The luxury sedan is entering a new chapter in South Africa, with Lexus introducing the all-new ES with a choice of self-charging hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
The eighth-generation Lexus ES arrives with a sharper exterior design, a substantially more spacious cabin and an upgraded technology package, giving buyers another option in the premium sedan market as expectations around comfort, connectivity and electrification continue to evolve.
Three derivatives are available locally: the Lexus ES 350h EX, ES 350h SE and the fully electric ES 350e SE.
The two hybrid models use Lexus' latest 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid system, while the ES 350e SE marks the first fully electric version of the ES to reach the South African market.
Prices start at R1,051,200 for the ES 350h EX, rising to R1,232,700 for the ES 350h SE and R1,561,000 for the electric ES 350e SE.
New Lexus ES brings a more commanding road presence
Although SUVs have become a dominant force in the premium vehicle market, luxury sedans continue to offer a distinctive combination of executive styling, passenger comfort and long-distance refinement.
Lexus has developed the new ES around these qualities, while giving the model a more contemporary appearance and greater interior space.
Measuring 5,140mm long, 1,920mm wide and 1,555mm high — increasing to 1,560mm for the electric derivative — the new ES is larger than its predecessor.
Its wheelbase has grown by 80mm to 2,950mm, while overall length has increased by 165mm and width by 55mm.
These changes contribute to a more substantial road presence and additional space for occupants, particularly those travelling in the rear.
Lexus describes the design approach as “Clean Tech x Elegance”, combining a sophisticated exterior with technology-led detailing.
At the front, the latest interpretation of the Lexus Spindle Body integrates the bonnet and bumper into a cleaner, wider design. The new Twin L Signature Lamp treatment adds to the distinctive appearance, while the rear features a broad stance and the Lexus ICON lighting signature.
Semi-flush door handles and an electric pop switch lid further contribute to the streamlined exterior.
The hybrid derivatives ride on 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, while the ES 350e SE receives 21-inch multi-spoke wheels.
Six exterior colours are available: Crystal Blue, Graphite Black, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Iridium and White Nova.
Inside the Lexus ES: technology meets comfort
The cabin introduces a new Lexus interior design language, bringing together digital interfaces, premium finishes and a more uncluttered layout.
A 12.3-inch TFT LCD driver's display is paired with a new multimedia interface, while a redesigned steering wheel and Electro-Shiftmatic electronic shifter contribute to the modernised cockpit.
One of the more distinctive features is Lexus' Hidden Switches technology, which integrates selected controls beneath the dashboard upholstery.
The switches remain concealed when the vehicle is switched off and illuminate when the car starts, revealing the controls when they are needed.
Despite their integrated appearance, they retain tactile feedback, allowing the driver to operate them by touch.
The concept reflects Lexus' Omotenashi philosophy, which places emphasis on anticipating and responding to people's needs. In this instance, technology is designed to remain unobtrusive until required.
Depending on the derivative, the ES also offers heated and ventilated front seats, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic roof with an electric shade, rear sunshades, enhanced interior lighting and Auto Climate Concierge.
The SE grades add features such as a Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor, Automatic Parking, active noise control and Bamboo Layering interior detailing.
Lexus ES focuses on comfort and driving refinement
The larger dimensions have also informed the engineering of the new ES, with Lexus focusing on structural rigidity, steering response and ride comfort.
Built on a redesigned version of the Lexus global architecture-K platform, the sedan accommodates both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains.
The front end, floor and rear structure have been reinforced to help reduce vibration and improve steering precision, as well as acceleration and braking responses.
The longer wheelbase creates more space between the front and rear seating positions, with the distance between the seat couples increasing by 77mm to 1,102mm.
Higher seating positions are also intended to make entering and exiting the vehicle easier.
The suspension combines MacPherson struts at the front with a multi-link arrangement at the rear. Lexus says the revised setup is designed to improve stability, body control and ride comfort.
A variable-gear steering rack is intended to provide greater stability at higher speeds, quicker responses through corners and easier manoeuvrability at lower speeds.
