Bengaluru: Lexus India has launched the all-new ES 350h, bringing the self-charging hybrid version of its eighth-generation executive sedan to the Indian market. Manufactured in India, the new ES combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a newly developed hybrid system and lithium-ion battery, delivering a claimed fuel efficiency of 25.22 km/l.
Available in Exquisite and Luxury variants, the ES 350h becomes an important part of Lexus’ next-generation electrified vehicle strategy, which includes both Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) powertrains.
The new-generation model is larger than its predecessor, receives a substantially redesigned exterior and cabin, and introduces technologies including a 14-inch touchscreen, the latest Lexus Safety System+ and what Lexus describes as the world’s first Responsive Hidden Switches.
The company has not announced pricing in the information released alongside the launch.
Made in India, With Electrification at the Centre
The ES has been one of Lexus’ core global models since it debuted alongside the flagship LS in 1989. It has since been sold across more than 80 countries and regions, building its reputation largely around ride comfort, cabin space and quietness rather than an overwhelming urge to frighten the neighbours.
In India, the ES has also played an important role in establishing the Lexus brand. The latest ES 350h continues to be manufactured locally and shares its advanced platform and broader design philosophy with the ES 500e.
Lexus says the new model reflects its “multi-pathway” approach to carbon neutrality, under which hybrid and fully electric vehicles are developed alongside each other rather than treating electrification as a single-route transition.
Speaking on the launch, Hikaru Ikeuchi, President of Lexus India, said:
“Today marks a significant milestone for Lexus in India as we launch the All-New ES 350h. Building on the immense success of its predecessors, this launch reflects our long-term commitment and continued efforts to deliver vehicles of world-class quality tailored to the needs of our guests in India.
Manufactured in India, the All-New ES 350h embodies our multi-pathway approach to sustainable mobility, seamlessly blending advanced technology, exceptional ride quality, and luxury. Renowned for its Takumi craftsmanship and inspired by the spirit of Omotenashi hospitality, it offers an elevated experience defined by comfort, innovation, and meticulous attention to detail. As the lifestyles and landscape continues to evolve, we remain committed to delivering vehicles that inspire confidence, enrich lifestyles, and contribute to a more sustainable future. We are confident that the All-New ES 350h will set new benchmarks in its segment, further strengthen the Lexus brand in India, and exceed the expectations of our guests.”
New 2.5-Litre Hybrid System
At the heart of the ES 350h is a newly developed hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder petrol engine, a new eAxle and a lithium-ion battery.
The Power Control Unit, or PCU, has been integrated into the transaxle as part of the new eAxle configuration. According to Lexus, this arrangement helps improve packaging while supporting a balance of performance, fuel economy and refinement.
A new lithium-ion battery cell has also been developed to provide higher output while reducing the size and weight of the battery system.
Lexus claims the ES 350h delivers fuel efficiency of 25.22 km/l, an important figure for a large luxury sedan and one likely to attract attention from buyers seeking lower fuel consumption without switching entirely to battery-electric propulsion.
The company says the hybrid system has also been calibrated to provide stronger acceleration response and improved controllability while retaining the quiet character traditionally associated with the ES.
Bigger ES Gets New ‘Provocative Simplicity’ Design
The eighth-generation ES introduces a new design direction based on Lexus’ “Provocative Simplicity” philosophy and what the company calls the Clean Tech x Elegance concept.
It is dimensionally larger than the outgoing model, with a longer wheelbase, increased width and greater overall height.
Lexus says the revised proportions improve both road presence and passenger space while also making entry and exit easier. The emphasis remains on comfort, but with a more contemporary visual identity than the traditionally conservative ES formula.
Up front, the sedan receives new Twin L Signature Lamps, combining inward-facing daytime running lights with outward-facing turn indicators.
The rear gets a new Rear L Signature Lamp treatment, with the lighting functions positioned towards the outer edges to visually emphasise the vehicle’s width.
Electronic door latch releases with Safe Exit Assist are also offered, adding a technology-driven layer to a feature that once required little more than a handle and some common sense.
