Kirk I'm gonna be completely honest. This is EXACTLY what i was expecting. This is a similar slight refresh that they call a redesign that we got for the Camry. I'm assuming they'll update the interior and add the 5th gen hybrid to it and call it a day for the American market And if I'm being honest its still gonna sell well.
Current es is a excellent luxury sedan and doesn't need too many changes whatsoever. Change for north America Will be the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus a new interior . Just like you said. Again there is no reason for Lexus to mess with the formula that is working.
Yes, slight refresh like this ChDM inside and out, but the enhanced 4th gen 350h from the NX would be fine for the powertrain and a welcome performance boost. Don’t think sedan sales warrant a more expensive and extensive redesign.
Sleek, nice review. I'm still loving my 2002 ES300, 4th gen ES. Amazing build quality. I'm the 2nd owner with 186k miles. I change my own oil. The 1MZ-FE engine doesn't burn any oil between my 5k Pennzoil Platinum high mileage synthetic oil changes. Not a creak or rattle, every switch/button still works like new. It wIll out live me at 60 yrs young !!
I still think that ES design is only for the Chinese market. A few years ago they released that picture with all the BEVs and in the back, they had all the current Lexus lineup, but with updates and I think that's how the ES will look like for the other markets
Very nice refresh. That's what I like about lexus, every year mild updates. This ES is the best build E segment luxury sedan money can buy. Far better build than Mercedes E class and new Bmw 5 series.
@@romairoblackstock5100 Yep, was expecting a redesigned dash, they should see what Genesis is doing with the 27" rap around in the GV80 and G80. Just such a smooth look and feel. Was expecting Lexus to upgrade their game and I am looking at Genesis now reluctantly as I can't wait around for Lexus to catch up now that they have fallen behind.
I think there should be more than just three trim levels. I think there should be at least maybe four or five I feel like if Toyota applied their trim grades from the Camry to the other models, especially their SUV lineups. I think it would be beneficial because you can’t get all the features on a XSE RAV4 from the limited trim but when you look at the Camry, the XSE trim level gets all the features pretty much from the XLE some people want all the bells and whistles in a sporty package that’s why I think the Camry trim level lineup is genius I hope Toyota doesn’t get rid of some of their special models like nightshade I think instead of an actual trim level it should just be an appearance package, but I feel like the nightshade models kind of make them more mid grade/more basic models feel more unique and special
Hey Kirk, just wanted to say that I appreciate the quality and quantity of your output. The effort you put in to deciphering the 'market speak' and giving the quoted numbers context, drawing on your trade experience, is obvious. As a Lexus owner and fan I especially appreciate your marque expertise. Thanks man 👌
I miss the old mechanical processes of a car like a shift lever you can grab onto with your whole hand and hand brakes. Buttons on a dashboard or keys you need to turn to start the car.
Owned ESs since 2002. My wife keeps her car cars for at least 10 years and averages around 160,000 miles. So we’re are probably not the typical ES owners. We had a couple of large repairs this year so we decided to consider a new one and were extremely disappointed by the exterior and interior design and we read that there was a major redesign happening in 2026. So we decided to get the repairs done and wait to see the 2026 update. If this is it, we will be looking at Acura, Genesis, Mercedes and BMW.
This ES update is only for the Chinese market and not North America. North America version will get AWD and new Camry hybrid engine. Current Es has a excellent interior and exterior design very much a baby LS . Miles better than any g80.stop overreacting over a Chinese only affair
My Lexus dealer told me the ES for 26 will have a fully electric model. So no, I don't think this is it for the 26 model year. He also told me it's going to be slightly longer and wider than the current one. I have a 2013 worth 165k on it and I still love it!
Typical Lexus, always 5+ years behind and they can't even make the excuse that it will last longer when Toyota has had a slew of recalls and major issues as of late. Honestly Acura and Mercedes are your best bets.
Regarding Lexus RZ even the current RZ300e has CATL battery. The price reduction is not because of using chinese parts but rather they just now reflecting costs coming down internally. That's the whole beauty of the Toyota plan, after all. At no point do they ever need to dip into negative margin territory for markets like the US, since hybrids keep them well within compliance for EPA CAFE.
The Toyota / Lexus hybrid drive train is pretty close to the pinnacle of engineering when it comes to internal combustion engines and how much efficiency you can get out of them while maintaining comfort and enough power AND reliability. Why would they change that? EV power trains are great, but the infrastructure and global market is far from ready for full electrification-I think Toyota knows that.
Please be serious. No one is asking Toyota to change their power train. It's the interior that needs updating. The interior is extremely outdated, the screen and knobs they have in the new Lexus looks like it belongs in a Ford Escape. It doesn't look luxury and I can't see how an updated interior would make the car less reliable.
It's a new trim level for the RZ Kirk lol. It even says that in the article. It has two trims currently and will get a third for 2025. Looks like it'll now be standard, premium, luxury on the 300e and 450e.
