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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  Happy with my choice - Lexus ES 350 - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Iris - February 10 - 9:06 am

  I love my 2008 Lexus ES 350, so quiet, comfortable, smooth, and saving a lot on gas - highly recommend this one for a luxury car.

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  New Ride - 2018 Lexus ES 350
  By gkmnj2 - January 16 - 1:51 am

  Navigation very mixed. Hard to set and control. Dumb routes sometimes. Miss interprets voice commands frequently. Using own phone probably better.

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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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  Quality, reliable, efficient car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By 2008 Lexus ES 350 - December 18 - 9:53 pm

  Ive had my car for about 2 months and I love the looks, quality, technology, and the efficiency of the vehicle. This is a very nice car and it has to be. You know this is a Lexus which stands for quality and leadership.

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  Practical, but still fun to drive - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Jeannie Renn - December 11 - 7:16 pm

  Nice handling, holds tight on corners. Enough power to feel sporty even if it is a sedan. Interior cabin is comfortable, slightly tight on head room if you are tall. All the bells and whistles for a lot less than you would pay with some other luxury brands. No real reason to buy the smaller engined GS when this has it all plus better acceleration for about 10K less.

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  Lexus ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By garsarno - December 3 - 9:00 pm

  The styling of the car, quality of materials are Lexus expectations. What is disappointing is the need for a new transmission within 1,500 miles of new along with valve noise when cold starting. The mechanical problems are outweighing the benefits with this car. The interior is beautiful, Mark Levinson sound system is the best out there. If only Lexus / Toyota researched the build quality before debuting the car early.

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  Modern trouble free Japanese Cadillac - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By joey - November 25 - 4:56 pm

  This is my second ES, this car is more about luxury than sport. Fuel economy is excellent for the size car and 0-60 specs but requires premium fuel. Overall I am very satisfied with this car.

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  The Squeakmobile - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Eduardo Jimenez - November 19 - 10:00 pm

  My first Lexus, but oh, what a disappointment. Love the ride and the power, but the car has developed squeaks and rattles everywhere. The whole panel behind the rear seat rattles/vibrates when I turn the radio up. The glove compartment door latch broke and wont close. It takes several tries for the voice-recognition system to get the numbers right. The interior materials are cheap: the glove compartment and coin doors are flimsy, and quality of the leather is third-rate. Also, this is not a car for tall people; all-around visibility is VERY limited; the roofline is low, the windowsills are very high and the windshield is very inclined, even the rearview mirror gets in the way.

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  Best of the Bunch - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By gam - November 17 - 4:50 am

  I had looked and test drove many cars before buying my Lexus. It is so comfortable in the drivers seat that I wish I can bring it into my TV room. The ride is quiet; one can hardly heard the road sounds. Performance is outstanding and the structure itself seems very secure. I was looking uppermost for safety, quality and performance and received all three. My only disappointments are that the trunk design and inside compartments in my previous car, 2004 Toyota Solara were superior. Outside of that, I love my Lexus and I have received many compliments on the color, Cashmere Satin.

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  Love it Love it Love it - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Dan Cacich - November 9 - 11:33 pm

  This was my 1st luxury car. Looked for 18 mths. Compared to BMW, Benz and Acura I felt I got the best bang for my buck. No other vehicle had the ride. Mileage is unbelievable at 33 mpg highway. Took it on many trips. Currently shopping for the wife. Looked at a 2010 RX 350. Of course, had to look at everything else again. Decided on the RX. Nothing else comes close to a Lexus. Son in law is a mechanic. He says you can never go wrong with a Lexus.