The Lexus ES is returning in eighth-generation form as a rival to the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series – but, unlike its German competition, it could do away with petrol power entirely in the UK.
In Western Europe, the ES will be offered with a 199bhp hybrid powertrain as well as two battery-electric options.
However, Autocar understands that the brand's British arm is currently evaluating whether to offer exclusively the electric powertrains, given the greater proportion of EV sales in the UK compared with those in Europe.
A final decision has yet to be made, but it is highly likely the hybrid will not come to the UK.
That decision, if taken, would leave the front-driven ES 350e and four-wheel-drive ES 500e as the only versions bound for UK showrooms. The former packs a single 221bhp motor and a 77kWh lithium ion battery, yielding a range of around 329 miles between charges and a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.2sec. The 500e, meanwhile, has 338bhp and a 0-62mph time of 5.7sec, but its range – which has yet to be revealed – will be reduced compared with that of the 350e.
The new version of Lexus's executive saloon was first revealed at the Shanghai motor show in China, where it is the number one imported vehicle.
Lexus said this new generation of ES makes advances in "ride quality, comfort and quietness" over its predecessor and has been designed to offer "first-class comfort for everyone on board".
The minimalist cockpit marks a complete departure from that of the previous car and has been designed with a heavy influence from the Chinese market: physical controls are few and far between, and a large 12.3in touchscreen takes centre stage as the primary control interface. Hidden beneath the screen is a row of haptic switches which illuminate when the car is powered on.
Join the debate
Add your comment
The new Lexus ES sounds like a real shift toward comfort-focused electric luxury. I once financed my previous RX through lexus financial and that experience taught me how important it is to compare EV incentives and long-term running costs before deciding. The ES’s silent cabin and refined ride would make long commutes or weekend drives genuinely relaxing. I like that Lexus is moving toward minimalism inside, it feels less cluttered, more modern. And with the electric models offering both range and performance, this could be the perfect blend of serenity and tech for people who want premium travel without the noise.
ES now in it's 8th generation. I'd like to know how many of those 7 generations of ES Lexus sold in the UK.
Why would someone offer a product they know won't sell?
Without actually seeing the headline I thought this was a Nio or BYD such is the Chinesse influence. Depending on your viewpoint that mightn't be a bad thing.