 miles of EPA-estimated range; the all-wheel-drive ES 500e offers 338 combined horsepower via dual motors.
- Multi-pathway platform: A shared architecture supports both BEV and hybrid powertrains, marking a first for the Lexus brand.
- NACS charging port standard: DC fast charging reaches 10–80% in about 28 minutes under ideal conditions at up to 150 kW.
- Pricing from $48,795: The ES 350e Premium starts at $48,795 including destination; the ES 500e Premium AWD begins at $51,795.
Powertrain and Range
The ES 350e uses a single 221-horsepower permanent magnet synchronous motor driving the front wheels. Lexus estimates a 0–60 mph time of 7.4 seconds. With standard 19-inch wheels, the ES 350e carries a 307-mile EPA-estimated range. That figure drops to 292 miles with available 21-inch wheels.
The ES 500e pairs the same 221-hp front motor with a 118-hp rear unit. Combined net output reaches 338 horsepower. Lexus’ DIRECT4 system manages front-to-rear torque distribution between 100:0 and 0:100. The result is a 5.1-second 0–60 mph estimate and standard all-wheel drive.
However, the added hardware reduces range. The ES 500e achieves 276 miles on 19-inch wheels and 272 miles on 21-inch wheels. Both models draw from the same 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the passenger floor.
Charging Infrastructure
Both BEV models feature a North American Charging System (NACS) J3400 charge port. Lexus also includes a CCS-to-NACS adapter, providing access to over 76,000 Level 2 and Level 3 public stations nationwide (driveelectric.gov/stations).
An 11-kW onboard AC charger enables Level 2 charging in approximately seven hours. Under ideal conditions, Level 3 DC fast charging from 10% to 80% takes about 28 minutes at speeds up to 150 kW. A dual-voltage AC charging cable supporting both 120V and 240V inputs is standard.
Additionally, Lexus includes Plug & Charge capability with an active Remote Connect subscription. Battery preconditioning adjusts pack temperature to optimize charging speeds in varying conditions. Apple Maps EV Routing support is also available.
Platform and Design
The multi-pathway platform evolves from the previous ES’ TNGA-K architecture. It accommodates both internal-combustion and all-electric powertrains on a shared body shell. Styling draws from the LF-ZC concept, with L-shaped LED running lights and a wraparound LED Blade taillamp.
Dimensionally, the new ES grows over its predecessor. Wheelbase stretches 3.1 inches, while overall width adds 2.2 inches and length increases 6.5 inches. As a result, rear seat legroom gains 1.4 inches. The BEV models achieve a 0.25 drag coefficient thanks to a smoother front-end design.
Interior and Technology
Every 2026 ES features a 14.0-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen and a 12.3-inch driver display. The system supports dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. An integrated drive recorder is standard on BEV models.
Luxury trims include semi-aniline leather seating, bamboo wood trim, and a 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson surround sound system. Meanwhile, the ES 350e Luxury offers an optional Executive package. It adds power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging rear seats along with a passenger-side ottoman.
Safety Systems
The 2026 ES debuts Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 as standard equipment. The updated suite includes Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Intersection Turn Assist, and an Eco-Run mode for Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Luxury trims also gain Traffic Jam Assist and Lane Change Assist for hands-free driving support in congested conditions.
Pricing
| Model | MSRP (incl. $1,295 DPH) |
|---|---|
| ES 350e Premium | $48,795 |
| ES 500e Premium AWD | $51,795 |
| ES 350e Luxury | $57,195 |
| ES 500e Luxury AWD | $60,195 |
| ES 350h Premium | $50,995 |
| ES 350h Premium AWD | $52,395 |
| ES 350h Premium+ | $55,795 |
| ES 350h Premium+ AWD | $57,195 |
Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
