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 - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Ern - September 9 - 4:03 am

  Quiet, luxurious, smooth to drive, with effortless power. A great touring car, and handsome besides.

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  Toyota Product Fans - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Toyota Fans - August 23 - 5:46 pm

  We have always had a Toyota product and never had any problems. This is my first Lexus and I absolutely love it and so does everyone in my family and our friends. The Lexus had a more solid, heavier feel than the Infiniti that seemed somewhat lighter and hollow. The Lexus has a classier/rich look.

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  Great vehicle - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Fred kilgore - August 17 - 2:56 am

  Very quite, reliable, great handling and peppy engine with good gas mileage.

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  Excellent car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Rong - August 12 - 3:00 pm

  Low noise and powerful car is my target. I found it ES 350. Its also has very good handling and it hold body tightly. Nicer look than 330, some new fancy features. Amazing gas mileage for 272 horse power

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  Best Car Ever - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By scott badeaux - August 6 - 10:30 pm

  I purchased my ES 350 with the ultra luxury package. This car is the model of refinement. The interior is top notch with quality material throughout. Its one of the quietest cars Ive ever driven. You cannot hear wind noise or road noise. The car has no rattles and is silent at highway speeds. The car rides very smoothly, but still handles very well. While its no sports car, it handles better than most people would expect. With the 3.5 liter V6 you have more power than you could ever need. The car merges into trafic with ease, and passing on the freeway could not be easier. Even when you punch the engine, its silent and does not intrude into the cabin.

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  Bad Shifting - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ron Stoeckel - July 15 - 6:46 am

  Car sounds like diesel when it is cold.Transmission slips between 2nd & 3rd gears when cold on uphill.

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  All is good, but GPS sucks. - 2011 Lexus ES 350
  By igorv - July 14 - 1:09 am

  I love this car, this is my second, and will go with it again. One thing I truly despise, which even has been a source of embarrassment for me (in front of my girlfriend with Droid) is Lexus GPS. It is so unreliable, I just gave up on it entirely and now rely on Google Droid Navigation. Which raises a question of why I paid extra 5K or so for Navigation package. Huge, huge embarrassment for Lexus. And touch screen works worse than anything I have experienced ever. You will end up having to press and hold each key in alphabet to enter an address.

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  Dont buy an ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By gjfes350 - July 11 - 3:23 pm

  My first experience as a Lexus owner has been a nightmare. I have had one problem after another with the car (transmission replaced, non-functioning voice response, navigation system, Bluetooth, tire pressure sensors, etc.).

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  Clean - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By irishchad - July 11 - 11:30 am

  This is the best value on the road! I love the air-conditioned seats and the keyless entry is a great feature. Just push a button to start it. It handles great, the suspension is above average, but Lexus could make it a little softer. There is plenty of room in the back seat and trunk. It looks like the impressive luxury car it is and you cannot beat the price. If you ask any mechanic what is the best low maintenance car is they will tell you I never see a Lexus in my shop. I highly recommend this car.

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  Great car but - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By CarMan - July 4 - 3:36 pm

  I love the car and especially the electronic key system. However, I would likely not purchase another Lexus unless two things are changed. First, to lock the doors, you simply push the button on the door, which is easy to forget if youre in a hurry. The doors need to lock automatically after 30 sec-2 min., determined by the customer. Its far too easy to leave the car unlocked. Second problem is the very inadequate GPS. I have a $200 Garmin GPS for use in rental cars when I travel. It speaks street names for turns and gives traffic info (features found in various brands for years). The Lexus GPS has neither of these or other advanced features. Lexus needs to fix these problems.