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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  Would be a return customer - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By cielosf - August 21 - 5:07 pm

  This car rides like your on a cloud. Not a canyon carver, thats what my Corvette is for. If you want a super reliable, comfortable ride, you cant do better than an ES 350 Lexus

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  The Standard By Which I Measure All Cars - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Mark B - August 16 - 8:23 am

  This is my second ES. I previously owned a 2004 ES 330 and found it to be a great vehicle. When the ES 350 was released I knew I had to have one. This car is so fun to drive and has all the bells and whistles you would expect, and more, in a luxury sedan at this price point. I appreciate the quiet ride and the improved power. The seats are insanely comfortable and all of the controls are right at my fingertips. The competition cant match the quality materials and handling of the ES 350. Lexus has an edge that the others cant match.

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  whats not to like? - 2011 Lexus ES 350
  By mattkodak - August 2 - 7:18 pm

  drove the car from the dealers lot to home with the big red bow in the back seat as this was a present for my wife. We had a 2002 es300 we traded in for the 2011 es350. after an initial break-in period we drove to Disney World from our florida home in fort myers. needless to say, the three hour trip was smooth, quiet and thoroughly refeshing as one expects from the lexus. upon arrival at our hotel we were greeted by the bell staff at the front entrance to unload the luggage and check in. They admired the cars exterior and interior as they helped us unload. on the road we also received admiring glances from other motorists as well as when we parked.

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  2007 ES 350 Daily Driver - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By mbolan54 - July 28 - 2:11 pm

  For the entry Luxury Car category, could not recommend more highly. Bought a 2007 CPO in summer 2010. Ruby/Tan appearance always brings praise. Quiet, smooth, with powerful acceleration. Maint: CPO-warr drivers window gasket, later a battery, MXV tires & shocks in late 2012. Mileage 21/33. After years of Detroit (no complaints) and 4 Camrys (run & run) this is the greatest stepup at an equivalent price (CPO vs Camry new). Love the comfort & non-ML sound. A Top Recommend.

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  Lexus equals excellence - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By czimmaro - July 25 - 5:06 am

  I owned Cadillacs for most of the last forty years. Six months ago we leased a 2014 Lexus ES 350 and find it every bit as luxurious as the Cadillac and exceedingly superior in other areas such as fuel economy, useable trunk space, interior legroom in back seat, and overall value. The dealer, Lexus of the Palm Beaches , added to the enjoyment by not wasting my time and offering a fair deal in the first place with no hidden costs. This continued when I purchased an extended warrantee for a different make of car from the finance dept. of Lexus and once again received a great value with no wasted time.

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  whats not to like? - 2011 Lexus ES 350
  By mattkodak - July 24 - 1:12 am

  i recently traded in our 2002 es300 for the new 2011 es 350. We drove it to Disney World for a four day vacation. it was the only one we saw on the road and in orlando which made us feel different in this age of lookalike autos. Needless to say, we received many admiring looks when driving or parking the car. upon arrival at our hotel, the bell staff greeting us to carry our luggage and helping us out of the car, remarked how great the car looked inside and out. The three hour trip from our home to lake buena vista was smooth and quiet as we were used to in our lexus. our fuel economy was as advertised and the engine was breaking in smoothly.

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  what a wonderful surprise - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By tb - July 23 - 10:10 am

  This car is a very smooth ride which I am not accustomed to. I thought my bmw rode well until I experienced the lex. Will always buy a lex. No other car for me. The only complaint is the stereo system is not as strong as the bmw. The driving experience is wonderful. BMW WHO????

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  Major problems steering rod, transmission, leak - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By mike - July 12 - 4:13 pm

  I have had this car for 4 years. It is a weekend car. The car is fun to drive. But I have had the transmission replaced, when it barely had 10,000 miles on it. It would change gears with a major kick. After a week my vsc came on. About a month ago when I would turn my steering wheel I would feel clicking noises. So back to the shop it went and their was a defect in the steering rods. I also had a oil leak and a plug was defective so they replaced that. Thank god! This car inst what I use daily.

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  Awesome - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By FinsRight - July 7 - 6:50 am

  The changes from 2009 to 2010 are very significant. The side molding, shape of the front grille & headlights, tail lights wrapping around further, Lexus Enform, and build in Satellite radio are just a few. The vehicle is perfection in motion, and bank vault quiet. Fast but not race car handling around corners. In fact, I do feel a little body roll, which is disappointing. But a joy to ride in. Compliments from many strangers.

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  Luxury at a value - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Jerry - June 16 - 3:53 am

  Very quiet, smooth riding vehicle. Has most features and feel of a luxury car sold at nearly double the price.