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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  Wonderful choice - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By wonderful choice - March 28 - 10:40 pm

  After test driving Accord, Camry, and Acura I choose ES 350 based on the reliability of owning a 2000 ES 300 for 8 years and I read 200 owner reviews. I did not appreciate the heated/vented seats until I drove to LA and to Reno. I was very impressed with the 32 mpg, instant acceleration, smoothness and attention to details. I just love, love driving my second Lexus.

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  Awesome Ride! - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By Gabe - March 17 - 11:00 am

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  Small nitpicks in a near-perfect car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By channing - February 15 - 2:40 am

  Bought it over the Lunar New Year, got everything except Ultra Luxury package. Drives like it should. Have yet to take twisties but the car should be able to hold its own despite not being a sports sedan. Otherwise, wonderfully smooth and quiet--and fast! A few chinks in its armor of perfection: despite the stylish profile, the roofline is low as a result. I am just under 61" and I cannot sport an explosively spiky hairstyle in this car (I love contradictions). The glove compartment is unlit, which can be an annoyance at night.

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  Looking for more in a Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Diane Bennett - February 5 - 5:30 pm

  First Lexus. Great exterior look with sun and moon roof. Poor exterior paint quality and interior quality not what I expected for a Lexus. Tires did not last as expected. Overall, few problems just a little disappointing. Nav of little use- maps not up to date and system not user friendly.

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  ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Stan - February 2 - 8:33 am

  A smooth, comfortable ride, without sacrificing too much in the way of handling. Coming from a BMW convertible, I miss the sharp cornering, but I love the smooth quiet ride. Much better on the freeway. The premium stereo is all anyone needs. Plays mp3 disks, so with 6 disks, you can load about 1000 songs at one time. Nav system works like a charm.

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  Happy - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By markle - January 9 - 1:10 am

  Very happy overall, but just a couple (minor) strange things about the car. 1.) The center console latch arrangement is a loser. I routinely open the compartment by accident. 2.) The garage door opener is not lighted - after a month still difficult to locate at night. Also difficult to navigate the 4 switches for trunk, shade, gas, in the dark. 3.) I also, very occasionally, feel unexpected acceleration. Fit and finish are great. Unlike other reviewers, I like the look of the car. Dont feel it is stodgy at all. Very smooth riding and quiet, which along with reliability were the main reasons for my purchase. Love the back up camera and parking assist.

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  Outstanding Performance & Value - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Jon SF - January 6 - 1:03 am

  This car is everything you can ask of a comfortable luxury sedan: quiet, roomy, fast (0-60 in 6.8 sec), safe (12 airbags, traction control, stability control), comfortable w/luxury touches all over (smart key, real walnut wood trims, air cooled seats). All of this at a cost in the mid $30s with the gas mileage ratings unmatched by anything in its class. It is also the most reliable manufacturer as rated by Consumer Report Magazine. My wife and I had this car for over a month and we are very happy with it - it provided everything we expected and more.

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  Buy one - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Herc - December 20 - 4:20 am

  The ES 350 is again designed to be a smaller LS package. Most features found on the LS line are also available or already on the new ES. Ride is excellent, looks great. Could do without keyless issues but getting used to that.

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  Unhappy with 2016 Lexus es350 Rides like a truck - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By Mona Frame - December 3 - 7:53 am

  If you have owned a 2011 or 2005 Lexus do not expect the same comfort inside or on the road. The seats are hard, road noise inside is bad and I am very dissatisfied with its over all ride and comfort, and road noise. Mine rides just a tad above my husbands 2015 Dodge truck. I dont know what happened to the quality but I am very unhappy with my new 2016 Lexus es350. I did not test drive it and that was a big mistake. However, I did not test drive my 2011 or 2005 and I am m not sure a simple test drive would have been enough to tell me how uncomfortable this 2016 was going to be. I trusted since I was buying a high end car like the lexus it would be of a quality I had known before. I am looking for a 2012 or earlier used lexus and will sell this one. I just hate that Lexus has fallen into the cheap car routine. Why not have leather seats?? I dont want a sports car I want a car that is comfortable. Very displeased with this new car would not recommend unless a person wants an sports rcar.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By remiller - November 20 - 5:53 pm

  Safe, reliable, comfortable and fun to drive. The small turning circle is a great unheralded surprise. I have had absolutely no problems with this car.