Overview & Reviews

Few premium automotive brands have as varied a lineup as Lexus does. Instead of offering one entry-level luxury sedan, Lexus offers two. For buyers who put the highest priority on comfort and luxury, there is the midsize, front-wheel-drive Lexus ES 350 sedan, while those desiring a harder-edged sport sedan can go with the company's compact, rear-drive IS series.

Today's Lexus ES 350 is the latest version of the company's long-running ES series. Like its predecessors, it's roomy, quiet, comfortable and assembled with care. Lexus offers plenty of standard and optional upscale amenities for the ES 350, but adding a few of the option packages can quickly drive up the price. However, for consumers seeking the utmost in refinement and relaxation in their next entry-level luxury car, the Lexus ES 350 is certain to have just as much appeal as every ES sedan before it.

Current Lexus ES 350
Debuting as a 2013 model, the current-generation Lexus ES 350 maintains its familiar and successful formula. That means it's a well-crafted, well-equipped luxury sedan that puts more emphasis on quiet, comfortable motoring than it does on athletic handling. Styling is evolutionary and handsome, while the cabin boasts a modern and interesting aesthetic.

For power the ES 350 relies on a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. As before, the transmission is a six-speed automatic transmission and all ES 350s have front-wheel drive.

Standard feature highlights include 17-inch wheels, xenon headlamps, a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, premium vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an eight-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface. Options include a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, real wood trim, a rearview camera, a navigation system (includes the Lexus Enform suite of Internet-based apps), a Siri-based control system for iPhone users, a Mark Levinson audio system, heated and ventilated seats and a power rear sunshade. If certain options are ordered, the ES 350 also features Lexus' mouselike Remote Touch multifunction controller.

In reviews, we have found that the latest ES 350 delivers a refined driving experience that's bolstered by the smooth and energetic V6 engine. Handling is more buttoned-down than before, which we appreciate. Still, this is no sport sedan. The ES continues to provide a very quiet drive that's ideal for consumers ranging from harried commuters to families who enjoy frequent road trips. All told, Lexus has updated and thus increased the appeal of its popular entry-level luxury sedan without abandoning its core character that has endeared it to its massive, often repeat-business customer base.

Used Lexus ES 350 Models
Current-generation ES 350s debuted in 2013. Minor additions for the 2014 models include xenon headlights and the Siri Eyes Free iPhone control system. The base premium vinyl seats with ventilation and bamboo interior trim were also made available.

Produced from 2007 through 2012, the previous-generation Lexus ES 350 didn't change much, making low-mileage, well-kept examples top used car choices. This generation shared its basic underpinnings and mechanicals with the 2007-'11 Toyota Camry. Of course, the ES 350 had different exterior and interior styling as well as more luxury features. Power was provided by a 3.5-liter V6 that generated 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque and put its power to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Standard equipment included a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, power front seats, leather upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control and lovely wood trim. Popular options included a panoramic sunroof, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, a navigation system, adaptive xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control and heated and ventilated front seats.

In our reviews, our editors found this entry-level luxury sedan pleasant to drive. The V6 engine was smooth, and if you're not particularly interested in sporty dynamics, the ES 350's isolated and soft ride will be to your liking. Inside, materials quality and the overall level of opulence are impressive for this segment. For buyers seeking an affordable used luxury sedan, the ES 350 makes a great choice.

The previous generation of the ES, which ran from 2004-'06, was known as the ES 330, while 2002 and '03 models were sold under the ES 300 name. Although they weren't as powerful as the ES 350, the 300 and 330 are fine choices for a used entry-level luxury sedan, thanks to their capable performance, serene cruising demeanor and high-quality cabin treatments. For any ES, reliability is typically well above average.

User Reviews:

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  luxury and comfort - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By exb - May 10 - 3:26 am

  I got this car May 13th, to replace my 2 door coupe Acura 3.2cls,which was very sporty and had a lot of power. I was now looking for a 4 door, that was quiet and comfortable.. Well I found it. I love the plush interior and all its bells and whistles. It has the get up and go to get on the freeways.

