I, along with other sedan aficionados, am concerned over the increasing concentration of SUVs at the expense of sleeker, four-door options. Yes, I get SUVs are easier to enter and exit, but c’mon, give us sedan fans something to choose from.
Lexus is primarily known for premium, luxurious and reliable daily drivers. And that essentially hasn’t changed. The conundrum is how to manage the increasing cost of filling the tanks. EVs are a viable option, but that nasty “range anxiety” and worries about how long it takes to recharge the battery still arise. I always thought the hybrids delivered the best of all worlds, where you can fill up at the pump while driving gas-free for some distance.
The 2026 Lexus ES 350h is a notable option to consider. It’s comfy, stylish, luxurious and possesses an amazing 650 miles of total range. That is some serious worry-free driving between fill-ups. Let’s highlight the advantages and the few cons to consider, including an attractive price point in the vaunted Lexus brand.
SKIN
The latest ES 350h offers notable new design bits. The new hybrid measurements have grown considerably compared to other midsize luxury sedans. It’s longer by 6.5 inches and 4.5 inches higher, sitting at near-SUV levels. This was to close the gap with the now-discontinued LS sedan.
New styling is bolder and more substantial than previous ES models. The exterior is smoother with crisper folding creases. Its fastback profile flows nicely with the roofline. The front is thoroughly modern with sinister headlights and air intakes. Contrasting double-hockey-stick side accents break up the sightlines. I found them more pleasing with each view. Thin brake lights run across the entire rear, providing a clean view. The tester came in Ultra White paint that shimmers in sunlight.
19-inch alloy rims with aero covers visually fit well, but you’ll notice the higher-profile tires for smoother driving.
PERFORMANCE
The latest ES 350h is only available with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder, providing 244 hp, nearly 29 hp more than the previous hybrid. It comes in either front- or all-wheel drive. The 0-60 in 7.2 seconds isn’t a blowtorch of acceleration, but that’s not the goal. This ES is all about comfort, smoothness and of course that incredible gas mileage and range of 44 mpg and nearly 650 miles. That is confidently reassuring when paying for the recommended premium fuel.
Braking is impressive. The suspension is on the softer side but doesn’t feel floaty. It takes turns well. Again, this is a very capable cruising vehicle. The smallish battery recharges automatically with regenerative braking and activates in slower driving of 15-25 mph.
That optional AWD sends most of the power to the rear wheels except in slippery conditions. Steering is refined and accurate.
CABIN
The updated interior is luxurious and feels expansive for a car this size. Heated and ventilated NuLuxe®-trimmed seats are sublime with just enough support and comfort. As mentioned, you do sit significantly higher than in typical sedans. They will handle a long drive with nary body soreness. A thick-rimmed, leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel includes power tilt and telescopic adjustments. Micro-geometric trim adds to the upgraded Lexus look.
As mentioned, the increased cabin room offers significant rear legroom and headroom. Upscale touches include ambient lighting in the door handles and speakers (very cool). Sightline visibility is generous for such a sleek exterior.
Happily, most common button controls are placed under the 14.0” touchscreen infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included. A 10-speaker audio system is standard, but the Premium package delivers an excellent 17-speaker Mark Levinson upgrade that audiophiles will appreciate.
The longer and higher trunk brings a generous 17.4 cu. ft. of cargo space to house multiple golf bags. That is 26% more than the previous model. The power trunk lid supports hands-free operation via a foot kick under the rear bumper.
TECH CHECK
The updated technology will require a little learning curve due to the vast array of selections as you access the infotainment interface. Once comfortable, you’ll enjoy a plethora of choices literally at your fingertips, including the welcome return of actual buttons for climate control.
A new, larger 14” high-res infotainment touchscreen displays radio, camera views, and system tweaks. The updated voice recognition is handy when opting not to deal with the touchscreen during spirited driving.
The premium 1,800-watt, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is studio-quality crystal clear. Oh, Lexus finally removed the old-school CD player. Our Premium + package includes a handy Head-Up Display, 360-degree camera and a digital rearview mirror increasing driver views to three lanes wide.
One interesting safety feature is the Driver Monitor camera system that checks that your eyes are looking forward. Its capabilities can be intrusive when gazing at the infotainment screen but luckily can be turned off.
Lexus Enform software utilizes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa apps, allowing you to respond by voice to texts displayed on the screen, play from MP3 playlists and initiate turn-by-turn navigation. The Lexus App allows you to remotely start the car, lock/unlock your doors and locate the vehicle at its last parked location.
Safety features abound, including various lane, blind spot and pedestrian detection warnings plus Road Sign Assist to monitor speed traps.
The 2026 Lexus ES 350h Premium gives sedan fans a worthy option. Lexus’ excellent reliability and top safety ratings round out an exemplary package for those desiring cruising comfort, bold lines, quiet opulence, technology and that vaunted gas mileage. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and suggest giving it consideration when contemplating a comfy and capable four-door midsize luxury sedan.
SCORECARD
Golf Bags: Two
Curbside Appeal: Eye-catching and bold
0-60: 7.2 second
MPG: 44/48. Squeezed 46 in normal driving
Must Haves: Premium + package
Warranty: 4-yrs/50,000 miles 6-yrs/70,000 powertrain
Base Price: $51,095
Price as Tested: $57,188
Who Buys It? Those desiring a refined, relaxing and mileage capable sedan
Finish Line: A larger ride, increased cabin room with comfort, luxury and updated tech and Lexus’ superb reliability
Test-drive the 2026 Lexus ES 350h at Park Place Lexus Grapevine and Park Place Lexus Plano.