Interesting, the top of the grill matches the cars body color. If you select the brochure from the Lexus China website and enlarge pg.5 you can see 2 physical controls on the drivers side of the the volume nob. The 2 to the passengers side are unlabeled(odd). Looks like we're getting the RX's screen. Kirk single-handedly gets Lexus to retain a physical clock! It would be nice if the ES could achieve the status of the 2025 Corolla. Corolla safety sense 3.0, 2025 Lexus ES 2.5. Wife's beloved and reliable 2015 ES needs to be replaced with an ES that has Traffic Jam Assist available. Koji Sato, I'm still waiting...
I fully agree on the physical buttons. I very much prefer them. When you're driving you want to adjust everything quickly and easily so as not to lose focus. It's a safety issue. I hate how that large screen looks. It ruins the interior. What I like about the non-touch screen of my 4th gen Lexus GS is that it's so seamlessly integrated with the dashboard making the interior design much nicer. What I would prefer instead of the clunky mouse is a dial with which to move through the menus like in some German cars.
I love my 2019 es v6 , the only thing I hate is heated seats aren't hot enough , base headlights suck, and when you remote start it cuts off when you open door , I'm keeping my 2019 but am looking for a new es
You are absolutely correct 💯. Current es is already a excellent luxury sedan and doesn't need too many changes whatsoever. Even this update is only for the Chinese market. North America will the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus a new interior.
@@richaquila2655Yes, I actually do like this car, no matter what opinion you have about it. ES is supposed to appeal to older people with more money to spend anyway. Let the young ones keep buying their German stuff.
4:23 I actually quite like this red, the F-sport red is too loud for me. They did have ambient lighting on the dash, my 2021 Ultra Luxury has it. Also they got rid of the track pad in 2023, I've actually been considering getting a newer one because I want the touch screen. I like the new headlights it reminds me of the LS and i want to put the new blade tail lights on my 2021.
A couple comments - there's no way the RZ battery change alone was a $10k cost reduction. They're also cutting some of their price/profit because its just not selling. And yes there are too many Toyota trim levels. Mazda too. Honda has cut theirs back years ago. Its more efficient not having additional packages and trim levels. And then in their last year or two, they sometimes intro an special edition trim. I'm guessing that's what happened to the RAV4 to keep sales up.
The rear lightbar and written script logo are steps backwards for me. These are both very 'trendy' items that lots of automakers are doing at the moment and therefore will get old very quickly - they do not advance design and they will look very dated soon.
Upcoming Es will be only available with the new Camry hybrid and AWD. V6 is totally unnecessary and not required. If Lexus really wants more power they can use the rx500h 366hp engine.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Your first sentence and your second sentence have nothing to do wth each other. Yes, future ES's won't have a V6, because emissions laws will force it out. Yet, buyers like trainsandlocomotives and myself believe the V6 IS necessary to make this car behave like a luxury car should. You can make a four-banger hybrid powerful, but you can't make it melodious.
@@tonysterbenc 1. New turbo I4 and hybrid turbo I4 engines are miles better than any V6 in every level from refinement power performance plus more. This is 2024 and not 1990. 2. Full majority of buyers and people don't care if a v6 is there or not. You two hardcore enthusiast online are stuck in the past .Overall get with the times or at least stop using cliches.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI We may be wrong, but we're not alone. Here's Savagegeese in 2022: ""The (ES 350's) naturally aspirated V6 is something that people are going to miss when it is gone. No four-cylinder or turbocharged four-cylinder can replace the refinement, smoothness and the harmonics it produces."
@@tonysterbenc you are absolutely 1.8 million times wrong and Once again using invalid cliches. I4/ turbo I4/hybrid turbo I4 have replaced v6s and no one will miss it. Expect small nanometer set of people like you online who is stuck in the past.
Toyota should consider adding a liftback variant in its next iteration of the ES, wagons' existence is gradually becoming a norm even in some developing markets.
Yeah I have a 23 ES 300h. This is the pinnacle if you like all physical climate controls and real seat heating/cooling and steering wheel heat buttons, physical drive mode knobs, dual function volume and tuner knob, always on analog clock, full size shifter, physical door handles, no track pad, wireless phone charger, wireless Apple and Google car play. But I'm not gonna lie, I also have a 23 RX 350h that has the "updated" infotainment with less physical climate controls and push button door handles and I don't mind it at all. The climate control touch screen buttons are always available and there's still a physical temperature knob. The full size shifter in the ES is nice but you get used to the Prius shifter.
2025 ES also is the same as the 23-24. Updated infotainment. I have the 24Es350 and likely last ES I’ll have if they go all hybrid. Had a hybrid loaner when I took mine in for service and absolutely hated how it drove when accelerating as well as stop and go traffic “hybrid noises”.
That is a great feedback about hybrid noises. I like my car to be a bit sporty and less NVH. I drive an accord which is can be noisy on bad roads with tire noise. My wife has a hybrid CRV the new generation. I love the engine and how it takes off but I have heard the engine noise is bad when going up a hill. I have yet to test that.
This facelift is only for the Chinese market and North America. So this video or car has nothing to do with north America whatsoever. Upcoming Es is going to all new. based on the new Camry hybrid with AWD. Importantly a new interior..
Im not liking it. Im with you. I want good knobs. Not a lot. just my high hit touch points please. Give a good heft and feel like a classic Japanese 80's receiver. If you've ever touched one you know exactly what i mean. If you haven't... sorry you just don't know.
