Leaked 2026 Lexus ES manual reveals design tweaks and

It looks like Lexus is gearing up for another subtle facelift of the seventh-generation ES midsize sedan

Now in its seventh generation since being launched in mid-2018, the Lexus ES is starting to feel a little dated. While a full replacement doesn’t appear to be imminent, Toyota is planning an update. We’ve spotted some pages on Chinese social media that look like a brochure for the facelifted model, giving us an idea of ​​what to expect from the 2026 model update.

Based on previous teasers and patent filings, many expected the 2026 Lexus ES to follow in the footsteps of its Toyota sister model, the Camry, with a massive redesign, including ditching the spindle grille and launching an all-electric version. However, Lexus seems to have chosen a more conservative approach to the facelift, focusing mainly on technical upgrades inside the car.

That said, that doesn’t mean the rumors are wrong – Lexus is likely preparing separate updates for the ICE models pictured, while the electric models are gearing up for a more significant overhaul, as suggested in these patent filings That way.

Minor cosmetic modifications

At first glance, the Lexus sedan shown in the leaked brochure could easily be mistaken for the current ES. But a closer look reveals a few tweaks, starting with a pair of redesigned headlights that feature Z-shaped LED lighting signatures that now sit at the top and wrap around the sides, unlike the current model’s bottom position. Additionally, while the spindle grille retains its iconic shape, the interior graphics have been completely revised, taking design cues from the updated RX’s more evolved styling.

Elsewhere, the bodywork remains familiar. On the back, aside from a new illuminated logo, it’s mostly unchanged. It’s unclear whether the trim connecting the taillights will evolve into a full-width LED light strip. We also expect Lexus to update the model’s badging to be in line with the rest of the range.

Bigger screen, but fewer physical buttons

Inside, the changes are more obvious. The most significant update is the larger infotainment touchscreen on the dashboard, which looks nearly identical to the 14-inch display found in the newer NX and RX SUVs. The new screen forces some changes to the center console, including a redesign of the climate vents and, unfortunately, the elimination of physical buttons for climate control and multimedia functions. It’s unclear whether Lexus will keep the analog clock that currently sits next to the 12.3-inch screen in current models.

Another upgrade appears to be a digital instrument cluster, likely a direct upgrade from the larger LS sedan or LM minivan. Also worth noting is the presence of a gearbox, suggesting this is an ICE or hybrid version of the ES and not one of the rumored EV variants.

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While these drawings from the manual likely represent the international-spec ES, we expect the North American model to get a similar treatment when the 2026 update rolls out, likely next year.

The current seventh-generation Lexus ES debuted in 2018 and received subtle updates for 2021. With another facelift due in 2025, the midsize sedan will likely stick around for a few more years before Lexus decides to give it a more complete overhaul. Keep in mind that the ES shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Camry, both of which use the TNGA-K platform.

How about the EV version?

It’s unclear when Lexus will launch an all-electric version of the ES. The EV version may be pushed back further, or it may be launched simultaneously under a different name. Either way, when it arrives, it’ll likely have the more dramatic redesign we’ve come to expect and could be marketed as an all-new generation.

Regardless of the timeline, the ES remains an important model for Lexus. While many sedans struggle in today’s SUV-dominated market, the ES holds its own. In fact, it’s not only Lexus’ best-selling passenger car, but the brand’s third-best-selling model overall, with sales up nearly 5 percent this year through September, totaling 30,284 units.