Rick Cotta

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

An interesting option offered only on the @Lexus ES 350e (EV) is the Executive Pkg (equipment listed in photo), which seats the right-rear passenger in the lap of luxury. This is particularly well matched with the smooth and very quiet power delivery of the car's EV powertrain.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Inside the redesigned @Lexus ES is a customizable 12.3-in instrument-panel display and 14-in touchscreen. Interesting features include standard drive recorder -- which records and saves images from the outside cameras -- and radiant knee heaters in the optional Cold Weather Pkg.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

The redesigned @Lexus ES is 6 inches longer than before and 4 inches taller, the latter providing a higher seat height for improved visibility and easier egress. Thin front roof pillars along with quarter windows in the sloping rear pillars result in unusually good visibility.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Joining the EV version of the redesigned 2026 @Lexus ES mentioned earlier is a 244-hp hybrid: the ES 350h. FWD models start at $51,100 with a 46-mpg rating, AWD at $52,500 with a 44 mpg rating. Hybrids are distinguished by a slot above the bumper in front and badging at the rear.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Rather oddly, the EV version of the new @Lexus ES is the less expensive of the pair. The FWD ES 350e starts at $49,000 with 221 hp and 307 miles of range, while the AWD ES 500e starts at $52,500 with 338 hp and 276 miles of range. Both get a NACS (Tesla style) charge port.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

"Timing is everything."

Although strictly a coincidence, current gas prices make the introduction of the redesigned 2026 @Lexus ES midsize sedan perfectly timed, as it's offered in fuel-sipping hybrid and first-ever EV form. Both versions are available with either FWD or AWD.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

If you're looking for background information on EVs, we invite you to visit https://t.co/LbXuZd0Rii, where the goal (and our tagline) is, "EV info made simple." Note that some vehicles mentioned here are new and have not yet been added to the listings, but they will be shortly.

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Our annual MAMA Spring Rally @roadamerica again afforded us the opportunity to drive more than 70 vehicles, including several low-priced EVs just entering the market -- along with an old favorite and a potent (albeit more expensive) newcomer. @mamaonline

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Although the @Cadillac Optiq-V costs more than other EVs listed here, it deserves mention ... and not just for its 303 mi of range. It surprised me with truly neck-snapping acceleration off the line -- it literally hurt a little -- fully justifying its $69,095 price. @mamaonline

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

... Even kids can get into the test-drive fun with their own (even lower speed -- and much flatter) track!

As we noted up top: There's something for everyone at the Chicago Auto Show! #CAS2026

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

Running through February 16th, the Chicago Auto Show offers something for everyone. Along with the expected new vehicles, there are custom and exotic cars, four test tracks, and a kiddy-car test track. Tickets can only be purchased online at https://t.co/YsZ5wtBzfM. #CAS2026

[Rick Cotta @CarGuyRick1]

... And two more off-road tracks hosted by @Jeep and @Ford . (If you've never done hard-core off-roading, the incredible angles these vehicles can traverse makes for a grip-clenching low-speed thrill ride.)

But wait, there's more! ... #CAS2026