The luxurious Lexus ES sedan is entering the South African market, offering buyers a choice between a fully electric and a self-charging hybrid powertrain. The eighth generation of the Lexus ES features a more expressive exterior design, a significantly enlarged cabin, and an updated technology package, expanding offerings in the premium sedan segment where demands for comfort, connectivity, and electrification are constantly growing.
Three variants are locally available: the Lexus ES 350h EX, ES 350h SE, and the fully electric ES 350e SE. The two hybrid versions are equipped with Lexus's latest 2.5-liter self-charging hybrid system, while the ES 350e SE is the first fully electric ES version introduced to the South African market.
Prices start from R1,051,200 for the ES 350h EX, increasing to R1,232,700 for the ES 350h SE and R1,561,000 for the electric ES 350e SE.
Although SUVs have become the dominant element in the premium car market, luxury sedans continue to provide a unique combination of representative style, passenger comfort, and smooth long-distance driving. Lexus has developed the new ES with these qualities in mind, giving the model a more modern look and more interior space.
The dimensions of the new ES are 5,140 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,555 mm in height, increasing to 1,560 mm for the electric version. It is larger than its predecessor: the wheelbase has increased by 80 mm to 2,950 mm, the overall length has grown by 165 mm, and the width by 55 mm. These changes contribute to a more substantial appearance and additional space for passengers, especially those in the rear.
Lexus describes its design approach as 'Clean Tech x Elegance', combining sophisticated aesthetics with technology-oriented details. At the front, the latest interpretation of the Lexus Spindle Body merges the hood and bumper into a cleaner and wider design. This distinctive look is complemented by the new Twin L Signature Lamp lighting signature, while the rear features a wide stance and the signature Lexus ICON lighting. Semi-closing door handles and an electric-touch tailgate also contribute to the streamlined exterior. The hybrid versions are fitted with 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, whereas the ES 350e SE receives 21-inch multi-spoke wheels. Six exterior colors are available: Crystal Blue, Graphite Black, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Iridium, and White Nova.
The interior presents Lexus's new design language, merging digital interfaces, high-quality trim materials, and a more organized layout. A 12.3-inch TFT LCD display for the driver is paired with a new multimedia interface, while the redesigned steering wheel and Electro-Shiftmatic electronic selector contribute to the cabin's modernization. One of the most notable features is Lexus's Hidden Switches technology, which integrates selected controls under the dashboard upholstery. These switches remain hidden when the vehicle is off and illuminate upon startup, providing access to controls when needed. Despite their integrated appearance, they retain tactile feedback, allowing the driver to operate them by touch. This concept reflects Lexus's Omotenashi philosophy, which emphasizes anticipating and satisfying people's needs. In this case, the technology is designed to remain inconspicuous until necessary.
Depending on the variant, the ES also offers heated and ventilated front seats, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic roof with electric tinting, rear sunshades, enhanced interior lighting, and the Auto Climate Concierge system. SE models include features such as a Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor, Automatic Parking, active noise cancellation, and interior details using bamboo layers.
The larger dimensions have also influenced the engineering solutions of the new ES, as Lexus focused on structural rigidity, steering responsiveness, and ride comfort. The sedan is built on a revised version of the global Lexus-K architecture, which supports both hybrid and battery powertrains. The front, floor, and rear structures have been reinforced to reduce vibration and improve steering precision, as well as to enhance acceleration and braking response. The longer wheelbase creates more space between the front and rear seats, with the distance between seat pairs increasing by 77 mm to 1,102 mm. The higher seating position is also intended to facilitate entry and exit from the vehicle.
The suspension combines MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Lexus claims that this revised system is designed to improve stability, body control, and ride comfort. The adjustable steering rack is designed to ensure greater stability at high speeds, quicker response in corners, and easier maneuvering at low speeds. All these changes support the Lexus Driving Signature, which emphasizes comfort, confidence, and control.
The new ES is also equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 4, which combines a range of driver assistance technologies. These include collision prevention, adaptive cruise control at highway speeds, lane keeping assist, road sign assist, and adaptive high beam technology. A driver monitoring camera and forward traffic crossing warning are also included, with additional functions varying by model. These may include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking-assist braking. These systems aim to assist the driver by providing extra information and support in various road situations.
The ES 350h EX is the starting point of the lineup in South Africa. It features a 2.5-liter petrol-electric hybrid system that drives the front wheels via an electronically controlled variable transmission. The petrol engine produces 139 kW and 235 Nm, with a total system output of 182 kW. Standard equipment includes Lexus Safety System+ 4, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring camera, and parking-assist brake. The exterior includes LED headlights, heated and automatically folding mirrors, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, passengers receive synthetic leather seats, an eight-position adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, and a 14-inch multimedia display. Other features include a premium 10-speaker audio system, panoramic electric roof, wireless connectivity, a 12.3-inch driver display, and premium interior lighting. The EX also offers an integrated sport drive mode with three modes and user settings. Price: R1,051,200.
The ES 350h SE retains the 182 kW hybrid powertrain but is supplemented with equipment focused on cabin comfort, convenience, and refinement. The front seats are upholstered in perforated synthetic leather with three-stage heating, and both seats, including the driver's, feature lumbar support. The driver's seat is equipped with eight-position adjustment and memory function. Mirrors have memory, automatic folding, heating, electrochromic dimming, and reverse functionality. Additional features include a Digital Rearview Mirror, Auto Climate Concierge, Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor, and Automatic Parking. Another highlight is the 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound acoustic system, supported by active noise cancellation to create a quieter acoustic environment. The cabin is also adorned with bamboo layer detailing and wireless charging. Price: R1,232,700.
The ES 350e SE introduces the battery electric drive to the ES lineup in South Africa. The front electric motor produces 167 kW and 268 Nm, utilizing energy from a 74.69 kWh battery. Lexus states an electric range of up to 615 km on the NEDC cycle; actual range will depend on driving conditions, speed, weather, and other factors. For long journeys, fast DC charging allows the battery to be restored from 0% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes under suitable charging conditions. Lexus Home Charge provides a home charging option, and the Lexus app helps owners locate public charging infrastructure. The electric version features 21-inch wheels and is equipped with adaptive suspension, as well as an integrated sport drive mode with four modes and user settings. Other equipment includes active noise cancellation, Easy Closer doors, semi-aniline leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, four-position lumbar adjustment for both front seats, and a 10-position adjustable driver's seat. Two wireless chargers are also provided, rear sunshades, improved LED headlight technology, and an adaptive high-definition high beam system. The combination of the electric powertrain, enhanced interior trim, and added conveniences positions the ES 350e SE as the flagship of the local lineup. Price: R1,561,000.
The new Lexus ES is sold in the local market with a seven-year/105,000 km warranty and a seven-year/105,000 km maintenance plan. Both batteries, hybrid and battery, are covered by an eight-year/160,000 km warranty. This ownership package provides extra confidence for buyers considering both the self-charging hybrid and the fully electric luxury sedan. All three variants combine the new ES design with a greater emphasis on cabin comfort and technology, and the choice of powertrains allows buyers to select the option best suited to their driving needs. For customers preferring a hybrid, the ES 350h range offers a petrol-electric alternative without the need for external charging. Meanwhile, the ES 350e SE introduces fully electric driving to this model with a claimed range of up to 615 km according to the NEDC standard. Thanks to the more spacious interior, expanded technological offering, and the choice of electrified powertrains, the new Lexus ES represents a significant update to the brand's luxury sedan lineup in South Africa.