2026 Lexus ES EV: 482-Mile Range Confirmed by EPA

【PCauto】The debut of the new Lexus ES at the Shanghai Auto Show in China is a significant event, marking the official commencement of Lexus' electrification journey. Lexus announced at the show that the ES would discontinue its gasoline-powered models, with future iterations offering only hybrid and all-electric versions.

The current Lexus ES has been available since 2018 and the upgrade is indeed needed. The 2026 Lexus ES EV represents a major iteration, with a completely different exterior design from the current ES.

The 2026 Lexus ES EV adopts new design elements, drawing inspiration from the all-electric concept vehicle LF-ZC to create the all-new spindle-shaped front face, which is highly recognizable. The front lines naturally extend from the bonnet to the four corners of the bumper, giving the vehicle a low and sleek visual effect.

The side of ES EV adds a crease to show a distinct sense of technology. The impressive full-width taillight design is deeply impressive, both enhancing the vehicle's recognizability and optimizing aerodynamic performance.

The increase in body length and wheelbase of the 2026 Lexus ES EV not only improves the vehicle's appearance but also benefits the battery integration and rear passenger space optimization.

Compared with previous models, the 2026 Lexus ES EV has larger central console display. Its cabin adopts a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher-end models add another 14-inch display in front of the front passenger. The vehicle system presents the latest Lexus interface, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

What's special is that the 2026 Lexus ES EV uses 3D printing technology for the interior door panels, inspired by the natural flowing texture of bamboo. Combined with ambient lighting, the technology creates a warm atmosphere . The pioneering bamboo translucent decorative panel process, paired with a multi-sensory function, can change in sync with the light, music, and fragrance.

The extended wheelbase increases the comfort of the rear seats, and options in the executive package such as the massage function, passenger side footstool, and ventilated seats improve the luxury of the rear cabin.​

In terms of performance, the ES350e front-wheel-drive variant delivers 221 horsepower, accelerating from 0-62 mph (0-99.7 km/h) in 8.9 seconds. Equipped with 19-inch wheels, it achieves an estimated range of 300 miles.

The ES500e is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers 338 horsepower, accelerating from 0-62 mph (0-99.7 km/h) in just 5.9 seconds, with an EPA-estimated range of 482 km. Lexus' Direct4 system actively manages front and rear axle torque distribution to further enhance traction and handling.

In terms of safety configurations, the 2026 ES becomes the first model equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, offering advanced driver assistance functions with improvements in adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and emergency braking. A 360-degree camera system and blind spot monitoring come as standard equipment.

Currently, the 2026 Lexus ES EV plans to be first launched in Japan in the first quarter of 2026, then in North America in the second half of the year, and in the fourth quarter it will be launched in other countries and regions. The starting price of the Lexus ES EV is expected to be close to RM234,520, and the ES500e will be more expensive.