A significant luxury car is coming to the UK. The swoopy eighth-generation Lexus ES has been confirmed. It will arrive in 2026. This big saloon aims for big things. It will compete with other established luxury sedans. Get ready to observe this exciting new entry.
Design: A Bold and Modern Statement
British drivers often favor German saloons. However, Lexus is offering a fresh alternative. Its new ES model is heading to the UK next year. This car features striking new lights. It presents a highly distinctive look. The new ES is indeed headlined by these twin L-signature daytime running lights. Lexus states these lights will be a staple in its future EVs.
The car boasts many sharp angles. Its new suit is very modern. The sloping roofline is also notable. It gives this four-door saloon a coupe-like stance. This design provides both elegance and dynamism.
Powertrain Options for the UK Market
The UK will receive specific powertrain options. The entry-level car will be the ‘300h’. This is a self-charging hybrid model. It features a 2.5-liter inline-four engine. This produces 199 horsepower. It reaches 62 mph in 8 seconds with All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) takes 8.2 seconds.
An uprated ‘350h’ version exists. It offers 244 horsepower from a 2.5-liter engine. Unfortunately, the UK market will not receive this model.
Fully Electric ES Variants
For those seeking full electric power, options exist. The ‘350e’ is available. It features a front-driven 221 horsepower e-motor. A 77kWh battery powers it. This model boasts a range of 426 miles. This is between charges.
Alternatively, consider the ‘500e’. This “full-fat” electric version offers more power. It gets a slightly smaller 75kWh battery. This manages 379 miles of range. This is 47 miles less than the ‘350e’. However, it gains significant performance upgrades. It includes torque vectoring. It also offers all-wheel drive. An extra 117 horsepower boosts its total output. The new total is 338 horsepower. Consequently, it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.7 seconds.
Advanced Platform and Engineering
Both ES models utilize Lexus’s new ‘architecture-K’. This platform is a modified version. It comes from the global ‘TNGA GA-K’ platform. Here, it supports both hybrid and EV power for the first time. This innovative design allows batteries to sit beneath the floor. This lowers the car’s center of gravity. A lower center of gravity improves handling. It also enhances stability.
Interior Design and Technology
Inside, the new ES feels familiar. It maintains classic Lexus qualities. High-quality textiles and materials cover surfaces. The environment is generally clutter-free. A new ‘Hidden Switches’ feature debuts. This dims a row of switchgear buttons. These are beneath the 14-inch multimedia screen. They dim when not in use.
Drivers will also find a 12.3-inch display. This sits directly in front of them. A panoramic roof is available as an option. This enhances the cabin’s open feel. The interior blends luxury with minimalist technology.
Competing in the UK Luxury Market
Lexus aims high with the new ES. This large saloon seeks to challenge established rivals. Can it compete with Germany’s finest luxury sedans? The UK market has a strong preference for brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. The new ES brings a unique blend of style and electrification. Its striking looks and diverse powertrain options are strong selling points. Only time will tell its impact on the segment. This launch marks an exciting moment for Lexus in the UK.
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