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The 2026 Lexus ES Has Many Electrified Trims, but Only One Is the Smart Buy

By Cody Carlson Autoblog

Updated June 14, 2026 9:48 PM

Hybrid vs. BEV ES models: a split strategy that isn't as clean as it sounds

The 2026 Lexus ES has made a splash as the first ES model with an exclusively electrified lineup of hybrids and BEVs (battery electric vehicles). There are technically four ES hybrid configurations, but only two true trims with the ES 350h Premium and Premium+, both of which are available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Explore a detailed look at the 2026 ES specs and cabin highlights, including efficiency, transmission, driver aids, and comfort features, below, to streamline your buying decision.

ES 350h Premium - ($50,995 starting MSRP) vs. ES 350h Premium+ - ($55,795 starting MSRP)

It's essential to note that the ES 350h Premium and Premium+ trims share identical powertrains, so you won't have to worry about sacrificing horsepower or torque with the less-expensive Premium. The 350h's powertrain delivers 244 net combined horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. However, opting for the AWD Premium gives you a 7.1-second 0-60 mph time that's 0.2-second better than its FWD counterpart. Outside of that, the real comparison is between the Premium and Premium+, and opting for the more expensive Premium+ primarily pays off with tech. Driver-assist capabilities in the Premium+ are noticeably better, adding a panoramic view monitor, advanced automatic parking, and traffic jam assist with hands-free steering, braking, and acceleration. The Premium+ complements these driver-assist systems with a head-up display and digital rearview mirror for increased environmental awareness. While Lexus limiting some of these features to the Premium+ doesn't come as a surprise, some may be disappointed that the base 350h Premium doesn't offer digital key compatibility. The entry-level Premium's 10-speaker sound system also pales in comparison to the Premium+'s 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio setup.

Now that we've covered what the 350h Premium lacks compared to the Premium+, let's take a closer look at the key features it does offer. The Premium's factory 19-inch Gray Metallic finish alloy wheels help establish the ES's luxury persona, along with auto-folding heated side mirrors. Other exterior features, such as a power trunk, moonroof, and rain-sensing wipers, enhance convenience. Inside, 10-way power-heated/ventilated front seats feel far from bare-bones, and luxury essentials like large displays (a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14-inch touchscreen) are included. Besides the Premium+'s advanced driver-assist additions mentioned above, safety is equivalent between the Premium and Premium+. However, your desire (or lack of) for more capable driver-assist features is also the core area influencing your choice. In other words, the Premium doesn't compromise driver-assist features excessively, but the Premium+ makes noteworthy strides.

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ES 350e Premium vs. ES 350e Luxury - ($48,795 starting MSRP) / ($57,195 starting MSRP)

The 2026 Lexus ES 350e Premium and ES 350e Luxury both feature FWD, identical power (221 horsepower, 198.1 lb-ft of torque), and the same 307-mile range. However, their differences are more nuanced than the hybrid ES line. For example, the ES 350e Premium and 350e Luxury each have LED headlights, but the 350e Luxury's offer static auto-leveling, reducing glare for other drivers, complemented by cornering lamps. You can also equip the ES 350e Luxury's power trunk with a kick sensor. There's a clear divide between these two grades regarding interior opulence, as the 350e Luxury distinguishes its cabin with bamboo-layered door trim, 14-way power front seats rather than 10-way, and semi-aniline leather instead of synthetic leather. Comfort is further elevated in the ES 350e Luxury via a driver's seat power cushion extender. Despite some desirable features, such as heated/ventilated rear outboard seats and dual wireless phone chargers, being optional in the ES 350e Luxury, this trim's standard interior offerings don't cut corners. On the other hand, the ES 350e aligns with the 350h Premium trim, besides being fully electric, so if you're looking to maximize savings on a new luxury BEV, the ES 350e Premium is the smarter choice.

ES 500e Premium / ES 500e Luxury - ($51,795 starting MSRP / $60,195 starting MSRP)

Moving up into ES 500e territory makes AWD standard and substantially increases horsepower to 338, resulting in a 5.1-second 0-60 mph time. While these are two significant performance upgrades, the differences between the 500e Premium and 500e Luxury align with the ones you'd see between the 350e Premium and 350e Luxury. Additionally, opting for more power and AWD makes a noticeable dent in range, with drivers getting up to 276 miles per charge.

Final thoughts

The Lexus ES 350e Premium stands out as the best buy among all 2026 ES options with its competitive 307-mile range, premium essentials like a large 14-inch touchscreen, and power that's sufficient for daily needs, despite falling short of the 500e. As electrification expands, plenty of shoppers considering electrified luxury sedans prefer value over excess, and the 350e expertly executes this mindset. Be sure to test drive the 2026 Lexus ES 350e before making a purchase, and check out Road Ethos for more car buying guides.

This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 9:31 PM.