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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  Steering shake & wobble at highway speed - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By zee - February 15 - 8:43 am

  The car is nicely built. At 65 mph and above at highway speeds the car wobbles and the steering wheel shakes.The car has been in for repairs at least more than 5 times in two months. At the dealership they tested new ES 350 2007 cars from the lot, they all had the same problem.The dealership and the Lexus company cannot fix this problem. Lexus HQ from California cannot suggest any repair to this problem, they say it is the characteristic of the car and I should keep driving the car with the steering shake and wobble at highway speeds. I am totally frustrated with this car experience. Spending $40000 and asking for headaches.

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  DO NOT buy Black! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Christa - January 22 - 7:26 pm

  I purchased a Black ES 350. I love everything about the car except the disappointing paint color. I choose black and did not know there is not a clear coat on it. I drive 40,000/year and I have owned the car 9 months and have to get my bumper replaced & painted for the 3rd time! The paint chips VERY easily and I dont see why I should have to spend $1,000 to purchase the clear bra when I have never had to do that on the last 4 Nissan Maximas I have driven the same amount of miles per year.

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  Just leased 2014 ES350 - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By crobot83 - January 3 - 10:55 am

  I can tell you that HID headlights are not standard, so if you want that make sure its included. Thus far, the car has been good. Will have it for a few years on lease and so far Im impressed. I generally only buy BMW but this Lexus has been of similar build quality and styling.

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  My New Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By june - December 27 - 11:03 am

  I like my new Lexus, and I am having a great deal of fun driving it. I dont see a great deal of difference from my old Camry, but its nice owning and driving a luxury car.

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  Out-of-Date GPS Data - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Andrie Chen - October 4 - 10:00 am

  The GPS data is either out-of-date (about 20 year) or incomplete. The dealer didnt advise me when I purchased the car neither did the salesperson told me how to get the up- to-date data.

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  Bad Shifting - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ron Stoeckel - July 15 - 6:46 am

  Car sounds like diesel when it is cold.Transmission slips between 2nd & 3rd gears when cold on uphill.

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  Dont buy an ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By gjfes350 - July 11 - 3:23 pm

  My first experience as a Lexus owner has been a nightmare. I have had one problem after another with the car (transmission replaced, non-functioning voice response, navigation system, Bluetooth, tire pressure sensors, etc.).

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  Great car but - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By CarMan - July 4 - 3:36 pm

  I love the car and especially the electronic key system. However, I would likely not purchase another Lexus unless two things are changed. First, to lock the doors, you simply push the button on the door, which is easy to forget if youre in a hurry. The doors need to lock automatically after 30 sec-2 min., determined by the customer. Its far too easy to leave the car unlocked. Second problem is the very inadequate GPS. I have a $200 Garmin GPS for use in rental cars when I travel. It speaks street names for turns and gives traffic info (features found in various brands for years). The Lexus GPS has neither of these or other advanced features. Lexus needs to fix these problems.

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  The best value of any entry luxuary car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Steve in CT - June 13 - 12:26 pm

  Owned for 1 month. I researched every so called entry luxury sedan out there. None of them had the smooth and quiet ride that I have experienced with the 2007 ES 350 Lexus. Before you purchase an entry luxury car do yourself a favor and sit in the back seats of the Infiniti and Acura. No comparison for comort. Only sedan that can comfortable fit 5 adults. Try that with the competition. When driving over 60 miles per hour in each car, You will notice some noise in every auto except the Lexus. Much smoother, cushier ride then the Infiniti and Acura. Fuel economy. Im getting 23-24 mph in city. All hwy. was 28-29 mph. Using mid grade gas.

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  Need more work - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Frank - May 17 - 5:16 am

  Engine and wind noise greater than my ES 300. The ride is much harsher and appears to be a true sports suspension. Not what I was looking for.