DecodedCarsLexus ES vs Lexus LS
2026 Lexus ES vs 2026 Lexus LS — two midsize cars compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Lexus ES is more fuel-efficient: 46 vs 21 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $3,300 a year less in fuel for the Lexus ES (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Lexus LS is the bigger car, about 4 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Lexus LS has had fewer recall campaigns (13 vs 17).
The two cars
The 2026 Lexus ES is a midsize car offered with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine, including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 202 inches long and 76 inches wide on a 116-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,641 lb (350e 4dr Sedan).
The 2026 Lexus LS is a midsize car offered with a 3.4L 6-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 206 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,938 lb (500 4dr Sedan).
Buying used? The 2022 ES and the 2017 LS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2019 ES and the 2018 LS.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Lexus ES if…
- You want lower fuel bills (46 vs 21 MPG)
- You want an EV with more range (307 miles)
- You want something easier to park (4 in shorter)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Lexus LS if…
- You want more room (4 in longer)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Lexus ES
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 46 MPG combined — 47% better than the average 2026 midsize car (31.2 MPG).
- Long EV rangeUp to 307 miles on a charge (EPA).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and electric as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
- Modest powerUp to 186 hp, versus about 362 hp for similar 2026 models.
2026 Lexus LS
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 21 MPG combined, 33% below the 2026 midsize car average of 31.2 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Lexus ES specs →Full 2026 Lexus LS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →