New Generation Lexus ES Makes its Debut at Shanghai Auto Show, with Hybrid and All-Electric Models

【PCauto】On April 23, at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, Lexus officially unveiled the new generation ES. As a key model in Lexus's electrification strategy, the new ES will be available in both hybrid and fully electric variants.

ES 350h (Hybrid Version): Equipped with the fourth-generation THS II hybrid system, the ES 350h combines a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor, ensuring smooth and quiet power delivery while maintaining fuel efficiency, thus upholding Lexus’s signature luxury driving experience.

ES 350e (Fully Electric Version): Built on the new e-TNGA pure electric architecture, the ES 350e boasts a CLTC range exceeding 600 km and supports 800V fast-charging technology, allowing for a 200 km range increase with just a 10-minute charge.

ES 500e (Electric Performance Flagship): Featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the ES 500e accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. It is paired with the DIRECT4 electronic dynamic AWD system to meet the demands of high-end users seeking driving excitement.

In terms of design, the new generation Lexus ES leans toward performance and sportiness, integrating "coupé aesthetics" with the essence of a business flagship for the first time.

The ES's iconic spindle grille is enhanced with a three-dimensional design for greater visual impact, while the split front headlight clusters are embedded within exaggerated air intakes. Complemented by the brand’s classic “L” shaped daytime running light strip, this creates a sharp front profile.

From the side, the sleek coupé-like silhouette flows from the A-pillar to the rear, and an L-shaped black trim piece extends from the front fender to the rear door handles.

The rising ducktail spoiler mirrors the continuous taillight design, while the diffused shape of the rear bumper further emphasizes the sporty DNA.

The interior layout centers on technology and luxury, featuring a 14-inch central touchscreen and AR-HUD augmented reality navigation. It supports the voice recognition feature of the smart assistant "Hello, Lexus," enhancing the human-machine interaction experience. For the first time, the rear seats come with ventilation and heating functions, electric adjustments, and a 220V power outlet.

Choosing China as the global debut location for the new ES model underscores that the Lexus ES is one of the best-selling models in the Chinese imported car market. Since 2017, it has remained the sales champion in the imported vehicle segment in China, and by the first quarter of 2025, sales of the Lexus ES in the Chinese market reached 25,166 units.

Moreover, China has become a core market for the development of new energy vehicles, with the penetration rate of new energy vehicles exceeding 30% in 2023. The unveiling of the new generation ES not only represents an upgrade of a model but also signals Lexus's commitment to establishing an electric vehicle factory in Shanghai, China.

Two months ago, Toyota announced a collaboration with the Shanghai municipal government to establish a wholly-owned Lexus electric vehicle and battery R&D and production base in Shanghai, with plans to commence production in 2027. On April 22, the signing ceremony for the related cooperation agreement was held, marking the formal launch of the project.

The factory will have a total investment of 14.6 billion RMB, with an initial area of 1,692 acres and a planned annual production capacity of 100,000 units in its first phase.

Leveraging Shanghai's mature supply chain network, logistic systems, and talent pool, Lexus will accelerate its electrification transformation, aiding in cost control and enhancing product competitiveness, thus supporting its global electrification strategy.