Exterior colour choices include White Nova, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Chrome and Graphite Black, along with the newly available SOU and Sonic Copper finishes.
Cleaner Cabin With 14-Inch Touchscreen
Inside, Lexus has followed a cleaner and more minimalist design approach focused on openness and visibility.
The cabin continues to use the brand’s Tazuna cockpit concept, positioning frequently used controls and vehicle information within easy reach and sight of the driver.
A 14-inch high-definition touchscreen runs the latest Lexus Interface multimedia system, while a fully digital instrument cluster displays essential driving information.
The multimedia system has been designed to provide faster responses and easier access to commonly used functions, according to Lexus.
The company has developed the interior around the theme of “Pleasant Time for All Seats”, reflecting the ES’s longstanding emphasis on rear-seat as well as front-seat comfort.
Responsive Hidden Switches Make Their Debut
One of the more unusual pieces of technology inside the new ES is Lexus’ Responsive Hidden Switches.
Described by the company as a world-first, the system integrates physical switch functionality into the cabin surfaces while keeping the controls visually concealed when they are not required.
The idea is to preserve physical interaction — something increasingly rare in touchscreen-heavy modern cabins — without disturbing the minimalist appearance of the dashboard.
It is an interesting compromise between two competing automotive trends: fewer visible buttons and drivers still wanting buttons.
Latest Lexus Safety System+
The ES 350h is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System+, bringing together a range of active and passive safety technologies.
The package includes an enhanced Pre-Collision System, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor, Automatic High Beam and an Emergency Brake Signal.
The ES also receives eight SRS airbags, ISOFIX mounts and Top Tether child-seat anchors.
A Driver Monitor system is offered specifically on the Luxury variant.
Lexus says the latest assistance systems have been designed to deliver more natural interventions while supporting rather than distracting the driver.
Connected Features Include Remote Climate and Vehicle Tracking
The ES 350h also receives an expanded set of connected-car functions through the Lexus Connected application.
Owners can remotely check fuel levels and driving range, start the engine, lock or unlock the doors, close the windows and operate the slide roof.
Remote climate-control functions allow users to schedule or activate the air-conditioning as well as seat heating and ventilation before entering the vehicle.
Smartphone and smartwatch integration is supported, while Live Car Tracking allows owners to monitor the vehicle’s location.
An integrated Emergency Call feature is also included.
Eight-Year Warranty and Assured Buyback Programme
Lexus India is offering a five-year Roadside Assistance package with the ES 350h, covering services including towing, taxi assistance and repatriation.
The company is also offering an eight-year/200,000 km vehicle and hybrid battery warranty, subject to its applicable terms and conditions.
An Assured Buy Back Programme is available with low-EMI options and a guaranteed future residual value of up to 65 per cent, according to Lexus.
The Lexus Luxury Care maintenance programme is available in Comfort, Relax and Premiere packages, ranging from three years/40,000 km to eight years/160,000 km.
Bookings for the new ES 350h are open through Lexus Guest Experience Centres across India.
With its combination of local production, a claimed 25.22 km/l hybrid efficiency and an increasingly technology-heavy cabin, the new ES 350h shows how Lexus intends to approach India’s evolving luxury-car market. Rather than forcing buyers to make an immediate leap from petrol to full electric power, the company is keeping the hybrid route firmly open — and, for the ES at least, making it considerably more sophisticated along the way.
Pricing-
| Sl No | Variant | Rs Ex-showroom |
| 1 | Exquisite | 66,10,000 |
| 2 | Luxury | 71,80,000 |
ES 350h Main Specifications
| Length | 5,145 mm |
| Width | 1,920 mm |
| Height | 1,575 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,950 mm |
| Tire Size | 235/55R19 |
| Engine capacity | 2487 cc |
| No of Cylinders | 4 |
| Max Engine Output | 139kW @ 6000rpm |
| Max Torque | 237Nm @ 3600-5000rpm |
| Electric Motor Generator | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Max Motor Output | 119.1 kW 7500 rpm |
| Fuel efficiency | 25.22 km/l |
