The all-new 2026 Lexus ES has been unveiled for Australia, bringing battery-electric power to the luxury sedan nameplate for the first time alongside a revised hybrid option.
Entering its eighth generation, the Lexus ES grows in size, adopts a fresh design language and introduces a significantly upgraded cabin packed with new technology and safety features. Australian pricing starts from $75,000 before on-road costs, with the electric ES 350e and ES 500e set to launch first, followed by the hybrid ES 300h later in 2026.
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2026 Lexus ES price in Australia
| Model | Price (before on-road costs) |
| Lexus ES 300h Luxury | $75,000 |
| Lexus ES 350e Sports Luxury | $77,000 |
| Lexus ES 300h Luxury + Enhancement Pack | $82,000 |
| Lexus ES 500e Sports Luxury AWD | $84,000 |
Battery-electric Lexus ES available for the first time
Headlining the new range is the first-ever electric Lexus ES.
The entry-level ES 350e uses a single front-mounted electric motor producing 165kW, while the flagship ES 500e employs a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup delivering a combined 252kW, making it the most powerful ES ever sold.
Both EV variants use a 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery. Lexus says the battery supports up to 22kW AC charging and 150kW DC fast charging, with a 10-80 per cent recharge taking as little as 28 minutes under ideal conditions.
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Hybrid power remains part of the lineup
Customers not ready to switch to full electric power will still be able to choose the Lexus ES 300h hybrid.
The new-generation hybrid combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with Lexus’ latest sixth-generation hybrid system, including a new eAxle and lithium-ion battery pack. Total system output is rated at 144kW.
Lexus says the updated powertrain delivers improved efficiency, refinement and performance compared with the outgoing model.
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Larger dimensions and a redesigned interior
Built on an updated GA-K platform, the new Lexus ES is larger in every dimension than before and has been designed to offer more interior space while retaining traditional sedan proportions.
Inside, the cabin receives a complete overhaul with a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.0-inch central touchscreen running Lexus’ latest Arene operating system.
One of the more unusual additions is a set of responsive hidden switches integrated into the dashboard and steering wheel. These controls appear when needed and provide tactile feedback despite their touch-sensitive design.
Other highlights include a new steering wheel featuring a ‘LEXUS’ wordmark, redesigned front seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, embedded navigation and voice controls.
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More safety and driver assistance technology
The new ES introduces the latest fourth-generation Lexus Safety System+ package.
New features include an upgraded Adaptive High-beam System, enhanced Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and map-linked driving assistance that can automatically adjust vehicle speed for certain intersections and road conditions.
Lexus says 15 existing safety functions have also been improved compared with the previous-generation model.
2026 Lexus ES standard features
The Lexus ES 300h Luxury comes standard with:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- LED lighting
- Panoramic roof
- NuLux upholstery
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated front seats
- Smart entry and start
- 10-speaker audio system
- Lexus Safety System+
Stepping up to the ES 350e Sports Luxury adds:
- 21-inch alloy wheels
- Semi-aniline leather-accented seats
- Adaptive Variable Suspension
- Easy-close doors
- Radiant front-seat heating
- Rear door sunshades
- Dual wireless phone chargers
- High-definition Adaptive High-beam System
When will the 2026 Lexus ES arrive?
The battery-electric Lexus ES 350e and ES 500e are scheduled to launch in Australia first, with the hybrid ES 300h joining the range later in 2026.
The arrival of the new ES marks a significant shift for Lexus, as the brand expands its EV portfolio while continuing to offer hybrid power for buyers who still prefer a petrol-assisted drivetrain.
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