In a recent leak, we caught our first glimpse of the real 2026 Lexus ES on Chinese social media.
These images offer an early insight into the mid-size sedan's latest look, clearly revealing significant alterations to both the front and rear ends.
The most striking changes include redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with a full-width LED light strip connecting the rear light clusters.
Additionally, the new headlamp design aligns the ES with Lexus's latest design language. Although this model is primarily targeted at the Chinese market, it is widely expected that these updates will roll out globally, meaning the 2026 Lexus ES in other markets will feature the same enhancements.
Now in its seventh generation, the ES seems a bit outdated since its mid-2018 launch. While a complete replacement isn’t on the immediate horizon, Toyota plans to refresh it with a facelift version.
Based on previous teaser campaigns and patent filings, many anticipated a significant redesign for the 2026 Lexus ES, akin to its Toyota sibling, the Camry, including a departure from the spindle grille and the introduction of fully electric versions.
However, it seems Lexus has opted for a more conservative facelift approach, focusing mainly on technical updates within the cabin.
This does not imply that the rumors were wrong; Lexus is preparing a separate update for the internal combustion engine (ICE) model shown here, while the electric version is set for more substantial updates, as hinted in those patent filings.
At first glance, the sedan shown in the leaked guide might be confused with the current ES model. However, a closer look reveals several modifications, starting with a pair of redesigned headlights featuring Z-shaped LED lighting, now positioned at the top and wrapping around the sides, unlike the lower placement in the current model.
Additionally, while the spindle grille maintains its signature shape, the internal pattern has been completely revamped, drawing design cues from the updated RX.
The overall body structure remains quite familiar. At the rear, not much has changed except for the new lighting design. It remains unclear whether the trim linking the taillights will evolve into a full-width LED strip.
Lexus is also expected to update the model badge to align with the rest of the lineup. Inside, the changes are more pronounced.
The most significant update is the larger infotainment touchscreen dominating the dashboard, which closely resembles the 14-inch display in the latest NX and RX models.
The new screen has necessitated some changes to the center console layout, including redesigned air vents.
Unfortunately, the physical buttons for climate control and multimedia functions have been removed, and it remains uncertain whether Lexus will retain the analog clock currently positioned next to the 12.3-inch screen in the existing model.
Another anticipated update is a digital instrument cluster, likely borrowed from the larger LS sedan or perhaps the LM minivan.
Also noteworthy is the presence of a gear shifter, indicating this is an ICE or hybrid version of the ES, not one of the electric variants.
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