Is the all-new 2026 Lexus ES EV the luxury electric sedan we've been waiting for? On this week's episode we share our first impressions of the Lexus' newest electric sedan, discussing its whisper-quiet ride, comfort-first philosophy, real-world range, charging performance, interior technology, and whether it delivers a true luxury experience despite a few frustrating tech quirks. Plus, we answer a viewer question: Can you safely extend oil change intervals on a plug-in hybrid if you mostly drive in EV mode?

 

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SHOW NOTES

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0:00 - Intro

00:16 - First Impressions of the 2026 Lexus ES 500e

03:42 - Ride Comfort

08:13 - Interior Design

10:17 - Controls & Tech Quirks

15:07 - Rear Seat Comfort

18:07 - Real-World EV Range & Charging

20:31 - Practicality

22:22 - EV Platform Explained

23:06 - Comfort vs. Performance

26:01 - One-Pedal Driving & EV Experience

28:26 - Everyday Usability

30:40 - Safety Features

33:32 - Audience Question: Oil Changes for Plug-in Hybrids 

 

 

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Test Results: 2026 Lexus ES

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lexus/es/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

How to Find the Best Home EV Charger

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle-a6908889697/EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

How Long Does It Take to Charge These Popular Electric Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fastest-charging-electric-vehicles-a4112188427/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

10 Best Deals on Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Most & Least Satisfying Hybrids, PHEVs, and Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Popular Electric Vehicles to Avoid and What to Get Instead

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Which Brands Make the Best Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

5 Things to Know About Oil Changes for Your Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/things-to-know-about-oil-changes-for-your-car-a9532249359//?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT