Lexus puts hybrid and EV on equal footing — and lets the buyer decide

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Lexus has launched the new-generation ES on the Japanese market. This is the eighth generation of the sedan, and it now plays not only the role of a comfortable four-door, but also of the first model in the brand’s new electrified wave.

The key change — two powertrain lines at once. The range includes the ES350h hybrid with front- or all-wheel drive, plus the electric ES350e with front-wheel drive and the ES500e with all-wheel drive. On the WLTC cycle, EV range is claimed at up to 670 km for the ES350e and 636 km for the ES500e. A 150 kW fast charger tops the battery up from 10 to 80% in roughly 28 minutes at an ambient temperature of 25 degrees.

Prices start at 7.9 million yen ($49,200) for the ES350h FWD and the ES350e. The all-wheel-drive hybrid is priced at 8.1 million yen ($50,400), while the ES500e starts at 8.3 million yen ($51,700). The ES350e version L is offered at 8.8 million yen ($54,800), and the top-of-the-line ES350e Rr Comfort package and ES500e version L are priced at 9.2 million yen ($57,300).

Inside, Lexus has added hidden touch switches, ambient lighting with six pre-set scenes and the Rr Comfort package for the ES350e: rear passengers get reclining seats, an ottoman and the option to fold the front passenger seat.

The new ES no longer looks like just a sedan for relaxed cruising: Lexus is testing whether executive-class buyers are ready to choose between hybrid and EV without changing the bodywork.