The Lexus ES is getting a major redesign. Here’s what we know so far

Lexus is revving up to take the covers of the all-new ES—proof that the brand is still fully invested in the sedan market as many in the luxury sector hedge their bets on SUVs.    

The details: The new 2026 Lexus ES—the eighth generation of the midsize sedan—will be unveiled April 23, at Auto Shanghai, though the Japanese automaker is keeping most of the details about the sedan under wraps until the reveal.   

• Lexus has indicated that the new ES will feature “new and advanced electrification technologies and deliver even higher levels of the comfort and quiet performance” long associated with the sedan. 

• A video tease hints that the latest design reiteration of the sedan will be a lot sleeker than the current model—with features like redesigned LED headlights, a new take on Lexus’ signature grille, and faux vents.

Worth noting: The ES has long been one of Lexus best-selling vehicles, surpassing 3 million sales in 2023—33 years after the ES helped launch the Lexus brand in the U.S.

Between the lines: The long-standing Lexus ES is an anomaly of sorts in the current market, with most luxury automakers turning to SUVs to boost sales. However, given Lexus’ dominance in the market, the brand can afford to continue to wage its bets on its cars as well.

• Lexus topped all non-Tesla luxury brands in retail registrations for four quarters straight (Q4 2023 - Q3 2024), as calculated by S&P Global. 

• The luxury brand accounts for over 50% of new vehicles registered in the upper midsize luxury utility segment, due to the ongoing appeal of the RX, one of Lexus’ other long standing retail draws. 

• Lexus has also dominated the luxury hybrid market, which includes 20% of all the brand’s RX registrations being hybrid models.   

Bottom line: The upcoming reveal of the new ES not only signals Lexus’ willingness to build on its legacy in the car segment—it’s also indicative of how the luxury automaker is enhancing its powertrain offerings.

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