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. - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By MA - February 19 - 12:19 am

  Just get it, you wont regret.

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  Poor Ride, Noisy and Cheap Finishes! - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By JC - January 31 - 7:03 am

  If youre expecting a quiet smooth ride like the older models forget it! This is my 3rd and last Lexus ... theyve cheapened it so much. When you close the door it sounds like a tin can. So disappointed. Air cooling on the ventilated front seats even after the fix is still poor. Use to be a great car ... now it feels like a toyota.

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  One year on and no regrets! - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By clearasmud - January 30 - 12:16 pm

  This is a well-rounded mid size luxury car. The ride is impeccably smooth and quiet, the controls (with the exception of the seat heaters) are well placed, and the fit and finish are superb. My only complaint with this car is the 6 speed transmission. It tends to hesitate slightly when cornering. Im not a "spirited driver", so this does not bother me tremendously. The gas mileage is better than expected. I average around 24 mpg (mostly city driving). On the highway, I get 30 - 35 mpg. This car is intended for drivers who value comfort and serenity over handling. Dont get me wrong, the car does handle well but there are sportier sedans on the market (but none ride as well).

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  2008 Lexus ES 350 - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By haleigh - January 23 - 9:06 am

  Comparing to my 2004 ES 330 it is a slight improvement. Keyless entry and telescoping wheel are nice additions. Engine/transmission are a slight improvement but engine is louder. Tires are not as good as was on 2004. Lexus has cut some corners hopefully not in area of reliability. Controls for interior lights are much too confusing and dont seem to make much sense. Battery is down graded from 2004. Center console is a joke compared with 2004. Manual shifting (s) mode is ideal for snowy/icy driving. Handling is just o.k. Four wheel drive might be a good feature for the future. Extra cost for an XM radio is rather high and location of special antenna is not good.

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  Inferior seating material - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Craig Mack - January 20 - 10:14 am

  On a 500 mile road trip you will notice how Lexus cut corners. The pleather armrest irritated my elbow so bad that on the way back from Miami I had to buy a hand towel to cover armrest to keep elbow from hurting. Never had this issue on road trips in my Mercedes or Jaguar!

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  Upgrade from my special edition Camry - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By xylver07 - January 7 - 5:40 pm

  What an upgrade so far. Ultra-powerful if you compare to 4 cylinder Camry. Nice black leather interior with metallic ruby exterior. I drive highway most of the time this one do the job perfectly and only put premium gas on it. Superb performance 31-32 mpg so far I would get set of new tires to avoid annoying road noise. I love it so far

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  Loaded with value - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Melvin Monconduit - January 7 - 12:17 pm

  Its not a hi performance car. Its extremely quiet and smoothness is very good. Technology is too complicated and distracting. The more you use it however, the easier it gets, especially if you can master the speech commands. Its Mark Levinson audio system is fantastic. Quality is evident in exterior paint, interior seating with adequate room for a 62" driver. Still bump my head occasionally on door opening, when exiting or entering drivers seat. I dont care for fake leather. Looks cheap in the cabin. However, it fulfills its entry level luxury car descriptions. I bought a Ultra Luxury package with panoramic roof, with all options offered, which overcame many of its shortcomings. I would not be happy with the ES350 equipped with a base or near base option package. My wife who is the main driver, shares my feelings on the technology, and is getting the hang of it. If youve ever owned a true luxury sedan, the Lexus ES350 is certainly a step down, but makes up for it with value, dependability, low maintenance cost, and low fuel cost.

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  ES 350 Door Handle Pulls off door - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By tellitall - December 28 - 1:26 am

  I purchased my ES 350 in June of 2006. This was my first Lexus and Ive been very happy with my car and I had no problems up until this past week. My drivers side door handle pulled off the door. Until I was able to take the car into the dealership I had to snap the handle back onto the door. Initially Lexus was wanted me to pay for labor costs. I disputed those and Lexus paid for the replacement. I have purchased many cars and never, has a door handle broken on any of the cars I have purchased.The door was not tampered with there was no sign of forced entry. I believe this is a defect in construction.

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  Smooth ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Dave - December 20 - 3:00 am

  The car drives very smoothly. Before you know it you are driving 85 and you feel like youre driving 60. I started to buy IS 250 but I am glad I bought the ES 350 because it has more interior room inside car and more space in trunk. It also has smoother ride and acceleration than the IS 250.

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  Third Lexus - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By michelle - December 19 - 7:13 pm

  This is my third Lexus and the experience so far has been favorable. At first I was concerned with the keyless start because I felt I would lock myself out of the car, but now I am used to this feature. The car rides smooth and quiet and the seats are comfortable. The extra horsepower is also noted as an improvement.