Lexus ES: Luxury car buyers in India are about to see a fresh entrant in the premium sedan segment. Lexus has confirmed that the new-generation Lexus ES will launch in India on March 20, 2026. The updated model arrives less than a year after its global debut and brings major improvements in design, technology, and performance. The Lexus ES has long been known for offering a comfortable, quiet, and refined driving experience. With the upcoming model, Lexus aims to enhance those strengths while introducing a modern design and more advanced features.
Lexus ES Bold and Modern Exterior Design
The upcoming Lexus ES adopts a completely refreshed design language that looks more futuristic and sporty compared to the outgoing model.
One of the most noticeable changes is the redesigned front fascia. The traditional large spindle grille has been replaced with a more minimalist layout, giving the sedan a cleaner and more contemporary appearance.
Key exterior highlights include:
- Slim Z-shaped LED lights that integrate daytime running lamps and indicators
- Main headlamp units positioned lower in the bumper with gloss-black trim
- Smaller lower grille with diamond-pattern styling elements
- A strong shoulder line running across the side profile
- New alloy wheel designs for a more premium stance
- Sporty sloping roofline that enhances the aerodynamic look
- Flush door handles for a cleaner exterior finish
- Connected LED tail lamps across the rear
- Illuminated LEXUS lettering replacing the traditional badge
These updates give the sedan a sharper and more distinctive road presence, making it look more modern than the current version.
Also Read
Lexus ES Larger Dimensions for Better Space
The new Lexus ES has grown in size, which should result in improved interior comfort and better rear-seat space.
Updated dimensions include:
- 165 mm longer than the previous model
- 55 mm wider body
- Over 110 mm taller
- 80 mm increase in wheelbase
The longer wheelbase is especially important for the rear passengers, as it should provide more legroom and a more relaxed seating experience.
Minimalist Interior with Advanced Technology
Inside the cabin, Lexus has redesigned the dashboard to create a more modern and uncluttered environment. The previous model relied heavily on physical buttons, but the new ES moves many functions to digital controls.
The cabin focuses on simplicity, technology, and comfort while maintaining Lexus’ reputation for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Interior features include:
- 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with over-the-air (OTA) updates
- 12.3-inch digital driver display
- Premium Mark Levinson sound system
- Electrochromic panoramic glass roof
- Powered front seats with memory function
- Reclining rear seats with Boss Mode for extra rear legroom
- Touch-based controls on the center console
- Physical buttons on the steering wheel for easier access
Lexus has also focused on improving cabin quietness. The new model features better door sealing and enhanced sound-insulating glass in the front doors to reduce road and wind noise.
Hybrid Powertrain Expected for India
The current Lexus ES sold in India comes with a hybrid powertrain, and the new model is expected to continue with a similar setup.
Globally, the sedan is offered with multiple hybrid configurations.
Hybrid engine options include:
- 2.0-litre petrol hybrid producing 197 hp
- 2.5-litre petrol hybrid producing 201 hp
- ES 350h version with 247 hp output
All hybrid variants are paired with an e-CVT automatic transmission. In international markets, these models are available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
Fully Electric Variants Available Globally
For the first time, Lexus is also offering the ES with fully electric powertrains in global markets. However, it remains unclear whether these EV versions will launch in India immediately.
Global EV variants include:
ES 350e
- Single electric motor
- Front-wheel drive configuration
- Power output: 224 hp
- Claimed range: around 685 km
- 0–100 km/h in 8.9 seconds
ES 550e
- Dual electric motors with all-wheel drive
- Combined output: 343 hp
- Claimed range: around 610 km
- 0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds
These electric options highlight Lexus’ push toward electrification and could eventually arrive in India depending on market demand.
Expected Price and Market Position
The current Lexus ES in India starts at around ₹62 lakh (ex-showroom). The new-generation model is likely to carry a slightly higher price due to its larger size, new technology, and updated design.
The sedan will continue to position itself as a comfort-focused luxury car, appealing to buyers who prioritize smooth performance, refined interiors, and reliability over aggressive sportiness.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Lexus ES represents a significant upgrade over the outgoing model. With a futuristic design, larger dimensions, improved technology, and hybrid efficiency, the sedan looks ready to strengthen Lexus’ presence in India’s luxury car market. When it launches on March 20, 2026, the new ES will offer buyers a sophisticated alternative to German luxury sedans while maintaining Lexus’ reputation for comfort and refinement.