Kirk, If they are going to reduce variations, they should start by making every Corolla the Touring Sports wagon that our European cousins love!! 😍🥰😍As Toyota's first global TNGA platforms are so woefully undersized, the next universal platform should be suitable for the kind of folks you find at an All-You-Can-Eat-Buffet in Kansas rather than a gymnastics tournament in Kyoto. 😉In regard to Toyota's plant utilization, there is a fine line between avoiding wasteful overcapacity and losing billions in sales by failing to meet consumer demand for your products. We also have to recognize the reality these days, government subsidies (corporate welfare) rather than company cash cover a big chunk of the cost of building new auto plants. Toyota ought to strike while the iron is hot and the welfare checks are HUGE and build plants now!! 🤑🤑
Current Es is still perfectly up to date and doesn't really need a redesign. This update is only for the Chinese market were brands update interior and exterior design regularly while keeping same engines. Specialy when it comes to screens. They absolutely love them over buttons. Overall this is not the version coming to north America anyway.
@ it’s out of date. No AWD for the hybrid model and still has the old generation Lexus interior. Same old car for a new price. Buying used is a different story
@@user-FTRU6GJ this only for the Chinese market. North America will get AWD plus the new Camry hybrid engine. Importantly a brand new interior as well. Overall current es is not outdated whatsoever still a excellent luxury sedan overall. So don't take the Chinese only affair has a possible North American update .
Wouldn't work, because the platform lacks the space for AWD with a big engine. FWD with 400 HP would melt the tires while leaving you at the starting line.
That is because its small update for the Chinese market and nothing more. North America is a getting all new gen with the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus New interior. As a 2026 model most likely. Don't take this update very seriously
Not excited, it means im gonna keep my 2022 ES , because this refresh doesnt excite me and im willing to wait to see if the 2026 model make major changes.
Proper AWD 3.0 + twin turbo would give this car what it always needed. But it will never happen.. ES replaced GS. Except it didn't. And that is the biggest issue I have with it. Other than that - better than German. Better looking and it might sirvive warranty period.. Concept unknown in Germany. Wonder why they are going bust..
new es very much replaced the GS in every level From luxury comfort refinement quality tech and more. If Lexus really want to give more power than can use the rx500h 366hp engine as a option. But its unnecessary and not required.
Lexus made the ES a little less sharp for 2026. Agree about the less classy headlights. Lightbars are cliche at this point and I still maintain the spelling out the brand name in lieu of the brand logo is one of the worst design trends in vehicles today. As for the interior, I appreciate that they maintained the normal door handles. And it's a good thing that bamboo trim is still here but yeah, that red is atrocious. All in all, what a weird refresh for Lexus' best-selling sedan. China is a lucrative market so I'd expect Lexus would actually release an ALL-NEW model by now. I think that the RZ's price cut actually makes it even more appealing than the bZ4x but of course, there are much much better options.
current ES is perfectly upto date and doesn't need a redesign but small update like the camry got. Which is what coming to north America. This es is a Chinese market ONLY affair.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Let's be real here. The ES, while still perfectly handsome, is already seven years old at this point and is in dire need for more powertrain options. Isn't it just ridiculous that Lexus' answer to the 5 Series and E-Class only offers AWD with the 2.5l NA engine?!
@@mark_u only powertrain the ES needs is the new Camry hybrid and AWD . because the ES formula is all about comfort luxury refinement quality tech and mpg. Its not trying to be a GS like vehicle were it was a sporty rwd luxury 5 series rival. instead comfort and luxury focused rival. Gs was a sales flop in the end. Overall if Lexus really want to put more power. They can use the rx500h engine- 366hp or even the V6 PHEV404hp.But its unnecessary and for a vehicle that is sporty has King Charles .
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Lexus had to promote the ES as its official midsize sedan with the demise of the GS and that should have meant a more diverse selection of powertrains and expanded availability of AWD. The ES is long overdue for the 2.5l PHEV or the RX's 2.4l turbo hybrid. Expanded powertrain choices shouldn't necessarily mean a change in character for the ES. I mean the RX isn't suddenly transformed into a sports crossover with the 500h variant, right?
@@mark_u Lexus did promote the Es. has the only mid size sedan and its selling very well while Achieving sales figures that the GS couldn't ever dream of. let's say the Rx500h 366hp option is cool but overall just purely unnecessary and make it too expensive. There is a another quality which makes the Es popular that is value and price . Overall I get were you are coming from but look at pathetic sales figures of the g80 which has multiple engine choices and its rwd yet they only sold 312 or 274 cars per month. Rx500h is very much a entry level high performance SUV like a MDX type s.
This is not good news. I have the 2019 es and been waiting for a new redesign since 2023. The pandemic pushed it back to 2024 then 25 came and nothing and I was almost 100% sure it would completely redesigned for 2026 but again it like no change. The only difference I see is the bar stop light and the big screen. Same body. Very disappointed..
35% less parts variety mean Lexus will look more like Toyotas, pretty sure the price won't reflect the change. Expect more plastics in Lexus, I mean, we already see it now.
