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 car at middle class price - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By jarmstr73 - October 11 - 11:16 pm

  I leased this car last week after trading in my 2005 Honda Pilot. Needless to say its like going from cattle class to first class on an airplane. This vehicle has many of the features of the LS (Lexus flagship model) at less than 1/2 the price. Acceleration is competent but the front wheel drive reminds you this is not German engineering. Interior creature comforts abound, seats are comfortable (heated & cooled), sound system is good, features like bluetooth, Navi, etc. are easy to use and intuitive - unlike many vehicles today. Noise is minimal, ride is soft, feedback is not great - steering is a bit soft. Overall good family car if youre looking for excellent service and low main.

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  Headrest issues prevent a sale! - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By Cristo - September 20 - 2:30 pm

  This automobile was on my short list. Now, after several years, I am finally prepared to purchase a car that will last me for the next 10-12 years. Overall, I was very pleased with the 2016 es350 Ultra Luxury Sedan, and would have "plugged the trigger" and made the purchase. However, due to the terribly designed headrest in this car, I will sadly have to pass. What a shame! The car is everything I need and want. Unfortunately, there really is no way for me to be comfortable while driving. I tend to sit fairly erect when I drive, and the headrest makes me very uncomfortable. I am 60. Now, I am considering my other choice, 2016 Toyota Avalon Limited. Of course, it will lack several "luxury touches", but the headrest is not as intrusive as the es350. I wish Lexus would make an adjustable headrest that you could adjust an inch or two backwards. I know this is for safety, but I feel certain that I am not the only person that feels this way.

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  ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Allan Spanjer - September 5 - 1:33 pm

  My experience with this car so far has been good except for the ventilated seats, driver and passenger, which are agonizingly uncomfortable. The lumbar support digs into your back and cannot be adjusted sufficiently to correct the problem. I tried to get the company to deal with this, but they said it could not be fixed and they blew me off. I sat in other models to compare seats. The nonventilated seats are more comfortable, but none of them compares favorably to the sports model.

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  As compared to the Acura TL - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By btiger14 - July 15 - 9:16 am

  We just leased an ES 350 coming out of a Acura TL. We have found the electronics, including radio and bluetooth to be inferior to the TL. Disappointing. Also some of the features like keyfob by driver (1 or 2) is not available on ES 350 as it is on TL. Very disappointing that satellite radio was not included nor did the dealers stock cars with the option. Had to have dealer add satellite radio at an exorbitant price. Acura TL has this standard. A car in this price range should have an excellent radio; excellent bluetooth; and include satellite radio. Could be the first and last Lexus.

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  Dont Buy the Navigation System for This Car - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By usmcstrategist - July 1 - 5:22 pm

  This is our fourth Lexus. We bought the last three new. Until this model, we liked the car, the value, and the features, even though the latter are pricey. Our beef is with the navigation system. The Obamacare people could do better. A $270 voice-activated off-the-shelf Garmin 2797LMT runs circles around this $2,600 rip-off. Its awful. Based on what Ive read about the 2013-14 models, nothing has changed. That affirms the arrogance of Lexus USA executives. Another tell-tale sign: If one calls the 800 Lexus number, one learns that Lexus management refuses to give the phone reps the tools to do their jobs: they cant see my instrument panel on their monitors. Therefore, they cant help.

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  Delilah DLexus thats what I named her! - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Teri - May 24 - 5:29 pm

  I would recommend this car to anyone especially those who drive a lot and enjoy travelling in comfort. Pros....pretty much everything. Steady. Smooth. Reliable.great looking interior.everything at your fingertips as far as controls go. Cons: sits a little too close to ground therefore it tends to bottom out on steeper inclines/declines. Can be a little hard exiting car at times if your taller than your average. Im now looking to buy my 3rd Lexus, Im hooked on and spoiled to a Lexus. Ill miss Delilah DLexus but I know her sibling is awaiting for me.

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  Sticky catalytic converter - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Pattyk - May 9 - 9:26 am

  Leased this car new. Has a good ride, not as quiet inside as I would have expected, dealership says its the wind shear from the side mirrors! When I have to accelerate a bit hard, the catalytic converter smells really bad. I had this problem with my 2005 es300 too. Does anybody else experience this? Also the drivers side seat belt buckle digs into the back of the seat and marks up the leather when you get in the car. The heated seats dont get very warm as other cars I have drove with this feature. The bluetooth does not always work properly. The front tires wore out at 10K and I did have them rotated by the dealer. The paint scratches very easily. Major torque pull could have accident.

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  Lexus Platinum Service/Until you need it - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Lexus Transmission - March 9 - 5:30 am

  Transmission was bad off showroom floor. It was my wifes car and I never drove it and would not believe her Lexus transmission was bad until we took it in for service at 3000+ miles. Transmission jump in first almost caused my wife to rear end car in stop & go traffic. The transmission had to be replaced requiring entire motor & front end to be dropped out from underneath. Not a happy camper!

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  Great car sans the rattles - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By jeff205 - March 3 - 12:16 am

  This is my second ES. The prior was an ES 330. The car is quiet in terms of road noise. Performance is great unless you are used to driving a high performance BMW. I;s easy to look down and see you are cruising at 80 thinking you are driving at 60. Interior materials are all high quality. I only have 2 complaints. First the sound system is sub-par for this class of vehicle. Second there is as persistant rattle in the sun-roof area that the dealer cannot seem to fix. There are also other bump related rattles that seem to develop during the first 20k miles.

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  The Best Gets Better - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By S, Lee - January 10 - 11:40 am

  This is my 4th Lexus ES and it is head and shoulders above the previous models. Tremendous value for the money with impecable quality. Quiet, with more power (thank you) and, finally, no more clunky hesitant transmission problems. This is a driver friendly vehicle, whose intent is to transport you safely, quietly and luxuriously. I have always thought of the ES as a vehicle that has great potential. Lexus has taken the ES to another level and its not over yet.