Table of Contents
Design and Styling
The first thing that catches the eye is the ES’s new design language. Lexus has moved away from the bland, committee‑made look that has dominated many of its recent models. Instead, the front fascia features a twin‑L‑shaped grille that flows seamlessly into the body, giving the car a sharp, almost aggressive stance. The headlights, inspired by the RZ series, are angular and sculpted, while the daytime running lights form a distinctive spindle shape that echoes the brand’s signature “L” motif.
Inside, the styling is equally thoughtful. The cabin is trimmed in a palette of glacier blue, sonic copper, and classic grays, with optional 21‑inch wheels that use a lightweight wall‑casting process to keep the overall weight down. The result is a vehicle that feels both contemporary and unmistakably Lexus, with a touch of understated luxury that sets it apart from the generic electric saloons flooding the market.
Interior and Comfort
The interior is a study in quiet luxury. The seats are slimline, with thinner headrests that still offer excellent support. Depending on the trim, you can choose between artificial leather or semi‑aniline leather, the latter providing a richer feel. The cabin’s layout is clean, with a digital driver’s display that sits neatly within the steering wheel arc, keeping the dashboard uncluttered.
Comfort features abound. The seats are ventilated and heated, and the rear seats can be reclined slightly, offering a limousine‑like feel. Ambient lighting, including bamboo accents on the doors, adds a subtle touch of elegance. The car also comes with a 360‑degree camera, though its image quality is modest, it still provides useful situational awareness.
Performance and Range
The ES 350e is powered by a 72‑kWh usable battery that delivers a theoretical range of 361 miles on the entry‑level version with 19‑inch wheels. Upgrading to the optional 21‑inch wheels reduces the range to about 330 miles, a drop of roughly 40 miles. In real‑world tests, the car averages around 4.5 miles per kWh, which translates to just over 300 miles of usable range under typical driving conditions.
Under the hood, the single‑motor front‑wheel‑drive setup produces just over 220 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in eight seconds. While the model lacks a dual‑motor all‑wheel‑drive option in the UK, the powertrain is efficient, featuring a heat pump and a 150‑kW fast‑charge capability that can top up the battery quickly on public chargers.
Pricing and Market Position
Pricing for the electric ES starts just under £59,000 for the entry‑level model, rising to £68,500 for the mid‑spec Premium Plus and £72,000 for the top‑spec Takumi. While the price point is high, Lexus backs the vehicle with a warranty that can be extended to ten years, and the brand’s reputation for reliability adds confidence for buyers who value long‑term ownership.
In the UK, the ES is positioned as a niche offering, with two‑thirds of the fleet sales expected to go to commercial operators and only a third to private buyers. This strategy reflects Lexus’s focus on fleet customers who appreciate the vehicle’s low operating costs and quiet, comfortable ride.
Closing Thoughts
All in all, the new Lexus ES electric saloon delivers a refined, quiet driving experience that feels more like a luxury lounge than a high‑tech showcase. Its blend of elegant styling, spacious interior, and solid performance makes it a compelling choice for those who value comfort and efficiency over outright speed. While the price remains on the higher side, the long‑term reliability and low operating costs help justify the investment for fleet operators and discerning private buyers alike.
Additional strengths include a 360‑degree camera that, though modest in image quality, provides useful situational awareness, and a suite of driver‑assist features such as adaptive cruise control and a comprehensive safety package. The cabin’s exceptional quietness, efficient heat‑pump heating, and Lexus’s renowned after‑sales service further enhance the vehicle’s appeal in the electric saloon segment.