2026 Beijing Auto Show: All-New Lexus ES Arrives with 165 mm Longer Body, Hybrid & EV Options

The star of the Lexus booth at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show is undoubtedly the all-new Lexus ES. As one of the world's best-selling luxury executive sedans, this next-generation ES undergoes a bold design overhaul and, for the first time, confirms a fully electric (BEV) powertrain. In China, the ES 300h hybrid leads the charge, with pricing starting from CNY 299,900 (approx. RM197,300)

Enhanced Dimensions: Class-Leading Rear Space 

For Malaysian executives who prioritize rear-seat comfort, the new ES offers an impressive growth in footprint. Built on the optimized GA-K platform, the dimensions have been significantly upscaled.

Length: Increased by 165 mm (reaching 5,140 mm)

Wheelbase: Extended by 80 mm (reaching 2,950 mm). This translates to rear legroom that rivals — or even exceeds — some long-wheelbase D-segment competitors, further cementing its reputation as the chauffeur-driven "boss car".

Design: Elegance Reimagined

The exterior introduces a seamless Spindle Grille, where the lines flow naturally from the hood to the bumper corners, creating a wider, more assertive stance. Modern touches include semi-hidden door handles and a striking black character line along the lower profile. The rear is defined by a full-width LED light bar and a subtle, integrated spoiler.

Interior: The Art of Time 

The cabin transitions to a minimalist, high-tech philosophy, moving away from traditional physical buttons.

Dual-Screen Cockpit: The dashboard features twin 14-inch displays for the center console and front passenger.

Sensory Luxury: Lexus introduces a Bamboo-inspired fragrance system and touch-sensitive controls for a sleeker aesthetic.

Premium Appointments: The Mark Levinson® surround sound system returns, alongside Ottoman seats with calf support for the front passenger.

Powertrain: Hybrid First, EV to Follow 

The new ES enters a new era of electrification.

ES 300h (Hybrid): Features the 5th-Gen Lexus Hybrid System, combining a high-efficiency engine with a high-output motor for a total output of 145 kW (approx. 197 PS), paired with an E-CVT. 

ES 350e / ES 500e (EV): Launching later, the ES 500e is set to feature the DIRECT4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system.

Editor's Take: Malaysia Outlook? 

With the current Lexus ES 250 in Malaysia priced between RM320k to RM371k, the shift toward electrification is significant. Should the new ES 300h arrive in Malaysia and benefit from local hybrid tax incentives, it could become a formidable challenger to the established BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.