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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  It is a Toyota with below par electronic - 2015 Lexus ES 350
  By David P. - April 30 - 5:11 am

  This car is sold as a luxury vehicle, but after owning it for while we realized nothing is luxury about it except the grittiness of the company and the dealership. Basically, this is a Toyota with a little better paint job outdated electronic and very frustrated entertainment system. Most disappointing is the outrages maintenance prices $300 for an oil change and $475 a yearly charge if you want your navigation system to be updated. Personally, I would not recommend buying this car.

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  Reliable comfortable,and quick! - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Anthony J. Paparella - March 26 - 8:57 am

  I have owned this 2012 ES350 car for one year and find it to be a real fine vehicle.I do wish mine had navigation and a rear camera but most everything about the car is satisfactory so far.Plenty of pep,seats are comfortable (heated and cooled)and ride is excellent. I would say the ride is the best feature as it is quiet and smooth.As far as transmission and handling I would say it is adequate and could have used some improvement but definitely not a big deal. I would like to see a heated steering wheel and definitely an all wheel option for the ES350.I also have HID lighting where the lights turn with the angle of the road and those are great to have.I really dont know how it handles in snow as I dont drive it in the snow but use my wifes Toyota Rav 4 in wimter weather.We have owned Toyotas for 12 years now (though I do have a Corvette also) and their reliability has been nothing but fantastic for us.I would love to own a Lexus LS 460 AW drive but not sure if that will ever happen.Maybe if I get to old for my Corvette I can use that for a tradeup. Anyways Toyota-Lexus make great automobiles as far as my family is concerned and I recommend them.

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  2008 Lexus ES 350 - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By haleigh - January 23 - 9:06 am

  Comparing to my 2004 ES 330 it is a slight improvement. Keyless entry and telescoping wheel are nice additions. Engine/transmission are a slight improvement but engine is louder. Tires are not as good as was on 2004. Lexus has cut some corners hopefully not in area of reliability. Controls for interior lights are much too confusing and dont seem to make much sense. Battery is down graded from 2004. Center console is a joke compared with 2004. Manual shifting (s) mode is ideal for snowy/icy driving. Handling is just o.k. Four wheel drive might be a good feature for the future. Extra cost for an XM radio is rather high and location of special antenna is not good.

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  Loaded with value - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Melvin Monconduit - January 7 - 12:17 pm

  Its not a hi performance car. Its extremely quiet and smoothness is very good. Technology is too complicated and distracting. The more you use it however, the easier it gets, especially if you can master the speech commands. Its Mark Levinson audio system is fantastic. Quality is evident in exterior paint, interior seating with adequate room for a 62" driver. Still bump my head occasionally on door opening, when exiting or entering drivers seat. I dont care for fake leather. Looks cheap in the cabin. However, it fulfills its entry level luxury car descriptions. I bought a Ultra Luxury package with panoramic roof, with all options offered, which overcame many of its shortcomings. I would not be happy with the ES350 equipped with a base or near base option package. My wife who is the main driver, shares my feelings on the technology, and is getting the hang of it. If youve ever owned a true luxury sedan, the Lexus ES350 is certainly a step down, but makes up for it with value, dependability, low maintenance cost, and low fuel cost.

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  ES 350 Door Handle Pulls off door - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By tellitall - December 28 - 1:26 am

  I purchased my ES 350 in June of 2006. This was my first Lexus and Ive been very happy with my car and I had no problems up until this past week. My drivers side door handle pulled off the door. Until I was able to take the car into the dealership I had to snap the handle back onto the door. Initially Lexus was wanted me to pay for labor costs. I disputed those and Lexus paid for the replacement. I have purchased many cars and never, has a door handle broken on any of the cars I have purchased.The door was not tampered with there was no sign of forced entry. I believe this is a defect in construction.

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  WATCH OUT FOR THE PAINT - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By scotish1 - December 5 - 2:51 pm

  I did all my research before I bought my 2012 Lexus ES350, heard nothing but good things and heard nothing about people having paint issues. I have owned only high end cars most of my life, so I am on the compulsive side when it comes to maintaining my vehicles, I do not use car washes,I have my cars profesionally detailed, do not drive on dirt roads and so on well, I have so many scratches on my Lexus, I stopped counting!! it has less then 4000 miles on it, and it looks like a five year old car. Looked it up on the computer and found they had a class action law suit do to paint problems.

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  My ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By William - October 22 - 4:20 pm

  Ive been driving Lexus since 1999 and I think now Im hooked. I love the car! For the price I rate this car better than the test drive my wife and I had in the 5 series BMW. The car is just all upgrades to say the least. You need the Navigation system even if you know your town like the back of your hand. My overall driving experience is at an all time high. Luxury I finally feel value in paying for. If youre thinking about anything else in the price range, forget it! I even like my ES 350 over the GS 300 because its just so grown up. The only thing I would do different is get it loaded and not just with Navigation, but after the test drive I couldnt wait! Neither should you and your family!

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  So this is a Lexus? - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By joe - July 23 - 1:43 pm

  Have driven this car for 6 months and agree that it is well built, comfortable and devoid of any driving sensations. My car has the throttle lag, noisy engine at start-up, rain-sensitive wipers that cannot understand when to stop wiping and consequently smear the windshield, rattles in the passenger door, etc., etc. I will definitely look at Cadillac next time!

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  Initial - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Dave - July 18 - 3:26 pm

  The car has a vibration, it drifts to the right, and the steering wheel is off center to the left. The heated seats only get slightly warm at best. The dealer said that it was within Lexus standards. In my years of owning cars they have the lowest Ive ever owned. The GPS is the most difficult ones Ive operated, and Ive used several in cars, boats, and airplanes. Ive used the very first built and fly a Gulfstream with two FMS that have GPS inputs. The GPS miles out of the way and will not use roads that have been around for decades. The POI are years out of date.

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  One of first built - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Tommy Mather - April 11 - 8:13 am

  This is not my first Lexus and the only problem is the car has developed squeaks and rattles, sounds like the whole panel has a body flex when going over bumps. The whole panel behind and in roof sounds as if it is bending and making a terrible noise. It has been back to dealer and they have replaced seat and other parts still the same noise rattles/vibrates when I turn. I have stopped using the car 7,000 km in the last year used to be over 20,000 km. Great performance. I have only used premium and it returns great gas mileage. It takes several tries for the voice-recognition system to work. I will most likely go back to Infiniti.