ES gets a very good update and its better than ever. Better than any g80 and others ❤. Importantly this update is only for the Chinese market. One thats north America will get .is going to be different.
11:10 God i hope those are Japanese cars not US. China made batteries have a terrible tendency to have thermal runaways, in fact do some research and report on all the BYD dealerships that have gone up in flames in the past year. Seriously go look. Come back and tell me your ok w/ that.
😂😂. Interior in the es extremely luxurious refined high quality and more. Good as any Mercedes or BMW. Most silly comment ever. Sounds like a old fashioned fifth gear host
Upcoming north American Es with its new Camry hybrid engine and AWD is perfectly fine plus more than enough. If Lexus really want to put more power than the rx500h 366hp is a better option. Considering Toyota/Lexus is now focusing hybrid more than ever.
Exterior is too too gimmicky, creases for the sake of creases. The handheld vacuum cleaner Grille, way over the top, much prefer the understated Volvo Grille, especially the new XC90. For a sedan, can’t beat my S60.
If Toyota wants to sell more than 11 million vehicles per year, then the price tag needs to decrease. Those manufacturing cost reductions must be passed onto consumers not shareholders’ profits. Sounds like they want to have their cake and eat it too.
Kirk I'm gonna be completely honest. This is EXACTLY what i was expecting. This is a similar slight refresh that they call a redesign that we got for the Camry. I'm assuming they'll update the interior and add the 5th gen hybrid to it and call it a day for the American market And if I'm being honest its still gonna sell well.
Current es is a excellent luxury sedan and doesn't need too many changes whatsoever. Change for north America Will be the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus a new interior . Just like you said. Again there is no reason for Lexus to mess with the formula that is working.
Yea timeless design needs no drastic change.
Yes, slight refresh like this ChDM inside and out, but the enhanced 4th gen 350h from the NX would be fine for the powertrain and a welcome performance boost. Don’t think sedan sales warrant a more expensive and extensive redesign.
Doubt they’ll even update the powertrains
@@hayden93 upcoming Es is going to have the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD without a question. Because its doesn't take too much work for them
Sleek, nice review. I'm still loving my 2002 ES300, 4th gen ES. Amazing build quality. I'm the 2nd owner with 186k miles. I change my own oil. The 1MZ-FE engine doesn't burn any oil between my 5k Pennzoil Platinum high mileage synthetic oil changes. Not a creak or rattle, every switch/button still works like new. It wIll out live me at 60 yrs young !!
Do the rear seats fold down on the 2026? Thank you!
I still think that ES design is only for the Chinese market. A few years ago they released that picture with all the BEVs and in the back, they had all the current Lexus lineup, but with updates and I think that's how the ES will look like for the other markets
This update is only for the Chinese market and not North America. North America version will go full hybrid with new Camry engine plus AWD.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI And retain physical buttons I hope...
I’m happy they added an indoor pool and the ability to drive itself in full autonomous mode. I’d like them to add a spa in 2027.
I beg your pardon?
@@nullravager The product has a pool in the basement area and it is gold plated. I hope that helped.
They should also add heated floors in 2027
@@K3b1bisLtu wrong. This will upset Timmy Hotfoot.
Very nice refresh. That's what I like about lexus, every year mild updates. This ES is the best build E segment luxury sedan money can buy. Far better build than Mercedes E class and new Bmw 5 series.
You are absolutely correct 💯 my friend.
I like it. I hope we get it in the US
All I want is a new IS !
long live the 500
Exterior for that refreshed ES looks cool, but interior was best in pre-facelift (2020), it was only missing wireless apple carplay
wireless apple carplay is really easy to fix with a dongle on amazon.
No this isn't the 2026 ES. This is the 2025 ES for ChDM.
If this doesn't come to America I'm going to get out the pitchforks.
@@ethanmckibbin I am pretty sure the US market would prefer a completely redesigned Lexus ES instead of this
@@ethanmckibbinonly for China
@@romairoblackstock5100 not if it's a 4cyl only or electric
@@romairoblackstock5100 Yep, was expecting a redesigned dash, they should see what Genesis is doing with the 27" rap around in the GV80 and G80. Just such a smooth look and feel. Was expecting Lexus to upgrade their game and I am looking at Genesis now reluctantly as I can't wait around for Lexus to catch up now that they have fallen behind.
I think there should be more than just three trim levels. I think there should be at least maybe four or five I feel like if Toyota applied their trim grades from the Camry to the other models, especially their SUV lineups. I think it would be beneficial because you can’t get all the features on a XSE RAV4 from the limited trim but when you look at the Camry, the XSE trim level gets all the features pretty much from the XLE some people want all the bells and whistles in a sporty package that’s why I think the Camry trim level lineup is genius I hope Toyota doesn’t get rid of some of their special models like nightshade I think instead of an actual trim level it should just be an appearance package, but I feel like the nightshade models kind of make them more mid grade/more basic models feel more unique and special
Hey Kirk, just wanted to say that I appreciate the quality and quantity of your output. The effort you put in to deciphering the 'market speak' and giving the quoted numbers context, drawing on your trade experience, is obvious. As a Lexus owner and fan I especially appreciate your marque expertise. Thanks man 👌
Thanks mate
👏👏👏👏
I miss the old mechanical processes of a car like a shift lever you can grab onto with your whole hand and hand brakes. Buttons on a dashboard or keys you need to turn to start the car.
