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:

• 

  The seats are soooo comfortable! Goodbye Rav4. - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Ryan Scot - June 11 - 1:24 am

  I just traded my 2013 Rav4 XLE for this 2010 Lexus ES 350. The comfort of the Lexus is night and day. The Rav4 had rock hard seats (tilted at an odd forward angle) and a punishing, rough ride. My back could not take it any more. But the Lexus ES350 seats are soft like a recliner and I like the cold air hitting my back side in this TN heat. Also it drives so very smooth and quiet. I dont regret it for a second!!

• 

  Not Quite Lexus Quality - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ron - May 31 - 11:03 am

  The wind noise is a deal killer. It drives me crazy. The ticking of the motor on cold start is like driving a diesel. Many noises made by this car are not Lexus quality. The interior lighting is very moody and dark. There is no switch for the backseat reading light in a Lexus? There are numerous squeaks and creaks from the windshield and dashboard. My ES 300 was better.

• 

  Great Ride - Great Car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Texas Buyer - May 30 - 8:50 am

  Bought the 08 ES350 over the 08 C-Class , 08 new Accord, & 08 TL. Very happy with the car. Extremely quiet and luxurious. Very large interior. A bit larger car then I wanted, but that is a personal preference.

• 

  Eh...not so great - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By ashillington - May 26 - 12:06 pm

  This is my second Lexus. Had a 1997 ES300 that was really reliable. Got another newer model in 06 and was never happy with the quality. There were somethings that were just down right cheap and the car was built so that even minor repairs required 18 hours of labor to reach the places that need fixing. Fuel pump went out quickly (replaced under warranty). Flimsy plastic headlamp connector broke when changing a burnt out bulb ($800 to change a light bulb, really?). Final straw was a $250 AC condenser coil went on what was still a "young" car. $1800 in labor later decided enough was enough. Traded it in for a BMW 5-series as my wife has had great luck with her last 2 Beemers.

• 

  Best car for the amount of money - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By ClemCheng - May 22 - 8:20 pm

  It is a wonderful car for the money. Not as athletic as the Acura TL-S, but it is definitely a comfortable cruiser. Need to test out and drive the car you want on highway first before buying. Heard a lot of complaints about wobbling and dash board squeaking from postings on various sites. In fact, the test model I drove squeaked.

• 

  Its A Wonderful Car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By emlee - May 10 - 9:46 am

  This new lexus is a dream. Completely restyled inside and out, finely detailed and with every convenience a car owner could want. Every expectancy I had when I bought the car has been fulfilled. No disappointments of any kind. Its simply the best car i have ever owned.

• 

  Disappointed - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By texas81 - April 21 - 8:06 am

  After owning my ES 350 with Ultra Luxury package for 3 months, I am truly disappointed. Several rattles have developed in the doors, dashboard, and sunroof. When washing the car, water accumulates inside of the rear taillights. Overall, Im dissatisfied in the build quality of the new ES.

• 

  Relentless Pursuit of Perfection - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By connoisseur1 - March 3 - 3:55 pm

  I was fortunate enough to find a 2009 Lexus ES 350 with 35,000 miles on it that was in mint condition.It is silky smooth and whisper quiet.I have no issues with the steering,and it handles well even around sharp curves.You have the feeling you are controlling a precision instrument. The biggest surprise is how fast it is.It has awsome passing power,and it is also fast off the line. My only minor critique on the car is that although the front seats are decently comfortable,there is room for improvement in that area.

• 

  The Best - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By casting223 - February 19 - 2:03 pm

  Getting real good gas mileage 26 MPG in town, 36 MPG on the highway. I have nitro in my tires and a K&N air filter. Both of these really help.

• 

  Great ride - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Joe R - February 11 - 1:10 am

  Unbelievably smooth ride. Feels like Im in an easy chair. Very comfortable. Quiet ride. Great fit and finish. no major complaints. Also I must complement the dealership for their excellent service and attention to detail.