Lexus is targeting early 2027 for plug-in hybrids in the UAE, according to Jacques Brent, Managing Director of Toyota and Lexus UAE at Al-Futtaim. The timing would add a third electrified powertrain option alongside the brand’s conventional hybrids and newly launched battery electric cars.
Speaking to Tbreak at the UAE launch of the RZ 500e and eighth-generation ES on 8 October, we asked Brent when the plug-in hybrids mentioned in his presentation would arrive. His answer was brief: “Early in the new year.” He did not name a model, announce pricing or give a specific launch or delivery date.
What has Lexus confirmed about the UAE arrival?
Brent’s answer gives the UAE plan a clearer timeframe than the “soon” used in the launch presentation. It remains an early-year target rather than a confirmed month, and it does not establish when orders will open or when the first customers will receive their cars.
Lexus already offers plug-in hybrid models in other markets. The development here is the planned addition to the UAE range. Overseas availability does not identify which model or specification Al-Futtaim will introduce locally.
Where would plug-in hybrids fit in the Lexus range?
The announcement follows the launch of the ES 350h hybrid from AED 230,000, the electric RZ 500e at AED 255,000 and the fully equipped ES 500e at AED 275,000. Those prices apply to the cars unveiled on 8 October; Lexus has not supplied a UAE plug-in hybrid price.
Brent described different powertrains as choices for different routines. In the same interview, he recommended hybrids for long-distance commuting and customers facing charging difficulties, while identifying city commuting as a strong use case for fully electric cars.
A plug-in hybrid would give buyers another way to accommodate those routines. Its rechargeable battery supports longer electric-only journeys than a conventional hybrid, while a petrol engine remains available when needed. For someone who can charge regularly, it can power everyday local trips on electric power while preserving flexibility for longer drives.
Will a plug-in hybrid solve the charging question?
A plug-in hybrid can continue driving when its usable electric range is depleted, but access to charging still matters. Owners need to recharge regularly to make full use of the electric driving capability they are buying. It is a different proposition from the ES 350h, which does not require external charging.
The UAE already has plug-in alternatives, including the recently launched GAC GS7 PHEV. Lexus’s eventual model, equipment, battery range and price will determine where its offering sits in that market. Brent’s early-2027 target gives interested buyers a timeframe to watch; the detail needed for a purchasing decision is still to come.
Frequently asked questions
When are Lexus plug-in hybrids coming to the UAE?
Jacques Brent told Tbreak on 8 October 2026 that they were planned for “early in the new year”, pointing to early 2027. He did not provide a precise launch or delivery date.
Which Lexus plug-in hybrid models will launch in the UAE?
No model was named in the interview. Lexus has not supplied a local model list, specifications or prices as part of this announcement.
Is the new Lexus ES 350h a plug-in hybrid?
No. The ES 350h is a conventional petrol-electric hybrid that does not need external charging. The ES 500e and RZ 500e are fully electric. The plug-in hybrid plans are a separate addition to the UAE range.
