Lexus has introduced the new-generation ES sedan in India, now available with a fully electric powertrain. Priced at Rs 89.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the ES 500e becomes the brand’s first all-electric offering in the country. Alongside the EV, Lexus will also bring back the petrol-hybrid ES 350h, although its pricing will be announced later this year. The new ES is based on the TNGA GA-K platform and marks its eighth generation, with changes to its design, features, and powertrain.
Variants And Performance
The new ES will be offered in two variants, the all-electric 500e and the petrol-hybrid 350h. For context, the earlier ES hybrid was priced between Rs 64 lakh and Rs 69.70 lakh (ex-showroom), so the new model sits higher, mainly with the addition of the EV version.
The ES 500e runs on a 74.68 kWh battery, paired with two electric motors, one on each axle, so it gets an all-wheel-drive setup. The front motor puts out 227 hp and 267 Nm, while the rear adds 120 hp and 170 Nm. Together, the system delivers 343 hp and 438 Nm. Lexus claims a 0–100 km/h time of 5.5 seconds and a driving range of up to 580 km on a single charge.
Charging options include an 11 kW AC home charger and a portable 2.8 kW charger. With a 150 kW DC fast charger, the battery can go from 10 to 80 per cent in about 28 minutes. Lexus is offering an 8-year or 2,00,000 km warranty on both the vehicle and battery. The ES 350h, arriving later, will use a 2.5-litre petrol-hybrid setup with a combined output of 247 hp, paired with an e-CVT transmission.
Exterior Design
The new ES adopts Lexus’ Provocative Simplicity design direction, giving it a sharper and more modern look. Up front, the traditional spindle grille has been replaced by a cleaner, closed-off design. The signature ‘twin L’ lighting elements form part of the daytime running lights, while the main headlamps sit lower on the bumper.
The side profile features a coupe-like roofline, a rising beltline, and a distinctive Z-shaped trim detail across the doors. It rides on 21-inch aero-optimised wheels. At the rear, the ES gets connected LED tail-lamps with ‘Lexus’ lettering in the centre, along with a sloping roofline that adds a sportier touch.
Dimensions
Compared to the previous model, the new ES has grown in size across all dimensions.
- Length: 5,145 mm
- Width: 1,920 mm
- Height: 1,575 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,950 mm
- Ground clearance: 158 mm
Lexus has also increased ground clearance by 20 mm specifically for Indian conditions.
Interior And Cabin
Inside, the ES follows a minimal and clean layout, with a focus on space and materials. Lexus calls this approach “Clean Tech x Elegance”. The cabin gets a large 14-inch touchscreen, paired with a 13.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Physical controls are limited, but proximity-based touch controls light up when needed.
Other highlights include a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, and redesigned seats that free up a bit more space. Lexus has also worked on better insulation to keep the cabin quieter. Inside, you can choose between white or tan upholstery.
Features And Equipment
There’s a strong mix of comfort and tech on offer. Some of the key features include a Mark Levinson audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless chargers, powered front seats with heating and ventilation, 3-zone climate control, a head-up display, and a digital IRVM.
Safety features include radar-based cruise control, lane-change assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive high beams, and driver drowsiness alert. The car also gets 10 airbags, a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, and parking sensors.
Market Context
The Lexus ES continues to compete with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Audi A6. What sets it apart this time is the introduction of a fully electric version, making it one of the few options in the luxury sedan segment to offer an EV alongside traditional hybrid power.
