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:

• 

  Beautiful car but - Navagition system has to be fixed - 2011 Lexus ES 350
  By raj02 - December 19 - 6:05 am

  Just a beautiful car!

• 

  Radio is horrible - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By pickles - December 11 - 10:00 am

  I like the car except for the radio it fade out and even becomes static, they know about the problem but wont do anything.The antenna is in the back window and you cant tint the windows because they told me the radio will even work worst and they try to sell you extras. So beware if you like the radio it wont work so well

• 

  bad leather seats - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By Rick P. - December 9 - 1:34 am

  before you purchase a lexus their interior leather is the worst I have ever seen in a so called luxury car. have a 2012 and have already had to replace the seat covers the perforated inserts just plain ripp. Had to pay $1700.00 per seat to replace just the cushions. expected much better and they say normal wear and tear! 4 YEARS AND RIPPS. KIA has a better interior than this at 10th of the price. beware!

• 

  ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Jackson - December 5 - 8:16 pm

  This car is enjoyable to drive, comfortable and quiet. It has great performance. We have owned two Toyota Camrys, and now the Lexus ES 350; we are very pleased with this car.

• 

  WATCH OUT FOR THE PAINT - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By scotish1 - December 5 - 2:51 pm

  I did all my research before I bought my 2012 Lexus ES350, heard nothing but good things and heard nothing about people having paint issues. I have owned only high end cars most of my life, so I am on the compulsive side when it comes to maintaining my vehicles, I do not use car washes,I have my cars profesionally detailed, do not drive on dirt roads and so on well, I have so many scratches on my Lexus, I stopped counting!! it has less then 4000 miles on it, and it looks like a five year old car. Looked it up on the computer and found they had a class action law suit do to paint problems.

• 

  Just over 5,000 miles on it. - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By carl - December 3 - 9:46 am

  We purchased our ES 350 new. So far we are VERY pleased. We have nearly 6,000 miles on it and our over-all fuel economy is right at 30 mpg! Highway we will get 34! Very pleased with that. The car is fun to drive and very spirited in acceleration. We opted for the upgraded wheels, pin striping and window tinting. That gives the car a really nice look. Also the all weather floor mats are good looking addition. Gives it a more sporty look.

• 

  Outstanding Vehicle - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Ed from NY - November 24 - 10:30 am

  Smooth, Quiet, comfortable and powerful. Loaded with hi-tech useful features. The new enform system is outrageous. No longer have to struggle setting the Nav system. Push a button and tell the attendant where you want to go and presto its set. Mark Levinson stereo system is amazing, you have to hear it. Many previous options like XM radio and rain sensing wipers are now standard. Features are too numerous to mention here. The car is just a pleasure to drive, sit back and watch the miles disappear and arrive refreshed. We are enjoying the quality experience this automobile offers. Very reliable, this is my 3rd ES in the last 10 years. I have yet to bring one in for anything but reg. service.

• 

  Heres the skinny on the ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By tomselina - October 25 - 5:20 pm

  This is my first Lexus, and now I understand. Beautiful car with a great balance of upscale comfort/technology and power/performance. In only a few days worth of mixed driving, Im averaging 26.5 mpg. The Mark Levinson DVD/nav system is incomparable, and the Bluetooth system works great. It plays telephone sound out of drivers front speaker on the dash with microphone near the rear view mirror. People dont know youre on a speakerphone. Plenty of room for 4 adults, possibly 5. Like the backup camera, front and rear backup sensors, and the keyless entry and push button start.

• 

  Lexus es350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By the2007es1 - October 25 - 5:39 am

  My dad bought a 2007 es350 and all i have to say is good job Lexus. This car is the best bang for your buck because you get the great gas mileage when you need it but also you got the power when you need it. After owning this car for a little while we had to get the transmission replaced. That is the only problem we had with this car. This car is very fun to drive and great for long trips. This is the best car for trips because you have the quiet ride and the great gas mileage. After driving this car across country twice i would not buy any other car. If you own a Lexus es50 and you could either fly or drive across country if i were you i would drive.

• 

  Cant beat it for the price - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By William Kayen - October 23 - 12:46 am

  I have the car for one week and love it. Traded in my BMW 325Cic. New car is so quiet and has great power. Plenty of room compared to my convertible.