Back in the day, the Lexus ES was accused of being a "Camry with a cellphone". Eight generations later and things have have changed a lot (but not completely): the new ES just revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show still shares its bones with Toyota's large sedan, but the platform has been redeveloped to accommodate pure-electric power for the first time.
Lexus says the ES is the second of 3 new BEVs to be launched before March 2026 (after the new RZ). It also promises a "comprehensive reimagining of the Lexus brand" at the Japan Mobility Show in October this year.
Despite its focus on SUVs, Lexus says there's still plenty of potential in sedans. Traditionally structured with three distinct sections - engine or motor, cabin, and boot - the sedan offers "key engineering advantages, including high body rigidity and a low centre of gravity", says the company.
The ES will continue in hybrid (HEV) form, with the 300h being offered in 2.0-litre or 2.5-litre (145kW/148kW) versions depending on market, or a 350h with the larger engine (182kW). Both powertrains will be available in FWD or AWD.
The pure-electric ES will be called 350e (FWD) or 500e (AWD), with power outputs of 165kW/252kW.
Other new features for ES include what Lexus is calling the "world's first Responsive Hidden Switches", with select controls fully integrated into the cabin architecture, and a "Sensory Concierge" that synchronises illumination, climate and fragrance to make the cabin experience just-so.
ES is one of Lexus's longest-running models, with the first generation launched alongside the groundbreaking LS (which was not based on a Camry) back in 1989. It is sold in over 80 countries.
Lexus New Zealand has confirmed the new ES is a starter for the local market in 2026, but is yet to confirm powertrain choice and specification.