2026 Lexus ES teased in Malaysia ahead of launch, ES350h est. from RM 366,888

Recently, Lexus Malaysia has teased the 2026 Lexus ES on its official Facebook page, hinting that the eighth-generation executive sedan is close to a local introduction. 

The post shows the rear of the new car and its full-width light bar with illuminated Lexus lettering, a design detail that matches the global model that was revealed at least year's Auto Shanghai.

The latest ES is a major step up in size compared with the outgoing model. It measures 5,140 mm long, 1,920 mm wide and 1,555 mm tall, with a 2,950 mm wheelbase. Lexus says that makes it 165 mm longer, 55 mm wider and 110 mm taller than before, while the wheelbase grows by 80 mm.

The redesign is also a clear departure from the previous-generation car. The new sedan adopts a sleeker fastback profile, slim twin L-shaped headlamps and a cleaner front end inspired by the LF-ZC concept. EV versions feature a more closed-off nose, while the hybrid keeps a lower air intake.

Powertrain options for the global market include the ES350h hybrid, the ES350e EV and the ES500e EV. The hybrid uses Lexus’ latest system with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a combined output of 248 PS. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on this version.

The battery-electric (BEV) variants use a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion (LFP) battery mounted in the floor. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) ES350e produces 224 PS, while the dual-motor ES500e delivers 342 PS and uses DIRECT4 all-wheel drive (AWD). Lexus says the ES500e can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.

Inside, the new ES adopts a simpler cabin layout centred on a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen running the latest Lexus Interface software. The model also gets Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 (LSS+ 4.0), the brand’s latest suite of driver assistance features (ADAS).

Other notable features include flush electronic door releases and available rear lounge seats with an ottoman, aimed at buyers who prioritise comfort in the back row. These details position the ES squarely against other executive sedans that now emphasise electrification and digital interfaces as much as traditional comfort.

Although Lexus Malaysia has yet to reveal any concrete specifications or variant, an earlier posting by a Lexus dealer revealed that Malaysia could be receiving the ES350h - making Malaysia one of the first in this region to offer the petrol-electric hybrid powertrain. Additionally, Lexus Malaysia's ROI page listed an estimated starting price of RM 366,888.

For context, the outgoing Lexus ES is priced between RM 320,888 to RM 371,888.