Me too, there is something so reassuring about resting my hand on my gear lever, feels like I am actively engaged in operating my car.
That's why I bought a new GS back in 18 because I knew a lot of the traditional features would go away. Currently at 15k miles and still love it.
Oh wow, new headlights design. Wow, amazing definitely worth the wait
Inside Toyota's (well established) interior design department's meeting: "Yes! red, black AND BROWN goes amazing together! We win!".
Dig the way Lexus vehicles talk to each other.
Owned ESs since 2002. My wife keeps her car cars for at least 10 years and averages around 160,000 miles. So we’re are probably not the typical ES owners. We had a couple of large repairs this year so we decided to consider a new one and were extremely disappointed by the exterior and interior design and we read that there was a major redesign happening in 2026. So we decided to get the repairs done and wait to see the 2026 update. If this is it, we will be looking at Acura, Genesis, Mercedes and BMW.
This ES update is only for the Chinese market and not North America. North America version will get AWD and new Camry hybrid engine. Current Es has a excellent interior and exterior design very much a baby LS . Miles better than any g80.stop overreacting over a Chinese only affair
My Lexus dealer told me the ES for 26 will have a fully electric model. So no, I don't think this is it for the 26 model year. He also told me it's going to be slightly longer and wider than the current one. I have a 2013 worth 165k on it and I still love it!
@@lorabecka6177 you are absolutely correct 💯. This is just a Chinese market ONLY affair and nothing more
Typical Lexus, always 5+ years behind and they can't even make the excuse that it will last longer when Toyota has had a slew of recalls and major issues as of late. Honestly Acura and Mercedes are your best bets.
What could you possibly need before 160k on a lexus? Was it suspension work?
Regarding Lexus RZ even the current RZ300e has CATL battery. The price reduction is not because of using chinese parts but rather they just now reflecting costs coming down internally. That's the whole beauty of the Toyota plan, after all. At no point do they ever need to dip into negative margin territory for markets like the US, since hybrids keep them well within compliance for EPA CAFE.
The Toyota / Lexus hybrid drive train is pretty close to the pinnacle of engineering when it comes to internal combustion engines and how much efficiency you can get out of them while maintaining comfort and enough power AND reliability. Why would they change that? EV power trains are great, but the infrastructure and global market is far from ready for full electrification-I think Toyota knows that.
Please be serious. No one is asking Toyota to change their power train. It's the interior that needs updating. The interior is extremely outdated, the screen and knobs they have in the new Lexus looks like it belongs in a Ford Escape. It doesn't look luxury and I can't see how an updated interior would make the car less reliable.
Pinnacle of engineering? As far as hybrid efficiency goes, but as far as pure ICE they aren't even close.
Lexus sure loves sharp angles and pointy styling.
I love it too
They need to simplify models. Some models have more than 1 “Fsport” trim that are performance in badge only.
It's a new trim level for the RZ Kirk lol. It even says that in the article. It has two trims currently and will get a third for 2025. Looks like it'll now be standard, premium, luxury on the 300e and 450e.
Why is it taking so long for the 4Runner to come out?
I'm Glad it's delayed...Toyota can't afford any more rushed and defective new model introductions.
@ That certainly is true, and I’m very disappointed in Toyota. The question is why, are they rushed and defective new model introductions.
I prefer the current version, inside and out. Thought, wouldn't mind the reddish interior minus the bamboo.
Interesting, the top of the grill matches the cars body color. If you select the brochure from the Lexus China website and enlarge pg.5 you can see 2 physical controls on the drivers side of the the volume nob. The 2 to the passengers side are unlabeled(odd). Looks like we're getting the RX's screen. Kirk single-handedly gets Lexus to retain a physical clock! It would be nice if the ES could achieve the status of the 2025 Corolla. Corolla safety sense 3.0, 2025 Lexus ES 2.5. Wife's beloved and reliable 2015 ES needs to be replaced with an ES that has Traffic Jam Assist available. Koji Sato, I'm still waiting...
The ES won't be a timeless design as long as it has the clock.
I think that the refreshed ES will find a few customers worldwide 🤔
Where is the tx350 have they released them yet
I fully agree on the physical buttons. I very much prefer them. When you're driving you want to adjust everything quickly and easily so as not to lose focus. It's a safety issue.
I hate how that large screen looks. It ruins the interior. What I like about the non-touch screen of my 4th gen Lexus GS is that it's so seamlessly integrated with the dashboard making the interior design much nicer. What I would prefer instead of the clunky mouse is a dial with which to move through the menus like in some German cars.
The interior seems way too complicated on the ES. I'm hoping Lexus can actually bring in something new for their sedans.
The next ES needs a button to shut trunk from inside.
I love my 2019 es v6 , the only thing I hate is heated seats aren't hot enough , base headlights suck, and when you remote start it cuts off when you open door , I'm keeping my 2019 but am looking for a new es
Why fix it if it ain’t broke? ES is a great car already.
