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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  Disappointment - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By jose maria campos - January 29 - 10:46 am

  There so many unexpected repairs on the car. Lexus have a good reputation to be very reliable. But didnt expect to have several unscheduled, unexpected repairs. I am so lucky to have purchased a extended warranty. I would suggest to get an extended warranty to all future buyers. Try to look for a warranty that would be good for 200,000 miles. I am very, very disappointed in purchasing this car. I am not sure if I would purchase another Lexus, especially this is my first time to purchase one. I am not sure how Lexus, a high-end automobile company, could sell such a defective vehicle with less than 100,000 miles with a repair list that is too long to list in this box.

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  Luvin my Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Jason B. kane - January 28 - 8:03 pm

  I enjoy the car. As four door sedans go, it is a sweetheart. It is very comfortable, infinitely adjustable and quiet. I got all the bells and whistles: Levinson sound system, nav, rotating headlights, Xenon bulbs, heated and cooled seats, etc. It actually has good acceleration and handles very well for a four door sedan. It gives plenty of warning before you get in over your head. It decidedly is NOT my Daytona Coupe, but only cost half as much and it gets 31 mpg on the road (the Daytona gets 22 but has 600 hp).

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  Better than European cars - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ryan - January 15 - 10:50 pm

  I have owned a BMW and MB but the ES 350 is very fun to drive and much less expensive than its European counterparts. And its a Toyota! Will last for years to come! I considered the G35 and the Acura TL but I test drove all three and was sold on the ES 350. Better interior, handling, smooth ride and features.

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  ES 350 - The best in its class!!! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Leo - January 7 - 11:26 pm

  I have owned my ES 350 for more than 3 months now and so far Im very happy/satisfied. Before getting my ES 350, I have researched for more than a month on which is going to be my next vehicle. I test drove other competitors but the ES 350 is simply the best car of all Ive tested. Pricewise it was also better than the others. Theres plenty of room inside, interior is nice, rides smoothly either in city or highway driving and very responsive steering. I average 24 mpg in both city and highway driving. I currently own and have owned other Toyotas/Japanese vehicles before and they have lasted very long without any problems. Great car! I would truly recommend it!

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  Suburban Dads Performance Car - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By DC Lobbyist - January 5 - 3:00 pm

  The 272 hp, 3.5 V6 liter engine rockets the Lexus ES 350 from zero to 60 in 6.8 seconds, better than the 2009 Mercedes Benz C300 Sport’s 228 hp 3.0 liter V6 (7.1 secs.) or the 2009 BMW 328i automatic’s 230 hp 3.0-liter V6 (6.9 secs.) With 95.4 cu ft. of interior space and 14.7 cu. ft. of cargo space, the Lexus has considerably more room for car seats, strollers, etc. than either the BMW (93 cu. ft. int./ 12 cu. ft. cargo) or the Mercedes (88.2 cu. ft. int./ 12.4 cu. ft. cargo). And its packed with options that would make Q jealous (voice activated GPS, back up camera, air conditioned seats). It cradles you after the daycare drop off and can waste most of the other cars on the road.

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  They did it again - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By aitchbee - December 31 - 8:23 am

  I had the original 1990 LS 400 and this beats it handily for less money. Got one loaded and could not be happier. Very comfortable with plenty of power and great looks. This car is actually a real bargain.

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  Awesome vehicle - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Barby - December 29 - 7:56 pm

  I have so loved this car. I love running my hundreds of errands for the kids and family everyday. It has made my hectic lifestyle a completely new experience!

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  Best car Ive owned - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By bggas400 - December 21 - 7:33 pm

  The car is sturdy, fast, reliable, and comfortable. I love that I never have to use the keys with the push button ignition and sensors that unlock the door when you grab the handle. The only issues Ive encountered are the transmission seemingly skipping around 40 mph but I guess thats the intuitive response. The other thing is I dont believe that the paint job is the best. It seems to chip easily. The nav system is great but it at times will take you on some strange routes.

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  Love this Vehicle - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By LOVE THIS VEHICLE - December 18 - 1:43 pm

  Just purchased the 08 ES 350. Have driven it about 3 weeks and put over 1400 miles on it. Great car. Very quiet and comfortable. I also own an Acura TL which I love, but there is no comparison to the comfortable ride in the ES. Great car. I read all the reviews for the 07 and decided to wait for the 08s before I bought. I have not experienced any of the problem with down shifting reported in the 07s. Be careful with the remote in your pockets against other keys. It could accidentaly let the windows down.

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  Even Better Than the Last One - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Wilkins - December 7 - 9:26 pm

  I returned a leased 2007 ES-350 with a leased 2010 on 11-04-09. Ive driven it 600 miles as of this writing. The 2010 retains all the qualities of the 2007, but adds more. There are only minor exterior cosmetic changes, but they add to the look of the car. A better quality wood and judicious use of chrome have refined the interior appearance. The car rides pretty much the same as the 2007. Although no significant change has been made to the drivetrain, seems to accelerate much faster when you "punch" it.