First Look: The Next-Generation Lexus ES Unveiled at the 2025 Guangzhou Auto Show, Showcasing More Details This Time

【PCauto】The all-new Lexus ES made its debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show. This mid-size luxury sedan holds a significant position in the global market.

The new-generation ES retains the brand's classic elegance while introducing more modern and sporty elements, positioning it for the future transition to hybrid and electric powertrains.

As an important model in the Lexus lineup, the new-generation ES has undergone upgrades in multiple aspects:

· The exterior is lower, wider, and more streamlined, combining a modern sporty feel with the brand's iconic design elements;

· In terms of powertrain, the model will be available with both hybrid (HEV) and fully electric (BEV) versions;

· It is built on the all-new TNGA GA-K platform, which helps balance driving comfort, quietness, and performance.

Exterior of the New Generation Lexus ES

The new-generation Lexus ES continues the brand's elegant design DNA while incorporating more modern and sporty elements. It presents a visual impression of being lower and wider, with more harmonious proportions.

The overall front fascia retains the spindle-shaped grille contour, with distinct designs featured across different powertrain versions. The hybrid version retains the active grille shutter, while the pure electric version is equipped with a closed parametric scale decorative panel, reducing the drag coefficient to 0.26Cd.

The lighting cluster features a split-type star trail matrix design. The upper L-shaped daytime running lights create a sharp contrast with the grille below, lending the front fascia greater refinement and visual depth.

The enlarged air ducts on both sides contribute to a visually lower center of gravity while also enhancing aerodynamic performance.

The side profile further emphasizes the sporty feel and dynamic proportions, featuring a short front overhang and long rear overhang layout. This, combined with hidden door handles and 21-inch low-drag wheels, gives the car a more streamlined stance.

The body dimensions have increased compared to the previous generation, with length extended by 165mm and wheelbase increased by 80mm, resulting in a more spacious interior cabin. The 28° inclination of the D-pillar design balances the coupe aesthetics with ample headroom for rear passengers.

The waistline and the roofline extending towards the rear create a smooth visual flow, imparting a dynamic stance to the car even when stationary.

The rear design boosts recognizability with a full-width OLED taillight incorporating dynamic light curtain effects, ensuring high visibility at night.

The rear bumper features L-shaped chrome trim and a three-dimensional diffuser design, resulting in a stable yet visually engaging appearance. The pure electric version omits the exhaust layout due to its energy characteristics, thereby creating a clear distinction from the hybrid version and reinforcing the sense of technology and futurism.

New Generation Lexus ES Interior

The new-generation Lexus ES interior is built upon the Tazuna driver-centric concept, blending simplicity, luxury, and technology seamlessly.

The high-end model is equipped with a floating dual 12.3-inch screen, while the center console incorporates a Bamboo Layering texture panel. This panel interacts with the ambient lighting through light transmission technology, creating dynamic textures and showcasing unique light and shadow effects.

The Hidden Tech invisible buttons remain completely concealed when the vehicle is off and illuminate upon startup. When combined with the electronic gear shifter and touch-sensitive knobs, they offer simple and intuitive operation while achieving a balance between technology and aesthetic design.

Cabin Comfort Further Upgraded

The seats are crafted from semi-aniline leather and feature exquisite three-dimensional quilting, which lends a high-end appearance.

Both the rear and front passenger seats are equipped with electric leg rests, while all seats feature a massage function, thereby reducing fatigue on long journeys.

The air conditioning system comprises three independent zones and is equipped with a PM0.1-grade filter. Together with double-layer soundproof glass and active noise cancellation, these features ensure a remarkably quiet interior.

ES will offer different powertrain versions, including a pure electric version

Hybrid powertrains available as HEV and PHEV

The hybrid version, expected to be named ES300h, retains the current 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and electric motor hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 160 kW and being paired with an E-CVT transmission.

The ES350h features an upgraded 2.5L THS-IV system, boasting a combined power output increased to 247 hp, WLTC combined fuel consumption of only 4.8L/100km, a full-tank and full-electric comprehensive range exceeding 1200km, and a pure electric range of 60km in urban conditions.

These powertrain systems have necessitated optimizations to the vehicle's front grille (including its opening/closing mechanism), air intake layout, body proportions, and other design aspects, all while maintaining a balance between fuel efficiency and driving performance.

The pure electric versions include the ES350e and ES500e

The ES500e is built on an 800V high-voltage platform and equipped with dual motors and the DIRECT4 intelligent all-wheel-drive system. It produces a maximum power output of 343 hp, accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 5.9 seconds, is fitted with a 100kWh battery pack, and offers a CLTC range of 610km.

As a long-range version, the ES350e achieves a CLTC range of 685km. Both pure electric models support 350kW ultra-fast charging, allowing a 10%-80% charge in just 18 minutes.

The pure electric version features a closed scaly grille and a rear design without exhaust outlets. These elements not only reduce air resistance, thereby improving range, but also create a clear visual distinction from the hybrid version.

The design of mid-size luxury sedans represented by the ES is becoming more youthful

The luxury mid-size car market is currently trending towards youthfulness and sportiness. Competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 are upgrading in areas such as body proportions and headlight designs. With this generation, the Lexus ES strategically incorporates a lower body, through-type taillights, and a distinctive front end to maintain its competitive edge.

The exterior changes of this ES are not merely aesthetic; they reflect Lexus' overall strategy and response to market demands. The low-profile body proportions, sporty lines, and highly technical headlights not only complement the new energy systems but also meet modern consumers' expectations for luxury car aesthetics.