You are absolutely correct 💯. Current es is already a excellent luxury sedan and doesn't need too many changes whatsoever. Even this update is only for the Chinese market. North America will the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus a new interior.
If you like a car that screams old man!!
@@richaquila2655Yes, I actually do like this car, no matter what opinion you have about it. ES is supposed to appeal to older people with more money to spend anyway. Let the young ones keep buying their German stuff.
All I wanted to see is for the ES to finally get folding back seats. Otherwise I might as well stick with the Camry.
The ES has chosen additional structural bracing over rear-seat folding ability for over 30 years. Your expectation was never likely to happen.
Red is a lucky color for Chinese. Maybe it didnèt test well for the car though.
Glad I went with BMW instead of waiting in Lexus refreshed ES so disappointed
Amazing 🔥
4:23 I actually quite like this red, the F-sport red is too loud for me. They did have ambient lighting on the dash, my 2021 Ultra Luxury has it. Also they got rid of the track pad in 2023, I've actually been considering getting a newer one because I want the touch screen. I like the new headlights it reminds me of the LS and i want to put the new blade tail lights on my 2021.
Has there been any more info released since this video? Im in the market to buy an ES and didn't know about these changes for 2026. Im in CA.
4:22 I love the red with wood looks very classy
The read?
Bring back the CT 200h with the Camry 2025 engine and the quietness of an LS400. Chef’s kiss! I’d buy it for 40-45k on the spot
They should have given a turbo-I6 mild hybrid option along with AWD.
Would have made the drivetrain much more smooth
13:20 I expect the redesigned 2026 Rav4 to drop down to 4 trims: LE, XLE, XSE and Limited
Upcoming RAV4 is going hybrid only and I will say it will have just 3 Trim levels.
Maybe SE too, since it’s the base model for the xse
If only they'd make the grille less obnoxious.
A couple comments - there's no way the RZ battery change alone was a $10k cost reduction. They're also cutting some of their price/profit because its just not selling. And yes there are too many Toyota trim levels. Mazda too. Honda has cut theirs back years ago. Its more efficient not having additional packages and trim levels. And then in their last year or two, they sometimes intro an special edition trim. I'm guessing that's what happened to the RAV4 to keep sales up.
Kirk, you should review the toyota crown sedan when you're in Japan.
We're in November 2024 and yet a 2026 model is out? It doesn't make sense. This should've been the 2025 model.
This update is only for the Chinese market and nothing to with north America whatsoever .
The rear lightbar and written script logo are steps backwards for me. These are both very 'trendy' items that lots of automakers are doing at the moment and therefore will get old very quickly - they do not advance design and they will look very dated soon.
Does anyone know when the GX Hybrid will be released? It's taking too long!
I think it’s nice but I hope they keep the v6
Upcoming Es will be only available with the new Camry hybrid and AWD. V6 is totally unnecessary and not required. If Lexus really wants more power they can use the rx500h 366hp engine.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Your first sentence and your second sentence have nothing to do wth each other. Yes, future ES's won't have a V6, because emissions laws will force it out. Yet, buyers like trainsandlocomotives and myself believe the V6 IS necessary to make this car behave like a luxury car should. You can make a four-banger hybrid powerful, but you can't make it melodious.
@@tonysterbenc 1. New turbo I4 and hybrid turbo I4 engines are miles better than any V6 in every level from refinement power performance plus more. This is 2024 and not 1990. 2. Full majority of buyers and people don't care if a v6 is there or not. You two hardcore enthusiast online are stuck in the past .Overall get with the times or at least stop using cliches.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI We may be wrong, but we're not alone. Here's Savagegeese in 2022: ""The (ES 350's) naturally aspirated V6 is something that people are going to miss when it is gone. No four-cylinder or turbocharged four-cylinder can replace the refinement, smoothness and the harmonics it produces."
@@tonysterbenc you are absolutely 1.8 million times wrong and Once again using invalid cliches. I4/ turbo I4/hybrid turbo I4 have replaced v6s and no one will miss it. Expect small nanometer set of people like you online who is stuck in the past.
I wonder if Lexus is ever going to add an auto-pilot steering option?
Toyota should consider adding a liftback variant in its next iteration of the ES, wagons' existence is gradually becoming a norm even in some developing markets.
Other luxury brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes and .......Volvo sell wagons. why shouldn't Lexus?
Two words: Crown Signia.
RC stands for radio controlled, right?
I like the new 2026 ES refresh. Getting tired of the spindel grill.
When will this 2026 design be coming to USA? Middle or late 2025 I’m guessing?
So the 2023-2024 is the year to get
@@johnstark98 no because the other one doesn’t have an updated headlight
Yeah I have a 23 ES 300h. This is the pinnacle if you like all physical climate controls and real seat heating/cooling and steering wheel heat buttons, physical drive mode knobs, dual function volume and tuner knob, always on analog clock, full size shifter, physical door handles, no track pad, wireless phone charger, wireless Apple and Google car play.
But I'm not gonna lie, I also have a 23 RX 350h that has the "updated" infotainment with less physical climate controls and push button door handles and I don't mind it at all. The climate control touch screen buttons are always available and there's still a physical temperature knob. The full size shifter in the ES is nice but you get used to the Prius shifter.
