Lexus ES 350 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.59/5 Average
431 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 281 through 290 of 431.00
  • So this is a Lexus? - 2007 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    Have driven this car for 6 months and agree that it is well built, comfortable and devoid of any driving sensations. My car has the throttle lag, noisy engine at start-up, rain-sensitive wipers that cannot understand when to stop wiping and consequently smear the windshield, rattles in the passenger door, etc., etc. I will definitely look at Cadillac next time!

  • Initial - 2007 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    The car has a vibration, it drifts to the right, and the steering wheel is off center to the left. The heated seats only get slightly warm at best. The dealer said that it was within Lexus standards. In my years of owning cars they have the lowest Ive ever owned. The GPS is the most difficult ones Ive operated, and Ive used several in cars, boats, and airplanes. Ive used the very first built and fly a Gulfstream with two FMS that have GPS inputs. The GPS miles out of the way and will not use roads that have been around for decades. The POI are years out of date.

  • Best Es yet - 2016 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    This is a very comfortable car. I came from a 2014 328i M sport. That car was great too but it was a little small for a family. Plus the reliability scared me every time I got in it. Not this Lexus though. This is a family car! I never worry about if something expensive is going to break or going into limp mode "bmw". I am 35 years old and I always thought I will look like an old man in this car. You know what this car makes you mature and look established. The led headlights are bright and show the road well. The navigation still looks like my 2008 Toyota Camry navigation though. I really wish Toyota would update their nav systems. The seats are la z boy comfortable. I am ready for a road trip. Standard stereo is more than enough. More than enough acceleration and very serine interior. I definitely would buy this over any other brand. Bmw drives nice but costs way too much. Acura is boring, Mercedes is over rated and Audi is in trouble. Buy a Lexus!

  • Expected a better car - 2010 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    This is my last Lexus. The car feels and rides a lot, a lot less secure and solid than my wifes Mercedes e350, she has just oil service, I had to go to the service station 3 times to fix audio system.

  • Very disappointed for this ES350. - 2013 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    Very disappointed for this ES350, its 19km now. I bought it for its serene and comfortable reputation, this vehicle is not quite at lot. 1. The car vibrates when it stopped and the engine is engaged, the vibration makes me so uncomfortable that I have to switch to neutral whenever stopping before traffic light. I took it to dealer to check, I was told its rotors problem. I dont think thats the case because it vibrates also when I dont press breaker.

  • makes you feel like the most interesting man in the world - 2013 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    After 20 years of my own business, and driving an 03 Accord, I deserve this, baby! And I am so smart, I didnt buy a similarly equipped Audi for $10K more! (no, I dont need to take corners at 40mph with my 7 year old, and have my own driving shoes!), I wanted a car that said he doesnt need to carry a briefcase, and this was it. Quiet as a coffin, smooth as my head, this car says luxury. All the high tech stuff I like. Only gripe is that is sort of plain from the side, but very cool from front or back.

  • 2011 ES350 review - 2011 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    Traded in an Ultra 2007 ES350 on new 2011 ES350. Received $1,000 loyalty rebate, factory rebate of $750, 2.9% / 60 months finance rate plus nice dealer discount and appropriate trade in value for my car. Drives smoother and quieter than my 07. Noticed more bling type trim on the interior. Miss the Mark Levinson sound system but the premium sound system is good. Has navigation system that is a lot more complicated than the 07. Like everything so far on the car as it rolls past the 100 mile mark.

  • ES2010: Very good so far - 2010 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    After I owned the vehicle for 5 months, it has 24.5 miles/gl for both city and highway which is very good for 270+hp vehicle. I dont know why people complained about it. I bought this vehicle for #1 safety priority. I hate when drivers follow me too closely when I drove Honda. Now, I can see people keep some distance behind me. I hope the Lexus symbol gives them a second thoughts. My 3 yrs daughter walks freely in the back compare to IS too tight. I gave up fun to drive for safety vehicle. I guess I am too young to drive this vehicle.

  • 07 ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    I traded in an SC430 for this as I needed a family car. I have been very happy with the ride, comfort, and power of the car.

  • A New Breed of Lexus ES - 2007 Lexus ES 350
    By -

    Ive owned many cars from all the German & Japanese manufacturers. I fully appreciate performance and luxury in a vehicle. For this purchase, I was in search of the best combination. The other cars on my list were the Acura RL & Infiniti M35. You might think that the ES doesnt belong in the same class with the others & it doesnt... for performance. With the ES Ultra-Luxury package its close to the same price class. The ES offers the best overall combination of comfort, technology, simplicity, luxury & MPG. In short, its a better value than both the others. It will not handle to the RL or M35 standards, but try it. Its a new breed of ES that is sure to please.

Lexus ES 350 Reviews By Year:
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