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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  Expected Better - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ray Boucher - January 27 - 9:50 pm

  Bought the car as a certified unit at 18K miles. Rattles in the dash and drivers door almost immediately. Loud knocking from injection system (Im told) when the engine is cold. Parts of the car sound "tinny" when bumped or doors are shut hard. Poor lighting inside and particularly in the rear seat area. Console storage is poor due to unusual access method. The door panels and door sills should be something other than plastic which is easily marked during entry and exit - carpet would be nice - not up to the quality of design I expected from Lexus.

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  ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By J R - December 21 - 2:13 am

  My first Lexus. Very comfortable and quiet. Great fuel economy 23/31 for a large, comfortable car. Quality design. Disappointed in the thin paint, rock chips are very noticeable and the Michelin tires wont make 30,000. Large ugly mirrors to compensate for the thick roof supports. The wireless voice commands dont always do voice recognition. Expected more for $40K.

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  Good But not the best - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By Jin - December 21 - 1:16 am

  Been driving about a month now. Changing from Audi A6 07 model, ES gives me more comfort and convenience yet I cant give it five stars since it has a bit unsturdy lower body in the highway driving. Also it has lot of IT stuffs, mobile connections etc. However the User interface is not really user friendly. For instance, its hard to control the navigation. Theres no Navi button anywhere in the panel. In order to go to Nav, at lease two or three steps you need to use fake mouse that ES provides. And its map is really crappy. Voice recognition needs a lot of improvement compared to other German cars. The default speakers are acceptable, but some AM radio stations (although it has HD radio option) sound almost inaudible. The manually folding side mirrors are design fault in the big sized car like ES. Its gas tank is such small that allows to go upto 350 miles with full tank. I know I sound a bit harsh but these are my impression of 2016 ES350.

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  Think about it before you buy this car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By mike - December 5 - 3:13 am

  If you are a driver, this is not your car. Transmission control is poorly designed, hurts economy and has safety issues as it coasts. Too quick to downshift on slight inclines. Driver has no control! Handling feel is not too bad. Pushed hard, exhibits roll. Front drive in any car has handling problems. This car is powerful and has torque steer that can take the car in dangerous directions if pushed hard from a dead stop. Be prepared if hard acceleration is planned or required. Inside lighting is extremely poor. Design goof again. Paint may be thin and prone to scratches. Do not have the dealer service. Charges are 4x what you can by at a service shop.

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  Go Lexus! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By bobsmith99 - December 1 - 3:16 am

  I bought this Lexus and was SO pleased. I got it as a certified pre owned. It is a great quality car. As usual, Lexus and Toyota are ahead of the game. I strongly recommend this car!

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  Be Cautious of the Interiors - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Andy9 - September 30 - 9:46 am

  This vehicle is nice but caution to anyone who looks at buying one--look at all of the plastic in the cabin. There may be wood on the steering wheel but some corners were cut without regard to quality let alone the buyer. Look closely at the interior doors where they provide no leather or even fake leather trim-- just what you might call "high tech" or cheap plastic. The plastic put on interior doors will quickly show wear and tear, and thats coming from one who is extremely careful with a car for years.

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  Its Just A Pricey Toyota - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Dennis - August 2 - 3:16 am

  Very disappointing vehicle. I was looking for an upscale car that would offer low cost of ownership. This car has been very expensive to maintain and has required some costly repairs, including brakes and rotors. Very poor lighting in the cabin at night. Even the kids complain about the lack of lights. Switches are not backlit so finding the right switch is difficult. The temperature controls are absolutely horrible. Has independent temp control for passenger and driver but there is no correlation between what you set and what it delivers. Its as though the sensor is on the outside and not in the cabin. The voice recognition for the phone is mediocre at best. Paint chipping on hood.

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  Best entry level luxury - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By frommx5tomz3 - July 7 - 9:30 pm

  This is not the perfect car for me (Im a driving enthusiast who wants a sportier car). However, for someone who really wants a classy, reliable, beautiful car focused on luxury (my wife), this car is a good value and a good choice. I enjoy riding in the car and driving it is pleasurable for a daily commute. If great handling is your thing, look elsewhere. If you want a luxurious car with great build quality and great creature features for a good price, I highly recommend it.

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  2012 ES 350 is a solid value - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By jimses350 - June 18 - 9:57 pm

  I have 3,000 miles on my 2012 ES which replaced an 02 GS 300 with 236k miles on it which replaced a 95 ES 300 with 170k on it. These cars last! the current car is pretty and quick and quiet, but offers no drama. It does everything well but the handling reminds me of my dads Buicks-well, that may be an exaggeration, but not by much. Apart from that, the 3.5 v6 is plenty quick and the fit and finish are very fine. The std audio system with blue tooth and navi are very functional. You can easily understand them. Seating is good for long hauls-i did 1,600 miles in a week and no problems. I like it but on a country road with twisties, I miss my GS. and that new GS just knocks me out but its $$$,

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  Snow Performance - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Clarence - May 6 - 1:23 am

  Definitely not a snow car. First real snow test. Very poor performance. Perhaps snow tires would make difference.