Lexus is set to unveil its 8th-generation ES at the Shanghai Motor Show on April 23, marking what the company is reportedly calling a significant shift in the model’s positioning. While the ES has long been a cornerstone of the Lexus lineup, it hasn’t always been in the spotlight. However, the brand is said to be billing this new launch as their Global Flagship Model, suggesting that the ES could be stepping into a more prominent role, potentially encroaching on territory traditionally held by the Lexus LS.
Comfort and Electrification
Lexus has emphasized that the new ES features refined electrification technology while enhancing its trademark quietness and ride quality, hinting at the possibility of a fully electric version alongside hybrid offerings.
While specific details remain under wraps, the teaser images suggest the ES will likely retain a front-wheel-drive architecture. The compact space between the front axle and A-pillar seems to rule out a longitudinal engine layout, indicating that front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations are probable.
The all-new ES is expected to ride on an evolved version of the TNGA-K platform. Although Toyota hasn’t announced plans to adopt this platform for dedicated electric vehicles (EVs), the company is pushing for increased electrification in this segment. Toyota’s bZ3 electric sedan, sold exclusively in China, uses the e-TNGA platform shared with models like the bZ4X, Lexus RZ, and Subaru Solterra, potentially paving the way for future electric Lexus models.
Significant design changes are expected, with a sleek fastback-like silhouette that pushes the boundaries of traditional sedan styling. While still retaining a visible trunk lid, the overall proportions evoke comparisons to the Audi A6 e-tron concept.
Lexus has adopted a bold Slant Nose design, with headlight clusters positioned low on the bumper and sharp LED daytime running lights above. The rear features a full-width light bar, while pronounced character lines along the body emphasize the new ES’s dynamic presence.
Why Shanghai?
While the U.S. remains the largest market for the ES, the Shanghai debut underscores China’s growing importance in the luxury car segment, particularly for EVs. This move aligns with the possibility of offering a fully electric ES variant.
Lexus has confirmed plans to introduce the new ES in Europe as well. An official U.S. release has not been announced yet, but the model’s strong 2024 sales with 18,481 units make a U.S. launch highly likely. On the other hand, the ES recently surpassed 100,000 cumulative sales in South Korea, heightening anticipation for the new model’s arrival.
