The 2026 Lexus ES and the Toyota Crown need no introductions in the luxury sedan segment. These highly popular models are renowned for their refined cabins, tech, and multiple powertrain choices. Our Lexus Stevens Creek experts explore the key differences between these premium sedans with this 2026 Lexus ES vs. Toyota Crown comparison. Discover the right model to purchase for your San Jose and Santa Clara drives.
What Makes the 2026 Lexus ES vs Toyota Crown Comparison Unique
Both models come from the same parent company. While the Lexus ES is under Toyota’s luxury division, the Crown is part of the automaker’s mainline brand. The Crown retains the Toyota badge while the Lexus ES carries the distinctive Lexus badge. While the Lexus ES has remained a staple in the U.S. market for decades, the Toyota Crown returned recently to the U.S. market after a long hiatus.
2026 Lexus ES Overview: Traditional Luxury Refined
Elegance meets performance as the all-new, electrified Lexus ES comes to life in 2026. The reimagined premium sedan features a bold, expressive look, masterfully crafted proportions, and a flowing profile that make heads turn wherever you go. This sedan features the new Lexus Safety System 4.0+, with enhanced detection for safer rides.
Trim Levels and Starting Prices
The 2026 Lexus ES debuts with three trim levels. Electric enthusiasts can choose between the 350e and the 500e models. The hybrid 350h trim level is available for those who want to enjoy the best of gas and electric transportation. Starting prices for the all-new Lexus ES aren’t out yet, but estimates place the base model’s MSRP at $45,000.
Key Features and Target Buyer
The 2026 Lexus targets loyal Lexus buyers who prioritize electric mobility, reliability, and ride comfort. Here’s a breakdown of the Lexus ES’s key features:
- All-electric and hybrid powertrains for optimized power and performance.
- Multiple color palette options for improved aesthetics.
- Top-tier tech provides an enriched in-car convenience and entertainment.
- An extended wheelbase and body length create more interior space.
- The Lexus Safety System 4.0+ for safe, confident driving.
2026 Toyota Crown Overview
The 2026 Toyota Crown has a sophisticated design with bold exterior styling for an awe-inspiring road presence. It blends modern technology and high-end performance for an exhilarating driving experience. The sedan’s higher ride height and all-weather capability make it an excellent choice for buyers in San Jose and Santa Clara.
Trim Levels and Starting Prices
The 2026 Toyota Crown offers four trim levels, including the XLE, Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum. Each trim level has unique features designed for your trips in and around Stevens Creek. The Toyota Crown base model’s starting MSRP is $41,440.
Key Features and Target Buyer
The 2026 Toyota Crown targets Stevens Creek drivers seeking a performance-oriented sedan that blends comfort and practicality without overlooking luxury. Here are some of these sedans’ key features:
- Hybrid powertrains with e-AWD for robust vehicle performance.
- Advanced audio multimedia for immersive in-car entertainment.
- Upgraded connectivity to help you stay connected and updated.
- The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite for safer driving.
Interior Quality and Comfort Face-Off
Both the 2026 Lexus ES and the Toyota Crown are renowned for their upscale, spacious interiors with leather upholstery for optimal comfort. That said, several key factors set the Lexus ES apart from its closest competitor.
Materials and Build Quality
The 2026 Lexus ES’s cabin features premium materials with 3D-printed Bamboo details, ambient lighting, and dynamic themes, creating a luxurious look. Slimmer seats and lower window edges create a sense of openness in the cabin. With an extended body length and wheelbase, the Lexus ES outshines its competitors in interior spacing. By comparison, the Toyota Crown features soft-touch materials and body-colored accents. The sedan retains the cabin dimensions of its predecessor.
Front Seat Comfort and Adjustability
All Crown models feature eight-way adjustable power-adjustable front seats for maximum comfort. Heated and ventilated front seats come standard on all models. With the Lexus ES’s Executive package, you get 14-way power-adjustable front seats. It also features heating and ventilation profiles for optimal comfort.
Rear Seat Space and Passenger Experience
In the ES Executive package, rear passengers can enjoy reclining, massaging seats. It also has heating and ventilation profiles for the backbenchers. While the Toyota Crown offers rear heated seats, it does not come with reclining or massaging options.
Cargo Space and Practicality
The 2026 Toyota Crown has a cargo capacity of 15.6 cubic feet with split-folding rear seats for longer items. While there’s no information yet on the 2026 Lexus cargo capacity, projections suggest it will have an expansive trunk, just like the 2025 Lexus ES. The luxury sedan offers versatile storage solutions, including a ski pass-through and passenger side ottomans.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
Top-tier tech is abundant in the 2026 Lexus ES. The driver-focused cockpit features a 14.0-inch multimedia touch screen for swift and convenient access. By comparison, the Crown has a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Toyota’s upgraded software. Both vehicles support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, as well as wireless charging and onboard Wi-Fi. An available Mark Levinson audio system in the ES delivers an immersive experience during your road trips to Stevens Creek.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2026 offers three engine choices to meet your power and performance needs. For the 350h model, a 2.5-liter hybrid system with an integrated eAxle delivers up to 243 horsepower. The all-electric BEV 350e and 500e models offer 300 and 250 miles of range when equipped with 19-inch wheels. Except for the Platinum trim, which has the 2.4-liter Hybrid Max setup, all other Toyota Crowns feature a 2.5-liter hybrid system. The Platinum model delivers 340 horsepower, while other trims offer up to 236 horsepower.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between the Lexus ES vs. Toyota Crown depends on your unique automotive needs and driving style. However, both vehicles are solid options and embody the essence of driving a luxury sedan. If you want a fast and powerful sedan that prioritizes comfort and performance, the 2026 Lexus ES is a top choice. It has an elegant design and top-tier tech for optimal comfort and convenience during your San Jose drives. Ready to discover the 2026 Lexus ES? Visit Lexus Stevens Creek to learn more and explore our inventory.
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