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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  Glorious Automobile - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Denny G - December 14 - 9:36 am

  Gorgeous Royal Ruby Metallic ES 350 purchd in Newport Beach, CA, Oct. 2006. Not easy finding this color with all the extra features. ES has full Ultra-Luxury Pkg, chrome wheels, window tint, and satellite radio. Looks like a fine piece of jewelry. ES replaced 88 Cad, Eldo, and beats Eldo hands down for fuel economy, acceleration, ride (YES!), and features. Love all the techie gadgets/features; discovering more each day. This car can play CDs, DVDs (also movies on 7" screen), and MP3 & WMA audio. Made a music CD in *.wma audio that contained 10 hours of music. Played beautifully in the Mark Levinson audio system.

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  Quiet. Smooth. Bells and Whistles. - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Nish - December 3 - 1:26 pm

  Most features in any car in this price range, extremely happy - quiet and smooth and extremely fast. User ergonomics are simple and efficient. Seats are extremely comfortable.

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  Love my Lexus! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Mary Kay Rowekamp - November 27 - 11:13 pm

  This is my 3rd Lexus and am always super pleased with the total car. The smoothness of the ride and motor with an attractive looking car make it perfect. The Lexus dealerships aim to please and always are courteous. The maintenance records have all been problem free. I was hesitant about the push button start, but have adjusted to it very well.

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  Our first Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By A Town Bubba - November 15 - 4:26 pm

  I finally tempted my wife out of her SUV with this car. After a week of daily use and one road trip, I asked how she liked it. She replied "I will never own anything else". I look forward to many years of driving this and other Lexus cars.

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  Fantastic, except for the Navigation - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By L Cayes - November 4 - 10:03 am

  I replaced a Mercedes E320 for the Lexus ES350. The Lexus is one of the smoothest driving cars I have ever owned. It is quiet, rides and handles great and gets great gas mileage.

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  $38,000 and cheap - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Bill Amesbury - October 27 - 10:35 am

  Check quarter panels as intergration with other parts involves plastic and rubber parts which are cheap and not reliable

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  Love my ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Olu - October 24 - 7:50 pm

  Was more interested in buying the Benz E350 but with a starting price tag of 52K i decided to check out the ES 350 after a friend had let me drive one. It was instant love and the rest is history. My car is not a little over 1 year old and I still love it like the day I drove of the lot. More than enough power to pass on the beltway and comfort like no other car for those long trips. Got the upgraded model with the Panorama roof and Mark Levinson system, well getting me out of this car is hard, believe that .

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  Lexus ES 350 Is A Strange Car - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Sam - September 14 - 7:20 am

  In many ways this car is very nice. It is solid and fast contrary to most user opinions. Even though the car is quiet....it is hard to explain you can hear rattles and noises that are annoying. BMW and Mercedes are better built cars but the ES 350 feels better when you are in the car purely for comfort. The ES 350 needs to get rid of the rattles.

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  This is the car! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By ThomasnSavGA - September 13 - 8:06 am

  Ive had my ES for a month now. The mpg on the first tank of gas was around 25. My current readings are over 28. Wow! It looks incredible in Amber Pearl. Its very comfortable for short commutes as well as longer trips. No troubles at all, and dont expect any. Ill only drive Lexus from here on out.

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  No Complaints - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Sidster - September 9 - 3:50 pm

  The car is a very smooth ride. Great mileage for a its engine size. Avg 21.7 mpg overall, but its mostly driven on roads. Freeway I typically get 30.2 mpg.