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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  Quality, Quality, Quality - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Brian - September 26 - 12:40 pm

  Definitely a quality made vehicle with all the bells and whistles for under $47K. A good long term investment that should give me years of reliability while enjoying the comfort and features of a beautiful luxury sedan, the ES 350.

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  Just love it - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By tstrauss4 - September 15 - 3:06 pm

  It handles and rides so well. Just great on highway. Around town still great. Like safety features and quiet and smooth ride. Like the low tire feature. Former car 94 ES 300. Nuf said.

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  Great value in a near luxury sedan - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By rhjackson - September 6 - 12:36 am

  This is my third Lexus. My preference would have been a GS350 but I decided on the ES350 because of the cost. I am not disappointed with my decision. Although some of the interior appointments are inferior to the GS (like the door panels) the overall interior is very good. The car is very quiet and the ride and handling are excellent for my usage. Compared to my ten year old GS, the electronics are a bit overwhelming at first but after about a week, I feel comfortable with the controls. There is an overall feeling of refinement which dominates the driving experience. I feel the ES is the best value in the Lexus line. I had the optional body side moldings installed.

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  Lexus 350ES GREAT BUY - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By Olivia Crouch - August 22 - 6:24 am

  Lexus 350Es is big, comfortable, quiet car. Have owned 3 of them & will probably buy a 4th

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  Lucky to be alive - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Lucky - August 15 - 10:30 am

  My husband and I had matching ES 350s. My 2 boys and I were traveling in Washington DC one evening and were T-Boned by a guy going about 50 mph who ran a stop light. My ES 350 saved all 3 of us, it was amazing how the car took over, spun around and landed perfectly between the lines of the road and disengaged itself. The car was totaled but we all walked away. The police officer said we would have had a fatality if not for the safety of that car.

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  #1 Pound For Pound & Dollar-For-Dollar - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Mello-Tony - August 7 - 6:13 pm

  This is my 3rd Lexus and Pound-for- Pound there isnt a better car to be found. It has almost all the options found on my LS 430 and drives and rides almost as nice. The engine is extremely strong and smooth with that Lexus civility but now with true spunk and power! The styling speaks on its own. Its a beautiful car with an agressive front fascia and a gorgeous back-end. I average 24.5 mpg in mixed driving. And the high-end options normally found on top-end luxury vehicles are awesome. I even have a few options not found on my 2004 LS 430 like memory presets on the passenger side, knee bags and my favorite, the Auxilliary input jack for my iPod! This car rocks! I Love it!

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  Lexus could really do better but didnt - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By ChuckHall - July 28 - 4:06 pm

  If you love the feel of the road then you will love this series of Lexus because due to the stiff suspension you will feel every bump in the road. If you are broad in the beam get a different car. When I drove the car I had to shift my position numerous times to feel comfortable - the seat is not wide enough for a larger than average person. There is a wind noise on both sides of the windshield that should never be heard from a car in this price range - and owners of the same style Camry have reported the same noise as well but Toyota/Lexus report that this is normal. If you are long waisted (short legged) get a different car - it is impossible to adjust the height for comfort.

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  Rumble and grumble - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By drivesme - July 14 - 10:50 pm

  I bought my ES Feb 24 on the 26th it developed a shake/rumbling when in Drive or Reverse. The noise and shake are absolutely not what Lexus should be. The dealer tried and said nothing found on the first visit. The second try they had the Lexus rep/engineer from Atlanta look and he replaced one of the engine mounts. It was improved but still not right. Now at 4k miles the vibration and sound is getting worse. The service Mgr rode with me and called The Lexus rep in Atl who said it was normal. BEWARE test drive any ES and watch for the shake and noise. Do not buy the Lexus. I hate my Lexus and will be out of it as soon as Im not upside down.

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  ES 350 - Best car, Best value - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By CapSac - July 9 - 7:06 pm

  Weve had this car for two months and 1500 miles. The seats are very comfortable (Im 61" 250). The ride is silky smooth and very quite. We love the navigation system, and contrary to what "CarMan" wrote, it does give turn by turn voice directions, voice and visual traffic info, and even severe weather info. The only issue with the navi is that you cannot adjust some of its functions while moving. Other than this very minor navi inconvenience the car is perfect for us. It gives great gas mileage even though it is powerful and quick. The fit and finish both inside and out is exceptionally luxurious. We love this car! If youre considering buying one, you wont be disappointed.

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  You Must Drive This Car - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By wofat - June 17 - 4:21 pm

  I spent several months researching vehicles before finally making a purchase. I was focused on a mid to large sedan that would be very comfortable for my long commutes, that would get at least 25 MPG, FWD or AWD, and that would LAST for at least 200K miles. The final list was the 2013 Audi A4, 2013 Hyundai Azera, 2013 BMW 328xi, and the Infinity G37x. After driving and pricing, the G37x and BMW were eliminated. They were simply under-equipped compared to the others at the same price point. The BMW especially was bare bones unless you dropped another 10K. The Audi was eliminated for reliability (big issues with burning oil). After driving the ES350 I was in love. Not squishy at all.