by Updated Design and Artistic Interpretation
The eighth-generation Lexus ES takes a noticeable step forward compared to its predecessors, showcasing sharper, more modern exterior contours and an interior inspired by the new wave of Chinese electric vehicle interiors. While the car looks more contemporary, this raises a legitimate question: can the design be developed even further?
Digital artist Theottle decided to test this idea, presenting a virtual version of the new ES with a sporty accent in the form of an F-Sport trim, inspired by the latest Lexus IS F-Sport. Since the previous ES model was offered with an F-Sport package, this visualization hints at what a similar version might look like if Lexus decided to bring it back for the new generation.
Lexus Keeps The IS Alive With Yet Another Facelift
In his work, the artist completely changed the front end, replacing the standard small lower grille with a significantly larger and more aggressive one, similar to the one installed on the new IS. While this grille might seem somewhat oversized, it is complemented by sharp bumper elements, giving the sedan a more expressive appearance.
Exterior Refinements
Additionally, the car’s ground clearance was slightly lowered, and it received a new set of wheels. Several changes also affected the rear of the ES. These include the installation of a new bumper with a gloss black diffuser, chrome-plated dual exhaust tips, and a large black spoiler on the trunk lid—elements also borrowed from the new IS F Sport.
Powertrain Lineup
Beyond visualizations and speculation, Lexus has confirmed that the new 2026 ES will debut in both self-charging hybrid and all-electric versions. The 2026 lineup will start with the ES 350h, equipped with a 2.5-liter hybrid four-cylinder engine producing 243 hp. It will be offered in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, with Lexus estimating the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration for the all-wheel-drive version at 7.2 seconds.
On the electric side, two options are planned. The lineup starts with the ES 350e, a front-wheel-drive, single-motor model with 221 hp, paired with a 77 kWh battery. Equipped with smaller 19-inch wheels, it is expected to provide approximately 300 miles (483 km) of range.
Those wanting more performance can opt for the dual-motor ES 500e with 338 hp, equipped with a slightly smaller 75 kWh battery. This version will have a range approximately 50 miles less, amounting to about 250 miles (402 km).
The appearance of such detailed renders from independent artists often indicates high public interest in the model and its potential versions. While Lexus has not yet officially announced an ES F-Sport, Theottle’s work demonstrates the potential that could lie in a sporty treatment of this sedan, combining elegance with a more aggressive character. The offered variety of powertrains, from traditional hybrids to full-electric vehicles, points to the brand’s strategy to satisfy diverse market needs in the era of transitioning to eco-friendly technologies.