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  Rolling Valium - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By RI Car Guy - May 8 - 5:50 pm

  The Lexus ES350 pampers the driver and passengers in quiet isolation. The ride quality is best in class and fuel economy is excellent for a car this size. I averaged 27.5 mpg over 37K miles and typically get 31 mpg on highway (+75mph). I do a lot of highway driving and the New England winters are tough on any car, but the paint on the Lexus has more chips than my 6 year old Honda. Recommend getting dealer applied plastic film on hood to protect the new eco-friendly paint.

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  Review after first week - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By waspenx - April 27 - 9:11 am

  Overall experience is great. It feels like a driving a spaceship! (Considering that I have never driven a luxury car before). One thing I am not crazy about is the door slamming. Those doors dont close easily. Both I and my passengers find ourselves miss the first try a few times. The acceleration is not the best which I have expected but somehow still feel the need to say it here. The look of the car (in and out) is awesome. I am a fan of the spindle grille (that is all that matters). Somehow the feeling of sharp image but comfortable ride works out for me. The white color (eminent pearl white) I chose does bring some challenge in the days after a snow. The fact that this is a nice and new car make the dirty mud on the car less bearable.

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  Excellent Value for the Money - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Alex - April 19 - 8:33 am

  I work for a Auto Dealership so I know a lot about cars, I have a Infinity 2014 Q50 which is a great car but was limited on space in the rear seat and trunk, but very fast. I also own a 2001 Lexus RX 300 with 176000 miles on it still going strong, which to this day rides smoother than my Infinity, so I decided to get the 2017 ES 350, I previous had a 97 ES 300, WOW what a difference in ride compared to my Q50, nice and quiet and smooth running, very comfortable and I like all the high tech stuff, minds is fully loaded and so since I work for the auto industry I got a very good lease on this one. I drive BMWs and Mercedes, Acura, and Audi all the time and nothing compares to the value and comfort of my ES, Its one of the best cars Ive ever had and Ive had just about every car made, American and foreign, and hands down this is the one, so if you looking for comfort and value and a lot for your money, check out the new ES, oh by the way I got the Atomic Silver with the two tone interior, Tinted windows, beautiful, beautiful car!!!!

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  Traded in S500 Mercedes - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Marvin Smith - April 1 - 3:00 am

  Purchased in August 2006. Drove 3500 miles in five weeks. Cant believe what a great car in a great package. Love it, wish I had purchased Lexus before the last three Mercedes. All had too much trouble and fun was not part of driving mercedes due to always in shop. Enjoying.

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  Great car - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Don carducci - March 20 - 12:10 pm

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  Great car - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By Mark l - March 20 - 6:03 am

  Easy to keep clean. Gets better gas mileage than I thought it would. Averages 28 mpg. Enjoying it ever time I get in it.

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  New Fan - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By New Lexus Fan - March 19 - 5:23 pm

  I love this vehicle. It is just a dream to drive and hasnt given me any reason to regret my purchase yet. The vehicle is very responsive, floats like a cloud down the highway, has tons of power and is loaded w/ thoughtful and useful options. The handling is GREAT despite some review that said it is soft in the corners: Not sure what you have to do to get it to feel soft but highway on/off ramps are a snap at 50 mph, thats good enough for me. Other reviewers complained about the Bluetooth but it seems perfect to me. The upholstery, wood trim and leather are all smooth as butter, the engine is meaty and powerful and the cabin is quiet enough to put your passengers to sleep on a short commute.

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  Amazing Car - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By mplueger - February 13 - 4:34 am

  This is my 3rd Es 350, 2005,2009, now 2012,the exterior has never looked better, bought 2012 because did not like interior of 2013 coming out in August.The ride is quite and very comfortable, standard sound system is fabulous . car now uses regular unleaded, previous Es 350s required premium, car is quick,quite and reliable,get many compliments on the way my car looks, bought dark gray. Sticker 39.109- worth every penny.Got a great deal from Bredemann Lexus in Glenview Illinois [non-permissible content removed].

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  Nothing Like a Lexus - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Kathy Daley - February 11 - 7:02 am

  I could not afford a new Lexus. But still so happy with the 2012 I just purchased as a pre-owned vehicle.