Together, these changes support the brand's Lexus Driving Signature, which focuses on comfort, confidence and control.
Lexus Safety System+ 4 adds driver assistance
The new ES also receives Lexus Safety System+ 4, bringing together a range of driver-assistance technologies.
These include the Pre-Collision Safety System, Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, Road Sign Assist and Adaptive High-Beam technology.
A Driver Monitor Camera and Front Cross Traffic Alert are also included, while additional features vary by derivative.
These can include Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Parking Support Alert Brake.
The systems are designed to assist the driver by providing additional information and support in different driving situations.
Lexus ES 350h EX: the entry-level hybrid
The ES 350h EX is the starting point of the South African range, with a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid system driving the front wheels through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
The petrol engine produces 139kW and 235Nm, while combined system output is rated at 182kW.
Its standard equipment includes Lexus Safety System+ 4, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front Cross Traffic Alert, a Driver Monitor Camera and Parking Support Alert Brake.
The exterior features LED headlamps, heated and auto-retractable mirrors and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, occupants get synthetic leather seating, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a heated steering wheel, automatic climate control and a 14-inch multimedia display.
Other highlights include a 10-speaker premium audio system, a panoramic electric sunroof, wireless connectivity, a 12.3-inch driver's display and premium interior illumination.
The EX also offers Integrated Sport Driving, with three driving modes and a Custom setting.
Price: R1,051,200.
Lexus ES 350h SE adds another layer of luxury
The ES 350h SE retains the 182kW hybrid powertrain but adds equipment focused on comfort, convenience and cabin refinement.
The front seats feature perforated synthetic leather and three-stage heating, while both the driver and passenger receive lumbar support. The driver's seat adds eight-way power adjustment and memory functionality.
The exterior mirrors include memory, automatic folding, heating, electrochromic dimming and reverse linkage.
Additional features include a Digital Inner Mirror, Auto Climate Concierge, Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor and Automatic Parking.
A 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system is another highlight, supported by active noise control to help create a quieter listening environment.
The cabin also receives Bamboo Layering interior detailing and wireless charging.
Price: R1,232,700.
Lexus ES 350e SE: the fully electric option
The ES 350e SE introduces battery-electric driving to the ES range in South Africa.
Its front-mounted electric motor produces 167kW and 268Nm, drawing energy from a 74.69kWh battery.
Lexus quotes an electric driving range of up to 615km on the NEDC test cycle. Actual range will vary according to driving conditions, speed, weather and other factors.
For longer journeys, DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 0% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes under suitable charging conditions.
Lexus Home Charge provides a home-charging option, while the Lexus app can help owners locate public charging infrastructure.
The electric derivative is distinguished by its 21-inch wheels and receives Adaptive Variable Suspension, along with Integrated Sport Driving offering four modes and a Custom setting.
Other equipment includes Active Sound Control, Easy Closer Doors, semi-aniline leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, four-way lumbar adjustment for both front seats and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
Two wireless charging points, rear-door sunshades, enhanced LED headlamp technology and a High-definition Adaptive High-Beam System are also included.
The combination of an electric powertrain, upgraded cabin finishes and additional comfort equipment positions the ES 350e SE as the flagship of the local range.
Price: R1,561,000.
Lexus ES pricing and ownership in South Africa
The new Lexus ES is sold locally with a seven-year/105,000km warranty and a seven-year/105,000km maintenance plan.
Both hybrid and battery-electric batteries are covered by an eight-year/160,000km warranty.
The ownership package provides added reassurance for buyers considering either a self-charging hybrid or a fully electric luxury sedan.
All three derivatives combine the latest ES design with a greater emphasis on cabin comfort and technology, while the choice of powertrains allows buyers to select the option that best suits their driving needs.
For customers who prefer a hybrid, the ES 350h range offers a petrol-electric alternative without requiring external charging. The ES 350e SE, meanwhile, brings fully electric motoring to the nameplate, with a claimed NEDC range of up to 615km.
With its more spacious interior, expanded technology offering and choice of electrified powertrains, the new Lexus ES represents a significant update to the brand's luxury sedan line-up in South Africa.