2026 Lexus ES350h regional debut in Malaysia? Bookings now opened for 8th gen model

Slightly more than a year since its global debut at the 2025 Auto Shanghai, it appears that bookings are now opened for the eighth-generation 2026 Lexus ES in Malaysia.

According to the information we gathered, the variant that we’re set to receive is the Lexus ES350h – a variant that’s currently unavailable in the ASEAN region. Could Malaysia host the regional debut of the hybrid ES?

What’s new with the Lexus ES350h?

The eighth-generation Lexus ES debuted in Japan a month ago in two electrified forms – HEV and BEV.

At the heart of the Japan-spec Lexus ES350h is a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor, allowing for a combined system output of 248 PS. This powertrain enables the front-wheel drive Lexus ES350h to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds (AWD: 7.5 seconds), whilst returning 25.4 km/L under the WLTC cycle. Our Malaysian-spec car should be quite close in terms of powertrain.

Inside the cabin of the Japan-spec ES, the Lexus logo is no longer placed on the steering wheel; instead, the steering wheel airbag cover now wears the LEXUS wording proudly. Also new is the fully-digital 12.3-inch digital driver display and 14.0-inch free-standing infotainment system.

The booking image revealed that our local-spec ES350h would receive the Lexus Safety System 4.0 ADAS suite, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System, and Lexus Teammate & Park Assist. 

No word on local prices as yet, but over in Japan, where the model is manufactured, this mid-size luxury sedan is priced from JPY 7.9 million (~RM 199k).