All the manufacturer is saying so far is that the new ES “refines advanced electrification technologies.” Here's what that could mean.
- Lexus is moving the ES upmarket with its new generation, which could replace the LS as its global flagship.
- The new ES will be unveiled at the Shanghai motor show next week, with a stronger focus on electrification.
- Lexus could offer it with either electric or hybrid power options.
The Lexus ES has always been a strong seller. Introduced in 1989, it's always been the mainstream Lexus sedan, but never the one that got the most attention. That may be changing. Lexus just announced it will reveal the eighth-generation ES on April 23 at the Shanghai motor show, which it calls “a global flagship model." That means the ES may be moving up in the world and—maybe—taking the LS' place as the big sedan in the lineup.
The announcement added that the new ES “refines advanced electrification technologies and pursues further evolution of its hallmark quietness and ride comfort.” While the emphasis on ride comfort is not surprising, the focus on electrification seems to hint that the new ES could come not only as a hybrid but also as a fully electric vehicle.
Lexus ES Teaser
Lexus hasn’t said what platform it will use for the new ES, but looking at the dark side profile teaser shot, it still looks like a front-wheel-drive-based vehicle. There doesn’t appear to be enough room for a longitudinal engine between the front axle and A-pillar, so our best guess is that the new model will keep the nameplate’s traditional front- or all-wheel-drive configuration.
It could be underpinned by an updated version of the TNGA-K platform used in models like the Camry and Crown or the seventh-gen Lexus ES Toyota has not announced plans to make their platform suitable for electric vehicles, but they are expected to introduce models in this size category to expand their offerings. a much more robust electric vehicle selection by the decade's end.
It has only an electric sedan available nowadays. the bZ3 , which is a China-exclusive model produced domestically via the Toyota-FAW joint venture. It’s constructed using the e-TNGA architecture, linking it to other electric vehicles such as the bZ4X , Lexus RZ, Subaru Solterra and Trailseeker .
The preview image showcases what appears to be the slickest version of the ES yet, featuring an even more prominent fastback-styled back end. While you can discern the outline of the trunklid, making it evident that it remains a sedan, referring to such a silhouette as a traditional three-box design might seem somewhat misleading. The sides bear a strong resemblance to The latest Audi A6 E-Tron .
The updated ES model boasts a slightly downturned nose with striking LED accents positioned just above the concealed headlights towards the bottom of the grille. At the back, the vehicle features an extensive continuous taillight strip encircling the rear section, complemented by distinct lines highlighting its principal styling elements.
Despite the fact that the United States remains its biggest customer base, Lexus probably truly desires the success of the ES in China. This could explain why they plan to unveil it at an event in Shanghai since China continues to hold significant importance for them. Additionally, Lexus verified plans to introduce the updated ES model across Europe. While they haven't officially stated their intentions regarding availability in America yet, past performance indicates strong sales; last year saw 18,481 units delivered annually—a rise of about 50 percent from 2023. Given how substantial the demand has historically been within the US, we would find it surprising if this trend doesn’t continue into next year, ideally featuring a completely electrified drivetrain.
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