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The 2026 Lexus ES continues to uphold its reputation as a quietly confident luxury sedan. With a balance of premium comfort, refined driving dynamics, and a growing emphasis on hybrid efficiency, Lexus delivers a refreshed version of its best-selling sedan that feels both modern and mature. If you’re considering a midsize luxury car that doesn’t scream for attention but delivers across the board, the 2026 ES might just be your next car.
In this detailed review, we cover the reviews, trim levels and pricing, and showcase photos of the updated 2026 ES lineup.
What’s New in the 2026 Lexus ES?
For 2026, the Lexus ES lineup receives several notable updates aimed at keeping it fresh in a segment now crowded with tech-forward luxury sedans. The biggest changes include:
- A revised front fascia and grille for a sleeker, more refined look
- Upgraded infotainment with a 14-inch touchscreen and new software
- Enhanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 driver assistance suite
- An improved hybrid system with better efficiency and smoother transitions
- New color options and trim upgrades, especially for F Sport models
These changes aim to modernize the ES while maintaining the classic Lexus values of comfort, reliability, and elegant simplicity.
2026 Lexus ES Interior: A Luxurious Sanctuary
Lexus continues to lead in interior design by blending intuitive controls with luxurious materials. The 2026 ES sees upgraded upholstery, open-pore wood trims, and aluminum accents across most trims.
Highlights inside the cabin include:
- 14-inch touchscreen running the new Lexus Interface software
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Optional Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium sound system
- Heated and ventilated seats, with semi-aniline leather in higher trims
- Panoramic sunroof (available on Luxury and Ultra Luxury trims)
- Redesigned digital gauge cluster and customizable ambient lighting
Passenger space is generous, particularly in the rear where legroom rivals that of full-size sedans.
Driving Impressions: Smooth, Quiet, and Capable
Reviews of the 2026 Lexus ES consistently highlight its tranquil ride quality and sound isolation. Whether equipped with the standard 4-cylinder, the powerful V6, or the hybrid powertrain, the ES delivers smooth acceleration and poised handling.
- ES 250 AWD: 2.5L inline-4 with 203 horsepower. A solid base option with standard all-wheel drive.
- ES 350 FWD: 3.5L V6 with 302 horsepower. Offers strong acceleration and a more engaging drive.
- ES 300h Hybrid: 2.5L inline-4 hybrid with 215 horsepower and 44 mpg combined.
Critics especially praise the hybrid model for its efficiency, smooth transitions between gas and electric modes, and improved regenerative braking feel for 2026.
F Sport Models: More Than Just Looks
For buyers who want a sportier experience without sacrificing luxury, the F Sport Design and F Sport Handling trims deliver. These models add:
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Adaptive variable dampers (F Sport Handling only)
- Paddle shifters and a drive mode selector
- Aggressive styling cues, including blacked-out wheels and mesh grille
- Unique color options like Ultra White and Nightfall Sapphire
While not a full performance sedan, the F Sport ES feels tighter in corners and adds a hint of excitement without sacrificing comfort.
Safety and Technology: Always Thinking Ahead
Every 2026 Lexus ES comes with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes:
- Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Top trims also get access to Advanced Drive, Lexus’s semi-autonomous system that allows for hands-free driving on highways under certain conditions.
Trim Levels and Pricing: Something for Everyone
The 2026 ES is available in multiple trims, each tailored to a different buyer:
| Trim | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Estimated MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| ES 250 | 2.5L I4 | AWD | $44,000 |
| ES 350 | 3.5L V6 | FWD | $45,500 |
| ES 300h | Hybrid I4 | FWD | $46,000 |
| ES 300h Luxury | Hybrid | FWD | $49,000 |
| ES 350 F Sport Design | V6 | FWD | $51,000 |
| ES 300h Ultra Luxury | Hybrid | FWD | $52,000 |
| ES 350 F Sport Handling | V6 | FWD | $54,000 |
These prices include generous standard features, making the ES one of the best values in the luxury sedan class.
2026 Lexus ES vs. the Competition
How does the 2026 ES stack up against its rivals?
| Model | Starting Price | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Lexus ES 300h | $46,000 | Best fuel economy in class |
| BMW 5 Series | $58,000 | Sharper handling |
| Audi A6 | $57,000 | Sleek design and tech |
| Genesis G80 | $54,000 | Value-packed with more standard features |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class | $60,000 | Classic luxury feel, high brand prestige |
The Lexus ES remains the go-to for buyers who prioritize comfort, efficiency, and long-term reliability over sportiness or brand clout.
2026 Lexus ES Specifications
| Category | ES 250 AWD | ES 350 FWD | ES 300h Hybrid FWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Inline-4 | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L Inline-4 + Electric Motor |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 302 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft | N/A (Hybrid system combined) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | E-CVT |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| 0–60 mph (est.) | ~8.6 seconds | ~6.6 seconds | ~8.0 seconds |
| Top Speed (est.) | 130 mph | 131 mph | 112 mph |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 25 city / 34 hwy | 22 city / 32 hwy | 44 city / 43 hwy |
| Length | 195.9 in | 195.9 in | 195.9 in |
| Width | 73.4 in | 73.4 in | 73.4 in |
| Height | 56.9 in | 56.9 in | 56.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.0 in | 113.0 in | 113.0 in |
| Curb Weight (est.) | 3,780 lbs | 3,690 lbs | 3,730 lbs |
| Infotainment System | 14″ touchscreen, Lexus Interface | Same | Same |
| Audio (Standard) | 10-speaker premium audio | 10-speaker premium audio | 10-speaker premium audio |
| Optional Audio | Mark Levinson 17-speaker system | Available | Available |
| Safety Suite | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 |
Final Verdict: The ES Still Does It Best
The 2026 Lexus ES is a luxury sedan that makes sense. It doesn’t shout; it whispers quality. It doesn’t chase trends; it refines its core strengths. With an efficient hybrid option, luxurious features, and a reputation for bulletproof reliability, the new ES proves you don’t need to spend $60,000 or more to feel truly pampered behind the wheel.
Whether you’re an executive commuting in comfort or a hybrid-conscious driver looking for elegance, the 2026 Lexus ES should be on your shortlist.
2026 Lexus ES Videos
2026 Lexus ES Photos
