Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the all-new 2026 Lexus ES 350e—positioned as a potential “Japanese S-Class”—focusing on all your requested categories from performance and safety to pricing and customer impressions.
Key Takeaways
- First-ever fully electric ES model (ES 350e) joins the lineup alongside hybrid variants.
- Significantly upgraded in luxury, size, and tech—comparable to a Lexus LS or Mercedes E-Class/S-Class.
- Competitive electric range (up to 685 km) and cutting-edge safety.
- Focused on sustainability, design elegance, and comfort.
Overview of the 2026 Lexus ES 350e
- Debut: 2025 Auto Shanghai.
- Platform: All-new e-TNGA EV architecture for BEV models.
- Variants:
- ES 300h / 350h Hybrid
- ES 350e (FWD EV, ~685 km range)
- ES 500e (AWD EV, ~610 km range)
Key Features to Expect
- Hidden touch haptic switches
- 14-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Mark Levinson surround system (optional)
- “Bamboo wave” 3D-printed interior elements
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite
Design Updates and Innovations
- Exterior:
- Bolder Lexus spindle grille with lighting accents.
- Extended wheelbase and coupe-like roofline.
- Interior:
- Minimalist luxury with floating center console and “Hidden Tech” haptics.
- Ambient lighting and premium trim options.
Performance and Range Enhancements
- ES 350e:
- FWD | 224 DIN hp (165 kW)
- Range: up to 685 km (CLTC)
- ES 500e:
- AWD | 343 DIN hp (252 kW)
- Range: ~610 km
Battery Life and Charging Options
- Exact kWh specs not yet public.
- Expected DC fast charging (20–80% in ~30 min).
- AC charging with wallbox and home options.
- Battery management system with pre-conditioning and heat pump.
Acceleration and Handling
- 0–100 km/h:
- ES 500e: est. 5.5–6.0 seconds
- ES 350e: est. 7.5 seconds
- Quiet, plush ride with adaptive suspension.
- Likely includes Drive Mode Select, regenerative braking.
Safety Features
- Lexus Safety System+ (latest gen):
- Pre-Collision System with pedestrian, bike, scooter detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Blind Spot Monitor (detects motorcycles/bikes)
- Advanced Park (auto-park assist)
- Front Cross Traffic Alert
Crash-Test Ratings and Safety Awards
- Expected 5-star safety rating (EURO NCAP / NHTSA), based on past ES models and Lexus safety track record.
Interior Comfort and Technology
- Longer dimensions boost rear legroom significantly.
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 14-inch infotainment screen
- Heated/ventilated seats, panoramic roof, digital key
Infotainment System Improvements
- Latest Lexus Interface OS
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Integrated voice assistant
- Over-the-air updates (OTA)
Space and Cargo Capacity
- Longer body = more trunk and cabin space.
- Trunk size not finalized, but expected around 475–500 L.
- Split-folding rear seats retained.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
- Built using renewable energy at Lexus facilities.
- Reduction in carbon footprint via:
- Use of eco-friendly interior materials (3D printed bamboo).
- High-recyclability