Lexus has expanded its India lineup with the launch of the new ES 350h, introducing an updated hybrid sedan that joins the all-electric ES 500e in the brand's portfolio. The model is priced between Rs 66.10 lakh and Rs 71.80 lakh (ex-showroom), with bookings now open across the country.
Positioned below the ES 500e, which carries a price tag of Rs 89.99 lakh, the new hybrid offers a more affordable entry into Lexus's premium sedan range. Even the top-spec ES 350h undercuts the electric variant by Rs 18.19 lakh. Compared with the outgoing ES 350h, however, the latest generation commands a premium of Rs 2.10 lakh.
The pricing places the sedan squarely in the luxury executive segment, where it will continue to rival the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.
Built on the TNGA GA-K platform, the eighth-generation ES adopts Lexus's "Provocative Simplicity" design philosophy. Up front, the traditional spindle grille has been replaced by a sealed-off fascia, complemented by twin L-signature daytime running lamps and vertically positioned blacked-out elements that integrate the headlamps.
The profile features a rising beltline along with a distinctive Z-shaped trim element stretching across the doors. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar links the twin L-signature tail-lamps, while the sloping roofline gives the sedan a sleeker, coupe-inspired appearance compared with its predecessor.
Both the hybrid and all-electric versions share the same exterior styling. The latest ES has also grown in size, measuring 170mm longer, 55mm wider and 130mm taller than before, while its wheelbase has been extended by 80mm.
Inside, the cabin follows what Lexus describes as the "Clean Tech x Elegance" theme. The minimalist dashboard is centred around a 14-inch touchscreen, with most physical buttons eliminated in favour of touch-sensitive controls that illuminate as a hand approaches.
The equipment list includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, LED-lit speaker grilles, illuminated 3D-printed door pads, a Mark Levinson audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless charging pads, powered front seats with heating and ventilation, three-zone climate control, a head-up display, a digital IRVM, ambient lighting, rear sunshades and a power-operated boot lid.
Safety features include 10 airbags, a surround-view camera system, radar-guided adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive high-beam assist, driver drowsiness monitoring, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist and parking sensors at both ends.
Powering the ES 350h is a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder strong-hybrid petrol engine paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The petrol engine develops 186 hp and 235 Nm, while the electric motor produces 201 hp and 270 Nm independently.
The hybrid system delivers a combined output of 244 hp. Lexus says the sedan can sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.7 seconds, offering a balance of smooth performance and responsiveness for buyers in the luxury saloon segment.
