Lexus has redefined the essence of the luxury sedan with the global reveal of the all-new Lexus ES at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition – a bold step forward that marks the arrival of a new generation of electrified motoring excellence.
Since its debut about 30 years ago, the Lexus ES has remained a cornerstone of the brand’s global lineup, widely celebrated for its refined comfort, effortless elegance, and premium craftsmanship. Now, the eighth-generation ES ushers in a new era of design, performance, and electrification – setting fresh benchmarks in comfort, technology, and luxury driving experience.
Pioneering Innovation, Inspired by the Future
At the heart of the new Lexus ES lies a holistic design philosophy that blends form, function, and future-thinking. Drawing inspiration from the Lexus LF-ZC concept, the latest ES embraces a daring yet refined silhouette, with proportions honed to enhance aerodynamic efficiency while retaining the unmistakable Lexus presence.
From the finely contoured bumper lines to the sculpted body profile, every element of the new ES’s design has been engineered to maximise both aesthetics and performance. The new Twin L-Signature headlamp and tail lamp designs, alongside an evolved Spindle Body front-end, amplify road presence while improving visibility and aerodynamic flow.
The new ES rides on a reimagined TNGA GA-K platform, purpose-built to accommodate both hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) powertrains. This innovative foundation enables a lower centre of gravity and an enhanced ride that speaks directly to Lexus’ dedication to a dynamic, yet serene, driving experience.
A Sanctuary Within – Crafted with Comfort in Mind
Step inside the all-new Lexus ES and discover a world crafted with meticulous attention to detail, designed to evoke the serenity and sophistication of a luxury lounge. The expanded dimensions offer enhanced legroom and comfort, while smart design features – like a higher seating position and wide glass panels – ensure excellent visibility and a feeling of spaciousness.
The cabin is a marriage of luxury and innovation. An electronically dimmable panoramic roof, Low-E glass for heat and UV protection, and finely tuned ambient lighting work together to create an in-car environment that is both welcoming and refined – well-suited to South African climates and lifestyles.
Material innovation plays a leading role, with new trim options including Bamboo Layering and Micro Geometric detailing. Lexus’ commitment to sustainability and sensory luxury shines through in synthetic leather embossing and advanced fragrance systems, featuring bamboo-based scents that echo the brand’s Japanese heritage.
Passengers are treated to unparalleled comfort, with reclining rear seats, ottoman functions, and ambient experiences orchestrated by the Sensory Concierge system – harmonising light, sound, temperature, and even scent to create personalised comfort. It’s more than a car interior; it’s a haven of calm.
Next-Generation Electrified Performance for a Changing World
Lexus’ multi-pathway strategy is reflected in the ES’s diverse new powertrain lineup, developed in response to the growing demand for sustainable mobility in markets like South Africa. Whether HEV or BEV, each variant of the ES is engineered to deliver effortless performance and efficiency.
The ES 300h introduces a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder hybrid system for the first time, while the more powerful ES 350h features an upgraded 2.5-litre hybrid engine with all-wheel drive options. For those seeking the quiet power and smoothness of all-electric driving, the ES 350e and ES 500e deliver front- and all-wheel drive respectively, with the latter boasting the advanced DIRECT4 torque distribution system for optimal traction and energy efficiency.
The powertrains, paired with the new platform, make for a vehicle that is agile, balanced, and remarkably responsive – echoing the Lexus Driving Signature that South African customers have come to know and admire.
Precision Engineering Meets the Lexus Driving Signature
In pursuit of driving excellence, Lexus has reworked the ES’s suspension and structural rigidity to deliver an intuitively smooth and composed ride. The newly developed multi-link rear suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) technology ensure exceptional agility in tight spaces while enhancing high-speed stability on the open road.
Inside, silence reigns. Enhanced soundproofing and insulation materials create a cocoon-like atmosphere, shielding passengers from external noise and vibration. Whether commuting through traffic or enjoying a weekend drive, the ES offers unmatched refinement and tranquillity.
Safety and Intelligence: Raising the Bar
The new ES incorporates the most advanced version of the Lexus Safety System +, offering an expanded field of vision, improved detection accuracy, and enhanced driver assistance features – essential for the diverse driving conditions.
New safety features include upgraded object recognition, broader sensor coverage, and clearer driver alerts, all designed to help prevent collisions and support the driver with confidence.
Built for Tomorrow, Ready for the World
The Lexus ES has built a loyal following of discerning customers drawn to its elegant design and unrivalled comfort. The arrival of the all-new ES brings with it not only a leap in innovation but also a deepened commitment to luxury that adapts to modern expectations.
With the all-new ES, Lexus offers motorists an electrified future that remains rooted in luxury, hospitality, and human-centred design – qualities that continue to define the brand across the globe.
Lexus South Africa will confirm specifications, model variants, and available technologies for local customers closer to the ES’s official launch timing.