@@omnimoeishwhich one is quieter with tire noise, RX or ES?
2025 ES also is the same as the 23-24. Updated infotainment. I have the 24Es350 and likely last ES I’ll have if they go all hybrid. Had a hybrid loaner when I took mine in for service and absolutely hated how it drove when accelerating as well as stop and go traffic “hybrid noises”.
That is a great feedback about hybrid noises. I like my car to be a bit sporty and less NVH. I drive an accord which is can be noisy on bad roads with tire noise. My wife has a hybrid CRV the new generation. I love the engine and how it takes off but I have heard the engine noise is bad when going up a hill. I have yet to test that.
Why is there a second facelift with barely any changes. I think it would be an instant buy for me and others if it was a complete resdesign.
This facelift is only for the Chinese market and North America. So this video or car has nothing to do with north America whatsoever. Upcoming Es is going to all new. based on the new Camry hybrid with AWD. Importantly a new interior..
Im not liking it. Im with you. I want good knobs. Not a lot. just my high hit touch points please. Give a good heft and feel like a classic Japanese 80's receiver. If you've ever touched one you know exactly what i mean. If you haven't... sorry you just don't know.
Can we go back to having bumpers in cars instead of oversized grills that hide the bumper?
Agree this interior not the best Lexus could do. They need to do over that dash. But I still love the exterior of the ES
Kirk, If they are going to reduce variations, they should start by making every Corolla the Touring Sports wagon that our European cousins love!! 😍🥰😍As Toyota's first global TNGA platforms are so woefully undersized, the next universal platform should be suitable for the kind of folks you find at an All-You-Can-Eat-Buffet in Kansas rather than a gymnastics tournament in Kyoto. 😉In regard to Toyota's plant utilization, there is a fine line between avoiding wasteful overcapacity and losing billions in sales by failing to meet consumer demand for your products. We also have to recognize the reality these days, government subsidies (corporate welfare) rather than company cash cover a big chunk of the cost of building new auto plants. Toyota ought to strike while the iron is hot and the welfare checks are HUGE and build plants now!! 🤑🤑
Kirk, this refreshed ES interior is not really "elegant' of course it is subjective, but the dashboard looks cheap in my opinion
Only care about the LS. Please keep me posted when you know if it's being approved going forward or cancelled like the GS.
Let me help. You've seen the last iteration of a gas-powered LS sedan.
The es seems pretty cool
Kirk is the V6 going to be in the 2026 ES or is it DOA.
Used ES hybrid with low miles can be had in the low/mid 30k range. Great buy. The ES is dated and needed a full redesign. This update is kinda sad
Current Es is still perfectly up to date and doesn't really need a redesign. This update is only for the Chinese market were brands update interior and exterior design regularly while keeping same engines. Specialy when it comes to screens. They absolutely love them over buttons. Overall this is not the version coming to north America anyway.
@ it’s out of date. No AWD for the hybrid model and still has the old generation Lexus interior. Same old car for a new price. Buying used is a different story
@@user-FTRU6GJ this only for the Chinese market. North America will get AWD plus the new Camry hybrid engine. Importantly a brand new interior as well. Overall current es is not outdated whatsoever still a excellent luxury sedan overall. So don't take the Chinese only affair has a possible North American update .
When people say "it needs a full redesign", they make this Lexus like a Camry.
lol Acura was discontinued in China cause they absolutely suck
Tell Lexus to bring back physical dashboard buttons.
u don't look ridiculous in the title card pic
I'm waiting to see if they build in Japan for es , if they do I will buy if they have v6
lexus needs to stop playing and make a M5 / e63 compeditor. There is a market for it. Take the IS500 V8 and drop it in the ES.
Wouldn't work, because the platform lacks the space for AWD with a big engine. FWD with 400 HP would melt the tires while leaving you at the starting line.
I could hardly tell any difference. Is this really a refresh?
That is because its small update for the Chinese market and nothing more. North America is a getting all new gen with the new Camry hybrid engine and AWD plus New interior. As a 2026 model most likely. Don't take this update very seriously
Not excited, it means im gonna keep my 2022 ES , because this refresh doesnt excite me and im willing to wait to see if the 2026 model make major changes.
this is the asian version refresh i believe
Proper AWD 3.0 + twin turbo would give this car what it always needed. But it will never happen..
ES replaced GS. Except it didn't. And that is the biggest issue I have with it.
Other than that - better than German. Better looking and it might sirvive warranty period.. Concept unknown in Germany. Wonder why they are going bust..
new es very much replaced the GS in every level From luxury comfort refinement quality tech and more. If Lexus really want to give more power than can use the rx500h 366hp engine as a option. But its unnecessary and not required.
Proper AWD? Versus improper?
Just bring back a refreshed Avalon Hybrid.
Prefer to pay the extra10k instead of a Chinese crappy battery!.
Special update to make the grill bigger
I am so glad I got a 2025 ES350 F Sport handling. I like my interior much better than this refresh.
What’s with the home alone thumbnails. This is beneath you Kirk.
