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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  DO NOT buy Black! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Christa - January 22 - 7:26 pm

  I purchased a Black ES 350. I love everything about the car except the disappointing paint color. I choose black and did not know there is not a clear coat on it. I drive 40,000/year and I have owned the car 9 months and have to get my bumper replaced & painted for the 3rd time! The paint chips VERY easily and I dont see why I should have to spend $1,000 to purchase the clear bra when I have never had to do that on the last 4 Nissan Maximas I have driven the same amount of miles per year.

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  Its definitely NOT a fancy Camry - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By LXS LVR - January 3 - 8:50 pm

  I have been a Toyota fan most of my life and always thought a Lexus was a fancy Camry - Once I drove my ES 350 I knew I was so wrong. Interior fit & finish is flawless and the MPG is a consistent 27-28 in town and 34 on the hwy. Hard to beat this with 272 hp V-6. Problems Ive read about transmission and others simply are not true at least with this car. My wife and I have to fight over who gets to drive it. Its quick, safe as can be and with a spoiler, gold package, large tires its a real "head turner". It is truly a great car and the extras you get over a Camry XLE for example are well worth it. Resale value of a Lexus is awesome.

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  Just leased 2014 ES350 - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By crobot83 - January 3 - 10:55 am

  I can tell you that HID headlights are not standard, so if you want that make sure its included. Thus far, the car has been good. Will have it for a few years on lease and so far Im impressed. I generally only buy BMW but this Lexus has been of similar build quality and styling.

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  My New Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By june - December 27 - 11:03 am

  I like my new Lexus, and I am having a great deal of fun driving it. I dont see a great deal of difference from my old Camry, but its nice owning and driving a luxury car.

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  Great car! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By classic1555 - December 16 - 1:16 pm

  This is my third lexus and by far the best. I bought the Premium Package; did not want the Ultra. The improvements are many and are substantial. The new engine/six speed transmission package is outstanding. I think it will convert any diehard manual transmission folks. I include myself in that category. What a pleasure to drive. The ratios on the transmission are suberb, especially under hard acceleration! The technology available just blows away the competition in this price niche. Rear camera;park assist; bluetooth; air pressure; and on and on. I recommend the car to everyone.

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  900 miles so far and no regrets - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Don - November 3 - 7:20 pm

  I never thought Id want a Lexus; then I drove an ES350 and it made me forget the competition. The ride is incredibly smooth but still very solid, not floaty. The car is very quiet. I like the standard radio; sound quality is fine for me. Definitely drive a few and drive for a while; I think the seats are very different without the Premium Plus package; w/o the PP package the lumbar support was just painful; PP seats with base extender feel very different; very comfortable for me. Gas mileage is impressive for a V6. Controls seem well placed. I like the power outlet in the glovebox; you plug your phone in to recharge it and use the bluetooth to make calls.

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  Lexus ES 350 with Ultra Beats The Rest - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Lexus Finatic - October 23 - 2:53 pm

  We have 905 miles on the odometer, but there are a few problems with it. The homelink refuses to connect with our garage door system. The rear view mirrors tilt down in reverse like theyre supposed to, but they dont come back up. Im sure these problems are nothing that the dealer cant fix, but with a car in this price range, youll expect something better. Size was the issue for us so we looked at the Audi A6, BMW 530xi, the Mercedes E350 4Matic, the Infiniti M35x, and even the Lexus GS350 awd.The ES has the best value and has the best ride for the price even though the handling cant beat some, but its expected.

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  A class of its own - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By denver driver - October 15 - 4:23 am

  Bought ES 350 after driving much of the competition. I drove this one last and quickly realized the car was ar superior to the others. It it truly luxuriuos. The leather is so soft and comfortable. The interior is high quality, with the exception of a few cheap plastic items, such as the coin & sunglass holders, etc. Drive & steering is very smooth - the other cars I test drove werent even close. An unbelievable amount of options on this car and technology out of this world. Sports-car like power, but corners fast poorly. Quiet drive under 55. Smooth styling. Nav. well worth the money. I love cars have owned many nice ones. This is my favorite yet.

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  Awesome car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By LLV2 - October 8 - 4:00 am

  Just bought this car a several days ago and am loving every minute of it. The engine and ride are silky smooth. Interior is well-designed. Mine is the tungsten pearl (silver) with light silver interior. Exterior much improved over the old ES 330. This car is built for a younger audience unlike its predecessor. One more thing, the acceleration is superb. This ES 350 beat out the BMW 325i by .1 second from 0-60.

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  Out-of-Date GPS Data - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Andrie Chen - October 4 - 10:00 am

  The GPS data is either out-of-date (about 20 year) or incomplete. The dealer didnt advise me when I purchased the car neither did the salesperson told me how to get the up- to-date data.