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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  Lexus has a winner here - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By RPA - April 18 - 9:46 pm

  This car is smooth, from acceleration to braking it is one smooth ride and very quiet. If youre considering a 2006 model or earlier forget it, this car is a huge improvement and the styling is much better.

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  Nice Car, Nice value - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ben J. Smith - April 18 - 12:53 am

  Very well built machine with excellent design and power. Very roomy for midsize sedan with good room in back seating area. 3.5 (272hp) engine provices excellent acceleration and smooth power. At 80 mph it seems like you are doing 50 mph. Car is very quiet and smooth. Seating is excellent. Trunk has good space (fits 3 golf bags with ease). Finish is excellent and everything seems to fit.

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  Nice car - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By Tammy Harrington - April 16 - 7:31 am

  Its a very nice car, I definitely recommend it.

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  Love this Car!! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Holly - April 6 - 7:00 pm

  I purchased my ES 350 in late December of 2006 after driving a Chevy SUV for the past 4 years. What a difference!! I have loved every minute of driving this car! I havent experienced any of the road noise problems that I have read about on this site, but have had some issues with the transmission "missing" between 3rd and 4th gear. I spoke with the dealership about this and was told that it is a computer problem that they are aware of that will be fixed as soon as the program is made available to the dealerships. This is my first Lexus and, I must say, Im very impressed with the quality and attention to detail that went into this car - especially for the price.

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  Best luxury value - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By mekianov - March 13 - 8:20 pm

  The ES is the best luxury value sedan in my opinion. Its all weather friendly and it offers plenty of power and its loaded up with equipment all for $42000 for a full size sedan. Something you need to pay $10000 more for a Mercedez, BMW or Infinity and you sacrifice the fuel economy because of a heavy all wheel drive. The car is quiet and nimble, smooth and extremely stylish.

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  So far Im enjoying the car - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Patricia - February 26 - 1:20 am

  I have never owned a Lexus. Previously we owned a 2001 C320 Mercedes, which I loved. It was just not a reliable vehicle, in the shop for problems at least once a year. After reading reviews about the ES350 we decided to give it a try. So far Im enjoying the car. The ride is nice, not quite as quiet as the Mercedes, but very nice. Gas mileage is great, 29mpg cant complain about that. GPS is fun, and the bluetooth I like. No complaints so far...

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  2015 Lexus ES350 - 2015 Lexus ES 350
  By qwkcut - February 25 - 10:57 pm

  I picked up a 2015 Lexus ES350 for my wife on Valentines Day to replace our 2003 Lexus ES300. We couldnt be more happy with all the changes/ upgrades that this new model brings to the table. I rent cars several times a month and have always told my wife that our 2003 Lexus drove better, interior quieter and functionality of gauges better suited than any rental car foreign or domestic that I have ever had. This holds true for the 2015 model as well. BMW and Mercedes only wish they had the repair history of the Lexus ES350. Lexus voice command navigation and Microsoft mouse type entry keeps your fingers off the screen and eyes on the road.

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  Very Nice Car! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Iqbaldhillon 2 - February 10 - 7:20 am

  In January I bought a brand new ES 350 and was very impressed from day one. I average 25 miles to the gallon all the time. The power is also great, the new 6-speed automatic transmission packs a punch when driving. The ride is also very smooth and comfortable, only one problem so far, which is my CD player, everything else seems to be very impressive.

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  Just what you were promised - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By fred savoy - January 30 - 10:36 am

  This car is precisely what it is supposed to be. A very quiet luxurious ride with ample power and very good gas mileage at a relatively low price.

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  Pursuit of perfection? Please catch up. - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By dbllc - January 29 - 1:36 pm

  I agree with a writers assessment about noises, poor highway handling and the so-so radio. The important problem is the highway handling. At 60 to 65 mph and above, the car seems to have a wobble, and the steering wheel actually shakes. I am still working with a dealer to fix this. From day 3 of owning the car I have had noises, creaks, rattles, whatever inside. Most of the dashboard noise has been fixed now, but other noises are coming from pillars or doors. I drive a lot, so the problems are very disappointing.