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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  Great car!! Beware of wheels with respect ride - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By scottl66 - June 10 - 7:35 pm

  Great car, but beware of the wheels w/ respect to the ride. Most ES come with the standard 17" wheel and rides like a dream. Quiet and smooth. If you buy the Ultra Luxury (UL) version it comes with the 18" wheels, or you can purchase them as an option. the 18" take a low profile tire and the car rides much differently. On the highway at speed you will feel a lot of the road coming through the cabin and may hear it too. Tires can help. Get the Michelins over the Bridgestones regardless of wheel size. the Michelins ride that much better! If considering the 18" wheels make sure you drive a car with them. dont drive a regular demo and think it will drive the same. learn from me :)

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  Nice to Look at - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ric - May 19 - 5:23 pm

  Overall it is pretty much what I expected from Lexus, except the finicky transmission. It is quiet and despite what the competition thinks of its looks it gets plenty of second looks; its black with darkened windows and the spoked rims. It is often mistaken for the much more expensive LS by the uninformed including my boss and co-workers who ask "are we paying you too much?” and "how did you afford that". If only the transmission would settle on a gear and not want to jolt my bad back when in stop-and-go traffic or even the slightest incline I would give it a strong 9. Had to have a new transmission put in at 5000 miles, new transmission only slightly better.

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  Love it compared to competition. - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By brucemeister - May 16 - 11:17 pm

  I have had my ES350 for just over a month and love it. I spent about 6 months research, test-driving and pricing some competitors. See below: - BMW328i: This was the best ride of all of them and fun to drive. BUT the AWD feels stiffer and the steering is less responsive than the RWD, similarly equipped to the ES comes over $50K, post-warranty reliability suspect, premium fuel only. Annoying stop/start engine. - Audi A4: Great quality but feels stiff to drive and cramped in the back. A little small. - C300: Great handling and style, but TOO SMALL and cramped - even for the driver, expensive repairs, premium fuel only. Annoying stop/start engine. Acura TL: OK but not luxury.

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  Not like previous ES cars - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By taxedtoomuch - May 6 - 11:15 pm

  The current ES350 is not you fathers car. Too bad it is not. I have owed five of these cars and this one does not meet previous expectations. It drives like an Rav4. The road performance could be better. The ride is not as soft and cushiony as previous cars. You will feel every bump on back roads and roads that are not perfectly paved. For that reason, I am disappointed. Overall it is quiet and has plenty of power, although there is a slight delay. Remember this is not the inline six as before. My guess is, the IS engineers got ahold of this car instead of the LS engineers and did it their way.

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  It is a Toyota with below par electronic - 2015 Lexus ES 350
  By David P. - April 30 - 5:11 am

  This car is sold as a luxury vehicle, but after owning it for while we realized nothing is luxury about it except the grittiness of the company and the dealership. Basically, this is a Toyota with a little better paint job outdated electronic and very frustrated entertainment system. Most disappointing is the outrages maintenance prices $300 for an oil change and $475 a yearly charge if you want your navigation system to be updated. Personally, I would not recommend buying this car.

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  Best ES By Far - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By J Parsons - April 6 - 9:30 am

  This is my 4th ES, the last being an 04. The 08 is a vast improvement in performance and design - best car Ive ever had. Ultra Lux pkg with all options except dynamic cruise control. Levinson stereo is outstanding. Answers to some problems of other reviewers: 1. Mirror tilt can be deactivated by keeping mirror adjust swith in the center position. 2. Unlock button on key fob can be linked to memory system so seats can adjust pre-entry. 3. Glove box is lit, but only when tail lights are on. 4. Regular fuel is OK, but performance is better on premium. 5. When entering destinations in the nav system, be sure youre in the proper map zone for the address - not your present location.

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  Reliable comfortable,and quick! - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Anthony J. Paparella - March 26 - 8:57 am

  I have owned this 2012 ES350 car for one year and find it to be a real fine vehicle.I do wish mine had navigation and a rear camera but most everything about the car is satisfactory so far.Plenty of pep,seats are comfortable (heated and cooled)and ride is excellent. I would say the ride is the best feature as it is quiet and smooth.As far as transmission and handling I would say it is adequate and could have used some improvement but definitely not a big deal. I would like to see a heated steering wheel and definitely an all wheel option for the ES350.I also have HID lighting where the lights turn with the angle of the road and those are great to have.I really dont know how it handles in snow as I dont drive it in the snow but use my wifes Toyota Rav 4 in wimter weather.We have owned Toyotas for 12 years now (though I do have a Corvette also) and their reliability has been nothing but fantastic for us.I would love to own a Lexus LS 460 AW drive but not sure if that will ever happen.Maybe if I get to old for my Corvette I can use that for a tradeup. Anyways Toyota-Lexus make great automobiles as far as my family is concerned and I recommend them.

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  ES - Good Purchase - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Seth - March 24 - 8:46 am

  Ive only had the car a week; however, Im enjoying the quietness of the drive, navigation system, and comfort of the seating. I would suggest buying the ES-350 for those people wanting a little more luxury than a Camry (without the big sticker price).

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  Good for Gadget Geeks - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By dantobias - March 24 - 5:40 am

  This car, loaded with high-tech features, offers a smooth, comfortable driving experience. Driving it has a "liquid" feel, with steering, braking, and acceleration smoothed out. However, you *do* feel the road beneath you; youre not so totally cocooned that you cant tell when youre going over cobblestones or speed bumps. The engine has more horsepower than earlier ES models, and there is an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. Mine *did* require servicing within the first month to fix a brake rotor that was not machined properly and was causing a moaning sound; however, its worked fine after the servicing.

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  My first Lexus - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By drao - February 29 - 12:10 am

  This is my first Lexus. I have an 08 Infiniti G37 coupe. I am very pleased with the car. It is quiet fun to drive especially on ling trips. The navigation electronics takes getting use to and its true either love it or hate it. We love it once learned how to use it. The dealer was more than helpful eith any questions we had. Since I am retired my wife and I drive rather than fly. We reciently drove from Houston Tx. to Boothbay Maine. The car was a pleasure to drive we averaged 28 MPG! I would definately recommend this car.