Lexus ES has not always been mentioned in the same sentence as the BMW 5 series. However, the two are strong competitors. Both provide flexible ride and internal quality with a concentration on comfort. Although the price gap – about $ 10,000 in the United States – its dimensions and the intended purpose is completely similar. Except, of course, the fact that Lexus did not develop high performance in the battle with the behavior of BMW M5 models. Over the course of 2026, Lexus updates its medium sedan, which is better than ever for the longest panel in BMW.
Exterior
Really, the biggest changes in 2026 Lexus ES are right where you can see them: outside. The wild design is completely less impressive with a sharp contradiction with the spindle network the gap in the form form. Of course, this is a somewhat practical decision, as all new ES models are electrified in some way. As is common in contemporary cars design, we see the designs of a very future and very narrow front lamp and a lamp in the back that extends across the overall trunk. The side file, at least on the ES 500E, features a sharp black tone line. This accent summarizes the design of the entire car: sharp and modern. Both the Lexus ES and BMW 5 series are standard with 19 -inch wheels in the American market.
On the contrary, the BMW 5 series looks completely restricted. Even with the available M Sport package, the 5 series has a completely different atmosphere from the new Lexus ES. We will not really be able to select the new ES as a Lexus product, much lower than ES, without telling. Series 5 is also a little smaller than ES. It is the shortest three -inch of ES, the ES is slightly wider and sits a little higher. For better or worse, ES definitely has a much more future look. Time will specify anyone better, but our money is in the BMW 5 series.
Interior design
Lexus Es last got an internal update in 2018, so the next generation changes slightly. It is worth noting that the screen is more straightforward, and most of the buttons migrate to it. In general, the cabin is more minimal than before, and the steering wheel is slightly sports. There is no word about whether the wooden pieces will return to the wheel or not, they are part of the Lexus products. The small gear arm and the long central control unit contributes to a wide -looking compartment. Of course, Lexus depends on the fashionable Mark Levinson sound system. Relatively, the BMW cabin looks a little busy, although it is definitely not disturbing. We believe that the side screen of the driver is more smoothly integrated into Lexus. Otherwise, both cabins look well from a comfortable point of view.
performance
No new Lexus ES Energy characters have been released. However, we are ready to bet until Lexus ES 500E range will not really pose any serious threat to BMW M550E XDrive. Lexus ES does not come, but it only comes in a hybrid or completely exposed. ES 350h hybrid is available in the front driving or for all wheels. On the electric side, 350e comes in FWD, while 500E is only AWD. ES, which is strictly based on a 2.5 -liter combustion capacity covered with four cylinders associated with ECVT. Car and driver 530i weighs 4041 pounds (1832 kg); FWD ES 350h 4012 pounds (1819 kg) weighs, according to Lexus. Safe to say, 5err faster. Nevertheless, in particular, the new Lexus ES will rely on a multi -link rear suspension for the first time. Therefore, you should feel a little more through Twisties compared to the last generation.
technology
Lexus divides the new information and entertainment screens between the 12.3 -inch driver screen and a 14.0 -inch central touch screen. The size is not all, but the BMW 5 series gets a 12.3 -inch driver and a 14.9 -inch central screen. It is worth noting that Lexus physically separates the two screens, which gives ES a little from a more “integrated” look on our eyes, such as IDrive 7. Of course, this type of window comes out when you notice the extent of the central screen’s fool.
The two offer familiar amenities. Both CarPlay Wireless Apple, Android Auto grants, integrated navigation, and vocal orders. We are not sure of what Lexus planned as much as the application is integrated, but we know that the new ES has greatly improved standard safety features. This will be the first model that provides Lexus Aman Aman+ 4.0 system, which will depend on the current wing and include features such as adaptive seizure control, front collision warning, warning of the corridors, and more. Most, of course, the BMW 5 series also comes.
In general, the new Lexus ES looks a powerful BMW 5 alternative. It becomes more competitive when you think that ES will undermine BMW 5 pricing, somewhat greatly. Moreover, Lexus ES usually provides a superior space compared to the 5 series. We believe that shoppers who focus on performance will have difficulty choosing ES after driving test. Therefore, also, drivers who are not looking for a hybrid or EV will search. But what do you think?