Lexus made the ES a little less sharp for 2026. Agree about the less classy headlights. Lightbars are cliche at this point and I still maintain the spelling out the brand name in lieu of the brand logo is one of the worst design trends in vehicles today. As for the interior, I appreciate that they maintained the normal door handles. And it's a good thing that bamboo trim is still here but yeah, that red is atrocious.
All in all, what a weird refresh for Lexus' best-selling sedan. China is a lucrative market so I'd expect Lexus would actually release an ALL-NEW model by now.
I think that the RZ's price cut actually makes it even more appealing than the bZ4x but of course, there are much much better options.
current ES is perfectly upto date and doesn't need a redesign but small update like the camry got. Which is what coming to north America. This es is a Chinese market ONLY affair.
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Let's be real here. The ES, while still perfectly handsome, is already seven years old at this point and is in dire need for more powertrain options. Isn't it just ridiculous that Lexus' answer to the 5 Series and E-Class only offers AWD with the 2.5l NA engine?!
@@mark_u only powertrain the ES needs is the new Camry hybrid and AWD . because the ES formula is all about comfort luxury refinement quality tech and mpg. Its not trying to be a GS like vehicle were it was a sporty rwd luxury 5 series rival. instead comfort and luxury focused rival. Gs was a sales flop in the end. Overall if Lexus really want to put more power. They can use the rx500h engine- 366hp or even the V6 PHEV404hp.But its unnecessary and for a vehicle that is sporty has King Charles .
@@Mylifeislegendary982vd3-vI Lexus had to promote the ES as its official midsize sedan with the demise of the GS and that should have meant a more diverse selection of powertrains and expanded availability of AWD. The ES is long overdue for the 2.5l PHEV or the RX's 2.4l turbo hybrid. Expanded powertrain choices shouldn't necessarily mean a change in character for the ES. I mean the RX isn't suddenly transformed into a sports crossover with the 500h variant, right?
@@mark_u Lexus did promote the Es. has the only mid size sedan and its selling very well while Achieving sales figures that the GS couldn't ever dream of. let's say the Rx500h 366hp option is cool but overall just purely unnecessary and make it too expensive. There is a another quality which makes the Es popular that is value and price . Overall I get were you are coming from but look at pathetic sales figures of the g80 which has multiple engine choices and its rwd yet they only sold 312 or 274 cars per month. Rx500h is very much a entry level high performance SUV like a MDX type s.
Needs 7 inch ground clearance
Yeah, like that hot-selling Crown humpback sedan.
This is not good news. I have the 2019 es and been waiting for a new redesign since 2023. The pandemic pushed it back to 2024 then 25 came and nothing and I was almost 100% sure it would completely redesigned for 2026 but again it like no change. The only difference I see is the bar stop light and the big screen. Same body. Very disappointed..
35% less parts variety mean Lexus will look more like Toyotas, pretty sure the price won't reflect the change. Expect more plastics in Lexus, I mean, we already see it now.
No 12.3 inch digital gauge cluster? wtf
The Camry is way more attractive… so disappointing
Actually, Chinese don't like this design either. About the touch screen, you can use your voice to control it now.
You spoke to them?
@@JohnnyUtah9173 Do you mean the design? Or the screen?
@@HarryLiu-o5h the Chinese
ES gets a very good update and its better than ever. Better than any g80 and others ❤. Importantly this update is only for the Chinese market. One thats north America will get .is going to be different.
11:10 God i hope those are Japanese cars not US. China made batteries have a terrible tendency to have thermal runaways, in fact do some research and report on all the BYD dealerships that have gone up in flames in the past year. Seriously go look. Come back and tell me your ok w/ that.
Im never buying anything China if i can avoid it.
11:29, city? or sh*tty? As a big lexus fan, I'd say the latter on that Rz
Everyboby wants physical controls but then complain that when they do a review that its a set back and not up to date. Just buy an older car.
Interior still looks like it belongs in the 90's. Only thing putting me off from buying a Lexus over a BMW or Merc.
😂😂. Interior in the es extremely luxurious refined high quality and more. Good as any Mercedes or BMW. Most silly comment ever. Sounds like a old fashioned fifth gear host
Didn't you just do the exact same video like 2 weeks ago, how is this "UNEXPECTED" lol
That's called consistency!
Lexus 4cyl with 275hp can take on BMW 530i, G80 2.5t, Audi A6, Acura tlx & Mercedes e class
Upcoming north American Es with its new Camry hybrid engine and AWD is perfectly fine plus more than enough. If Lexus really want to put more power than the rx500h 366hp is a better option. Considering Toyota/Lexus is now focusing hybrid more than ever.
Exterior is too too gimmicky, creases for the sake of creases. The handheld vacuum cleaner Grille, way over the top, much prefer the understated Volvo Grille, especially the new XC90.
For a sedan, can’t beat my S60.
Bad es design in the interior as well as exterior edits😢😢
The current 2024 es looks better
If Toyota wants to sell more than 11 million vehicles per year, then the price tag needs to decrease. Those manufacturing cost reductions must be passed onto consumers not shareholders’ profits. Sounds like they want to have their cake and eat it too.
This design already out in china showrooms for 2025 !!
Es 2025 is the same as you explained in the vid
Awesome