Lexus Reimagined: The New Lexus ES Broke Every Rule It Created. Review
The all-new 2026 Lexus ES 500e AWD marks the 8th generation of the longest-running nameplate in Lexus history—and for the first time in 35 years, it has completely ditched the internal combustion engine. In this comprehensive review, we dive deep into the design, driving dynamics, luxury craftsmanship, charging performance, and whether an $80,000 electric ES preserves the legendary magic carpet ride that defined the brand.
What We Covered in This Video
The 35-Year Heritage Shift: Moving the iconic ES nameplate into a pure battery-electric vehicle.
Exterior Walkaround: The all-new, ES-exclusive “Wavelength” paint, the sedan vs. sportback roofline illusion, the inverted “L” rocker trim, and the closed-off spindle body design.
Interior Craftsmanship & Tech: Tactile layered Bamboo trim, Semi-Aniline white leather, 64-color ambient lighting, radiant knee heating, and the 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system.
Driving Impressions & DIRECT4 AWD: How 338 horsepower and instant torque handle the 4,850-lb curb weight, ride comfort, and high-speed stability.
NACS Charging & Range Test: Native Tesla Supercharger access, peak DC charging speeds, and real-world efficiency.
Pricing & Verdict: Full window sticker breakdown, CAD vs. USD pricing, and the multi-pathway strategy.
Key Specifications
Powertrain: Dual-Motor All-Electric (DIRECT4 AWD with eAxle)
Horsepower: 338 hp
Torque: 323 lb-ft
Battery Capacity: 74.7 kWh Lithium-Ion
Platform: 8th-Generation Multi-Pathway Architecture
Curb Weight: ~4,850 lbs (approx. 2,200 kg)
Wheels/Tires: Multi-spoke alloy wheels with Michelin rubber
Exterior Color: Wavelength
Interior: White Semi-Aniline Leather with Bamboo Layering Trim
Range & Efficiency
Canada (NRCAN Est.): 444 km (Dual-Motor AWD)
United States (EPA Est.): ~276 miles (Dual-Motor AWD) / ~307 miles (Single-Motor FWD 350e)
Charging Specs & Capabilities
Charge Port: Native North American Charging System (NACS) – direct Tesla Supercharger access without an adapter
Plug & Charge: Supported on compatible public fast-charging networks
DC Fast Charging (Level 3): Up to 150 kW peak rate (10% to 80% in approx. 28–30 minutes)
AC Home Charging (Level 2): 11 kW onboard charger (0% to 100% in approx. 7 hours at 240V / 48A)
Included Equipment: Dual-voltage portable charging cable (120V Level 1 / 240V Level 2)
Pricing Breakdown
Canada (CAD):
Base MSRP (Signature AWD): $65,525.00
Luxury+ Package (As Tested): $12,260.00
Freight & PDI / Fees: $2,347.56
Total Tested Price: $80,132.56 CAD
United States (USD Est.):
Base MSRP (Premium): ~$50,500 USD
ES 500e Luxury AWD (As Tested Equivalent): ~$60,295 USD
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