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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  2008 Lexus ES350 engine troubles - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By JJ - September 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car new and have had an engine noise from the beginning that sounds like a valve lifter. Lexus started out claiming no noise, then no abnormal noise, than piston slap and finally less than premium gas in the tank. I have all gas receipts and theyre all premium. The NCDS (National Center for Dispute Settlement) funded by Toyota wasnt interested in the evidence disproving the Lexus claim. The noise had gotten worse and Lexus refuses to address the issue. The value of this car will be greatly diminished at trade in time.

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  JUST OKAY - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By CT - December 2 - 3:50 am

  This car is ----JUST OKAY---- This is my first Lexus and probably my last. Lexus simply cannot be compared to BMW, Mercedes, or Infiniti. Lexus simply lacks the technology, built quality, and reliability of the other companies. Oil changes are expensive ($100+) and not to mention the 15000 mile tune up will cost owners ($300+) then again at 30000. Problems: 3 out of the 4 Windows have gone off track, driver door will not auto lock or open (key sensor is broken). And steering wheel leather if falling apart. Transmission is terrible, tooooo much lag when you push the accelerator. If you are looking for a family car for long trips, this is the car for you. MAKE SURE YOU TEST DRIVE FIRST!!

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  Disappointed - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Unhappy - December 22 - 10:30 pm

  Hash ride over bumps. Rear end will leave the ground after hitting bumps on curved highway ramps. Poor interior quality: some defects that Lexus wont fix. Transmission problems - misses gears usually between 3rd and 4th. Poor interior lighting. Limited storage and cup holders. Absolutely horrible seat cushioning. Cant see the wiper stalk while driving. Fair stereo. Car has rattles from day one.

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  Like other first-time Lexus owners, disappointed - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By swa_tech - August 29 - 9:24 pm

  Based on the opinion of a friend, purchased a 2008 ES-350 w/ 56k miles from Lexus dealer. Immediately experienced transmission shift flares, abrupt downshifts. Software update didnt fix it, transmission was replaced. Other issues not yet addressed: soft engine knock (piston slap?), timing chain rattles briefly when engine not started for several days, plenty of interior rattles, and of course paint chipping. While baffled that a car costing over $40k new would exhibit these technical issues at avg miles, I must say the dealer service (Sewell in Dallas) has been exemplary so far.

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  Lexus or over-priced Camry? - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By cosmok - July 1 - 4:00 am

  Smooth, strong engine. Transmission sluggish. Nice fit & finish. Competent ride, marginal handling and braking, very light steering. Speedometer error, reads high, about 10-12%, true fuel mileage is less than indicated. Significant tire noise on rough surface roads is not "Lexus quiet." Paint is very soft, it chips and scratches easily. Not comfortable for most people over 6 tall, especially the driver seat, marginal headroom. The more you look at the interior the cheaper it appears such as door panels, carpet, glove box, dash. Dealer and Lexus support not impressive. Read the Privacy Policy, Lexus may share your personal info including SSN with anyone. Sold the car after 9 mo.

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  $38,000 and cheap - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Bill Amesbury - October 27 - 10:35 am

  Check quarter panels as intergration with other parts involves plastic and rubber parts which are cheap and not reliable

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  Brakes do not work - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By edah2002 - June 9 - 8:10 pm

  Brakes did not work. Was traveling at 10 mph , braked at a light and went into the car in front of me. The brakes DID NOT connect. Hitting the car in front stopped my car Lexus said it was Not their fault BE CAREFUL! Anyone have similar problem?

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  Not totally happy - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By frostyr - January 2 - 2:20 am

  I feel that the car is good but not great. The seats are not very comfortable, the stereo does not sound very good and the voice recognition does not work well. My main complaint is that there is a rattle or creaking from the dashboard. On the plus side, the car has great forward visibility and gets great mileage.

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  Not a car, but rather poorly integrated collection of features - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By mentin - November 10 - 9:52 am

  My wife moved from Infiniti G20 to Lexus ES 350. While the new car is definitely an upgrade in some dimensions, where G20 from the very start felt like well designed car that does everything exactly as you want it to do, ES feels like a poorly integrated list of features - kind of the way (bad) software was done and advertised in nineties. Up to the point that when the rest of the car moved from daylight saving time, the navigation is still on summer time. There are tons of features in this car, but when you actually start to use them, you find out they are garbage.

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  bad leather seats - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Rick P. - December 9 - 1:34 am

  before you purchase a lexus their interior leather is the worst I have ever seen in a so called luxury car. have a 2012 and have already had to replace the seat covers the perforated inserts just plain ripp. Had to pay $1700.00 per seat to replace just the cushions. expected much better and they say normal wear and tear! 4 YEARS AND RIPPS. KIA has a better interior than this at 10th of the price. beware!