First all-electric Lexus ES set to challenge Germany’s finest exec saloons

Available in hybrid or full EV guise, Lexus’s new eighth-gen ES takes its flagship honours from the discontinued LS. Find out if it’s a true market disrupter, or just another also ran, below.

Imagine a large executive saloon and you’ll probably think 5 Series, A6, E-Class or, nowadays, maybe even Model S. Probably not ES, though. Why is that then? Well, there are two main reasons. One: while they’ve been building the ES in one form or another since the late ‘80s, only the seventh-gen model made its way to Europe — so it’s not been around long enough to make an impact. And, two: it simply wasn’t very competitive against those established German staples — so there was little incentive to actually buy it. 

This eight-generation model hopes to change all that. First off, there’s an angular new look to help inject a much-needed sense of brand identity. So, rather than going down the gaping grille route like BMW and Audi, the ES treads its own path with a simple slimline slot for frontal cooling. Moreover, the car’s silhouette has also been designed to stand out: ‘overall height, width, and length were calculated to produce elegant and striking proportions’. And, while the abundance of sharp angles, creases, and slots, won’t be loved by those seeking a subtler look — Mercedes’ inoffensive E-Class better caters to such customers — we’re pleased that Lexus has dared to be different. 

We just wish the same could be said for the interior. Sure, minimalist design is all the rage at the minute but, dare we say it, the ES’s cabin executes this philosophy to a fault. Peel away the Lexus font from that Tesla-esque wheel and this interior could belong to just about any large saloon of the last five years. And that’s a problem for a car which desperately needs to be noticed in order to succeed.

Nonetheless, if you can overlook the lack of creative flair, the big Lexus’ cabin promises to be a properly luxurious place to spend time. From lashings of synthetic leather and ambient lighting to the specially designed Mark Levinson surround sound system, all the usual premium trimmings are present and correct. But there are some more unusual and intriguing inclusions, too. The rear seats, for example, recline and can be optioned with an ottoman leg support for the full chauffeur-driven experience. Oh, and don’t forget the Bamboo Layering technology which enhances the effect of those cabin lights. 

So, the exterior’s eye-catching and the interior’s a bland but luxurious affair. What about the oily bits? Well, given Lexus’ reputation for bulletproof build quality and precision engineering, this is where the ES could claw back some serious ground. Starting with the headline update, this Lexus does indeed come as a full EV for the first time ever, though a hybrid powertrain option is available for those not yet ready to make the big leap. 

Whether this is good or bad news, entirely depends on your priorities. Positively, all configurations will offer smooth, refined progress (especially the EVs), and some will be available with all-wheel drive for a more secure feel in all conditions. Just don’t go expecting rapid acceleration. The hybrid option makes do with a 198-bhp variant of the brand’s enduring 2.5-litre four — so a fairly leisurely 0-60 sprint is on the cards. On the other hand, with 221 or 338 bhp respectively, the two EVs should feel fairly pokey. Neither will compete with true sports or super saloons for outright pace, though, and you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming range stats or charging times.

However, while the ES won’t challenge a BMW i5 M50 in a straight line, it should still entertain when the going gets twisty. To this end, Lexus argues that the ES’ structure has been fully reworked, resulting in a longer wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks. Additionally, a multi-link suspension (a first for ES) and a new variable-gear steering system, should help mask this large exec’s heft when pushing on.  

Does the new eighth-gen ES remedy the old model’s forgettable image? We’re not so sure, though we’ll reserve final judgment for when we finally get behind the wheel. But, if you think this luxurious Lexus sounds like a refreshing alternative to the current saloon status quo, full pricing and specs should land later this year.

Hero image credit: Lexus