u/FabulousShelter6

Spoke with a nearby dealer. It seems whole city is only getting handful of ES electric vehicles and even less hybrids for now. But this slow pace seems may continue for a few weeks. The sales guy said he anticipates getting more ESe and ESh in stock closer to November. That is also when this guy anticipates promotions would run (at least for electric version).

Is this typical of Lexus? Or maybe for a new model generally? I would think a 2026 model should be available to purchase in January and by January 2027, I should be able to get the next ES sedan. Is this not how things work or is it unique because 2026 ES models are delayed due to change to Japan manufacturing and introduction of a new body/internals.

Trying to figure out if I should lease an ES in Q3/4 or wait until Q1 for 2027 ES, unless those won’t be in market until mid 2027. Any ideas/suggestions please?

https://preview.redd.it/80gwowxb9y2h1.jpg?width=2626&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b32018d100200081c148897a6e7bf1fe2e2350c5

https://preview.redd.it/f6wywwxb9y2h1.jpg?width=2626&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f5066d28b368d2836bddec02067bb8336557b3f6

Test drove the 2026 ES 500. Dealer didn't have any 350s (and wont have any for 2-3 weeks).

From the outside, it looked fine. I didn't love the two black pieces on the sides under headlights. The black line that goes on the side didn't seem too terrible in person, even though it was on this white. Back looked good to me.

The inside felt good. It felt like an ES (coming from 2023 ES). It felt simplistic and i was worried the large tablet would make it feel too much like a Tesla but it didn't. Felt nice. The look felt clean and good materials. The steering wheel looked too simplistic and i don't love the buttons on both sides. But frankly, i didn't hate it. Not my favorite.

The drive felt great! Granted, this is the 500 but the ride was smooth, quiet, and felt great. Drove it in the rain and without. Driving on the black freeway, it seemed very quiet. The grey local roads were not as quiet but felt quieter than my current ES. It was a quick drive so hard to do evaluate well.

I wanted to see it and drive it to see if I want to move to a 2026 ES 350. And I am sold. Tired of paying so much for gas money. And i can charge at home. Commute is 2-4 hours per day so should be ok. I'll probably stick with a black or Iridium. Didn't love the rest of the colors so much (saw colors on other Lexus cars since they only had one white demo ES unit). Wish there were more color choices. Will wait for incentives on renewing my lease.

is there still an incentive by the federal or Texas government to purchase an electric vehicle? If so? How much is it? considering purchasing a 2026 Lexus ES elective 350. Thanks!

Haven't seen any reviews (by owners or YouTubers)? I believe the car is now available to sell and dealers have it out to test drive. shouldn’t we see more reviews out there?

not crazy about the way 2026 looks but love my current ES. As long as the car is quiet, smooth, and peaceful to drive, I think I can get over the elements that aren’t perfect. but would love to hear from owners or others who have spent more time with it.