Cabin revolution: Lexus reveals the secrets of its new multimedia system

© pressroom.lexus.com

As the Japanese automaker reports, the updated version of the Lexus Interface multimedia system makes its debut in the 2026 ES, before rolling out to other models in the lineup. For the first time across the Lexus range, the new system features AT&T 5G network connectivity. This delivers faster data speeds, expanded features and the reliability of AT&T’s extensive network across North America.

The new interface seamlessly blends crisp graphics with intuitive icons displayed across a standard 14-inch screen. Touchscreen response times are quicker thanks to the device’s greater processing power. Personalization has been a key focus: the interface now features a customizable home screen, where the driver and passengers can choose their preferred combination of widgets — navigation, drive mode, audio system, connected smart devices and the weather forecast. Widgets can be grouped two or three at a time for faster access to the most important information.

A Quick Control menu has also been added, accessible from the upper right corner of the touchscreen. It groups together settings for frequently used functions: Bluetooth connectivity, screen brightness, switching between light and dark modes, shortcuts for fine-tuning the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and more. Inside the 2026 Lexus ES, more than 64 ambient lighting options are available — a single button press sets the mood for the drive. Lexus Interface also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Thanks to a new on-device embedded solution, the Lexus Voice Assistant now responds faster. A simple «Hey, Lexus», «Hi, Lexus» or «Okay, Lexus» is enough for the assistant to adjust volume, choose a radio station or track, change climate control settings in any cabin zone, provide the estimated distance to the destination, plus date and time. The voice assistant can also handle basic arithmetic and navigate through menu pages on the head unit. For the first time in the history of Lexus multimedia, the assistant comes with two voice options — male and female.

For the first time, the Lexus multimedia system has gained deeper integration with the Multi-Information Display (MID). Built-in navigation is now shown full-screen on the MID: maps and turn-by-turn prompts appear directly behind the steering wheel, improving visibility and immersion in the driving process. Cloud navigation requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, which unlocks access to real-time traffic information, around-the-clock operator support for route planning and other services.

The latest-generation Lexus multimedia introduces a standard Drive Recorder function: it delivers conventional dashcam capabilities without a visible camera inside the cabin — the system records footage from the vehicle’s exterior cameras. The new Lexus Interface also adds EV charge management features for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the 2026 ES 350e and ES 500e: customers can monitor and control charging directly from the head unit.

The new Lexus Interface also expands digital key functionality — available with a Remote Connect trial or subscription. Through a digital wallet app on a compatible smartphone, owners can now lock, unlock and start a supported Lexus.

For context, Lexus Interface was first introduced on the 2022 Lexus NX. Since then, designers, developers and software engineers have been collecting feedback from customers and dealers to evolve the system and elevate the driving experience.