From Car and Driver · · 1m 30s
Lexus ES Hybrid 2026: Refinement Meets Innovation
Lexus 2026 ES Hybrid balances electric innovation with classic luxury comfort.
In brief
Lexus 2026 ES Hybrid balances electric innovation with classic luxury comfort. Lexus 2026 ES Hybrid maintains its core luxury appeal while introducing electric powertrain without sacrificing comfort. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
Lexus ES 2026 Evolution
Lexus updates its flagship sedan with electric powertrain while keeping core luxury features.
Hybrid Powertrain Details
Sixth-generation Toyota hybrid system delivers 244 horsepower with improved electric propulsion.
All-Wheel Drive Option
First all-wheel drive version of ES hybrid with rear electric motor for improved traction.
Performance Metrics
60 mph in 6.6 seconds with 4145 pounds weight and 244 horsepower combined output.
Fuel Efficiency
44 mpg combined with all-wheel drive and 46 mpg with front-wheel drive for luxury sedan class.
Interior Design
Touchscreen interface with tactile controls for climate and temperature adjustments.
Pricing and Options
Base price $52,495 with options package adding $1220 for convenience features.
Ride Quality
Soft suspension with good body control for comfortable highway driving.
Real-World Fuel Economy
37 mpg observed in real-world driving versus 45 mpg for previous model in same test.
Market Position
More affordable than BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-class despite hybrid features.
Design Changes
Taller profile and more angular styling with roofline tapering toward short trunk lid.
Hybrid Sales Strategy
Expected to make 80 percent of ES sales in U.S. market with hybrid as volume seller.
Verdict
Lexus maintains core luxury appeal while introducing electric powertrain without sacrificing comfort.
The short version
Lexus 2026 ES Hybrid maintains its core luxury appeal while introducing electric powertrain without sacrificing comfort.
