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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  The best value of any entry luxuary car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Steve in CT - June 13 - 12:26 pm

  Owned for 1 month. I researched every so called entry luxury sedan out there. None of them had the smooth and quiet ride that I have experienced with the 2007 ES 350 Lexus. Before you purchase an entry luxury car do yourself a favor and sit in the back seats of the Infiniti and Acura. No comparison for comort. Only sedan that can comfortable fit 5 adults. Try that with the competition. When driving over 60 miles per hour in each car, You will notice some noise in every auto except the Lexus. Much smoother, cushier ride then the Infiniti and Acura. Fuel economy. Im getting 23-24 mph in city. All hwy. was 28-29 mph. Using mid grade gas.

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  Need more work - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Frank - May 17 - 5:16 am

  Engine and wind noise greater than my ES 300. The ride is much harsher and appears to be a true sports suspension. Not what I was looking for.

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  Okay car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By JW - May 11 - 5:50 pm

  Pretty car. Great for long trips. Loud clicking in the engine until it warms. Taken to dealer several times and they report that it the noise is normal. However, loaner cars do not make that noise. Car has several rattling noises and is poorly insulated from road noise. Poor thigh support. Poor rear vision. Love the keyless entry. Love the large trunk.

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  Fine Car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By brad - May 6 - 1:16 am

  After 8 years with my volvo S-80 it was time for change. I looked at the new S80 and the Toyota Avalon. The S80 was much like my 2000 and too much money considering the questionable quality of my old car. The Avalon was a good driving car but seemed a bit boxy. Driving the ES 350 was the clincher. Fun, quiet, responsive and comfortable. The Lexus trunk is a better shape than either of the others and the opening much larger.

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  Absolutely Awesome - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By heather - May 2 - 5:23 pm

  I have owned 2 other Lexuses and never bought new but I saw this car about 3 wks prior to knowing I was going to need a new car and I just about fell over! The body style blew me away! After looking at the pre-owned, this car won hands down with all of the changes and upgrades that have been made and worth every extra dollar! They are pkg. the car different then the brochure and give you great features std. and in the upgraded. I upgraded plus nav... all of it a must. (Didnt do the Mark Levinson system - the std. sys. seems is great!) The power is excellent and the interior is very comfortable and quiet. An outstanding car for "entry level" luxury.

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  Great all around vehicle - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Mark - May 2 - 9:56 am

  Roomy, smooth, peppy, quiet, greatly improved styling - everything you could ask for except high performance. This car grows on me each time I drive it. Ive been surprised by the many compliments Ive received on the looks of the car. The exterior lines combined with dual exhausts finally make the ES a more masculine vehicle. Surprising amount of technology for the price. This car is a great overall value. Lexus finally got the ES right.

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  An Honest Reliable Review of Lexus ES350, $44,592 - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By donisland - April 23 - 7:43 am

  I have had two Lexus cars before and was very happy with them. DESIGN-The new design is Very Nice inside and outside. NAVIGATION-I especially like that large navigation screen - it is so much better than the previous ones that were smaller. RIDE-The ride is much more stiff. I think they were right to do this, it makes driving the car much more safe than the "cushy" ride that can be dangerous in emergency situations. POWER-Its good, but for this new car and more powerful engine would have been very nice. GAS MILEAGE-I am getting 22 mpg overall because I push the gas peddle down a lot.

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  the new ES 350 : how can the best be better ? - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By mitchellrowe - April 17 - 5:09 am

  Review: The ES 350 IS BETTER than all the previous ES cars since the 1st one rolled off the line in Japan in 1991 , as a 1992 . It is 4 " longer ( back seat leg room ) gorgeous style that is now common to the GS and LS ( family resemblence ) front and back anti sway bars , with self adjustable shocks and struts . RUNS STRAIGH DOWN THE ROAD LIKE AN ARROW FROM THE BOW .. EVEN ON TILTED NJ ROADS . very powerful and 21 to 30 mpg on regular 87 octane . madnificant perforated leather , hot seats , climate control copied from the LS , electric steering , drive by wire , zf auto tranny , huge trunk , 1st class aluminum wheels.

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  Dream Car Comes True - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Dream car comes true - April 12 - 5:03 am

  Love my ES 350 2007, very smooth ride, perfect handling and comfortable.

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  Premium plus package - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Scott S. - April 8 - 6:13 am

  Love this car. Have only put 2000 miles on it so far but I really love this car. I am a very big guy (wide not tall). I was tempted to buy a used LS to get the size, but have found that the ES 350 accomodates me very nicely. I did not want the panoramic roof, dont find it very practical since I drive alone most of the time. I sat in many vehicles with and without Mark Levinson sound system and could not hear a difference between the premium and ML systems at all using XM radio, iPod, CD classical music, jazz etc. I read over and over the ML radio is fantastic but I must say the premium w/nav etc. is a pleasure to listen to for about $2000 less.