Lexus has officially unveiled the all-new, eighth-generation ES at the Shanghai Motor Show, marking the next step in the brand’s electrification strategy. A global rollout of the new ES is scheduled to begin in mid-2026.
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Originally launched in 1989 alongside the LS flagship sedan, the ES has become one of Lexus’s core models. It is known for its quiet ride, comfort, and spacious interior. It is currently sold in over 80 countries and regions.
The new ES is part of Lexus’s broader push toward electrification. In 2024, electrified vehicles—including hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs)—accounted for 52% of Lexus’s global sales. The ES is the second of three new BEV models scheduled for release by March 2026 and is part of a brand transformation that will culminate with a new Lexus vision to be revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2025.
The new ES will be offered with HEV and BEV powertrains built on the TNGA GA-K platform. Lexus says this multi-pathway approach addresses diverse mobility needs while contributing to carbon neutrality.
Design-wise, the ES draws on the LF-ZC concept, signaling a new direction in Lexus styling. The sedan features a sleek silhouette with aerodynamic proportions and a minimalist interior focused on visibility and openness. Two new technologies debut with this model: the world’s first responsive hidden switches that integrate physical controls into the cabin and the Sensory Concierge system, which personalizes climate, lighting, and fragrance settings.
Key improvements include enhanced structural rigidity for better ride quality and handling, upgraded multimedia connectivity, and the latest Lexus Safety System+ package.
Kohei Chiashi, Chief Engineer of the ES, said the goal was to redefine the sedan by retaining traditional strengths—such as a low center of gravity and high body rigidity—while introducing modern electrification technologies. Development occurred at Toyota’s Technical Center in Shimoyama, where cross-functional teams worked together to refine the vehicle.
The all-new Lexus ES aims to combine dynamic performance with comfort and quietness, setting the stage for the next generation of Lexus vehicles.
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