The Lexus It is not always mentioned in the same sentence as the BMW 5 series. However, the two are clear competitors. Both offer a smooth journey and a high -quality interior with a focus on comfort. Although they are separated from a pricing gap – around 10,000 US dollars in the USA – their proportions and the intended purpose are quite similar. Apart from the fact that Lexus did not develop powerful it to fight with the BMW M5 models. For the 2026 model year, Lexus refreshes her medium -sized limousine and it is a better film than ever for BMWs the longest running type shield.
Outer design
Really, the biggest changes to the 2026 Lexus It is exactly where you can see them: the outer one. A wild, practically completely cute design is a sharp contrast to the gaping spindle grill of the outgoing model. This is of course a practical decision, since all models of the new ones are electrified in any way. As usual in contemporary automobile design, we see futuristic and extremely narrow headlight designs and a light bar in the back that extends over the entire trunk. The page profile, at least on the ES 500E, has a sharp, black accent line. This accent summarizes the entire design of the car: sharp and modern. Both the Lexus ES and the BMW 5 series are standard with 19-inch wheels on the US market.
In contrast, the BMW 5 series looks absolutely reserved. Even with the available M sports package, the 5 Series has a completely different mood than the new Lexus. We really would not be able to identify the new ES as a Lexus product, let alone identify without saying. The 5 Series is only a little smaller than it. It is three inches shorter than that, and it is a little wider and only sits a little higher. For the good or for the bad, it definitely has a much more futuristic look. The time will say that better, but our money is in the BMW 5 Series.
Interior design
The Lexus It was last received internal tests in 2018, so that the next generation changes quite a lot. Remarkably, the screen is more upright and most of the buttons migrate on it. Overall, the cabin is more minimalist than before and the steering wheel is a bit more sporty. Not a word about whether wood cladding returns to the steering wheel or not, a bit of a staple food from Lexus products. A tiny gear lever and a long center console contribute to a spacious cabin. Of course, Lexus relies on a well -known Mark Levinson sound system. In comparison, the BMW cabin looks a bit busy, although they are certainly not overcrowded. We believe that the driver’s display is a little more smoothly integrated into the Lexus. Otherwise, both cabins look good from an ergonomic point of view.
Performance
No performance figures were published for the new Lexus. However, we are ready to bet that Lexus Es 500e does not really represent the range-toping-es-es for a serious threat to the comparable BMW M550E XDrive. The Lexus It only comes in hybrids or fully electrified shapes. The ES 350H hybrid is available in front or all-wheel drive. The 350e comes to the FWD on the electrical side, while the 500e is only AWD. The fuel markets it is strictly based on a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with an ECVT. Car and driver says the 530i weighs £ 4041 (1832 kg); The FWD ES 350H weighs 4012 pounds (1819 kg). The 5 is certainly faster. In particular, the new Lexus will rely on a rear rear suspension with several leftists for the first time. Therefore, the Twisties should feel a bit more competent compared to the last generation.
technology
Lexus divides the new ES-Infotainment screens between a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14.0-inch center touchscreen. Size is not everything, but the BMW 5 series receives a 12.3-inch driver display and a central display of 14.9 inches. In particular, Lexus physically separates the two screens, which gives it a little “integrated” stake for our eyes, such as iDrive 7. Of course, this species goes out of the window when you notice how sluggish the middle screen is implemented.
The two offer familiar amenities. Both Grant Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated navigation and voice commands. We are not sure what Lexus has planned for the app integration, but we know that the new it has significantly improved the standard security functions. It will be the first model that offers Lexus security system+ 4.0 that builds on the existing suite and contains functions such as adaptive speed control, forward collision warning, warning for lane department and much more. Most of them naturally also come with the BMW 5 series.
Overall, the new Lexus looks like a solid alternative in the BMW 5 series. It becomes even more competitive when you consider that the pricing of the BMW 5 series will probably be significantly undermined. In addition, the Lexus typically offers it a superior space compared to the 5 Series. We believe that performance -oriented buyers are difficult after a test drive to choose. So there are also drivers who are not looking for a hybrid or EV. But what do you think?
