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 Highway Car - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By masonbarge - November 15 - 5:23 am

  We wanted a reliable, quiet luxury car at an affordable price, and thats exactly what we got. For the price, the degree of luxury and smooth, quiet ride really makes road trips a pleasure, and theres lots and lots of space for passengers and cargo. The big positive surprise is the gas mileage! We are now averaging 31 MPG on the highway, and about 23 mpg overall. No doubt this is improved by 1 or 2 mpg simply because of the excellent variety of displays, which make you aware of the mpg you are getting. The trade-off is disappointing handling. There is plenty of pickup and stopping power for us, but the steering and lateral feel are average at best, and visibility is average minus.

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  Like flying a magic carpet - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By magic carpet - November 9 - 3:30 pm

  Have had many vehicles over the years. Never knew that driving could be this enjoyable. Mine is Ultra Premium with 4500 miles. Levinson sound is great. Call it my magic carpet. Black with tan interior sends a chill up my back every time I enter it. Doors close like luxury coach. Could use more aggressive exterior styling. Wish it was AWD but without the floor lump as on GS model. Hope the suspension feels this good in years to come. Slight delay in acceleration when punching gas pedal takes getting used to. But at 55 Im in it for comfort not racing.

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  This car is all over the place.... - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By joem59 - October 26 - 2:33 pm

  Bought the car in 06. Needless to say Im very disappointed. The car has a nice looking exterior, great stereo and terrific gas miles (26 plus). That is where it ends. Since the first month I noticed paint chipping and scratches. I thought is was bad road luck. Then more started appearing along with blotching. I barely drive the car and never on dirt roads. Its garage kept. I have a Hyundai with 100k that gets driven every day and no front chips or scratches. The seats are very uncomfortable and feel like your sitting in a hole. I have always had rattles in dash and under carriage and door seat position buttons have always had problems and now dont work. Plus poor int lite + button design.

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  Love those Toyotas/Lexus - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Fred - October 21 - 7:23 am

  Before buying this Lexus, I previously owned two Toyotas. So far, my Lexus lives up to the same reliability. Power, looks, features, you cant go wrong. I love the navigation and audio. Acceleration is smooth and it rides quiet. This car is roomy in the front and back. I test drove the Acrua TL and the Volvo S60, but neither was as exciting as my ES350. The fall back is that some of the amenities look and feel cheap especially the trunk handles. You only get two keys. Even though I have park assist, I still find it difficult looking over my shoulder backing up and I also find the seating uncomfortable after driving long periods of time. I would buy this car again.

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  Just purchased 2010 ES350 - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By James - October 18 - 12:30 am

  My wife and I have owned several Lexus vehicles over the years, but this is our first ES. Having owned an IS F, I was going to give our ES a lower number when it came to "Fun to Drive". Then I thought it all depends on how you define fun. The F is much quicker, but you really feel the road and realistically, forget about having any adults in the back seat for long drives. The ES, although not as fast, is so much quieter, smoother and comfortable to drive. Does this mean were getting old :)

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  very nice car - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By JerseyJoe - September 14 - 6:02 pm

  great ride, quite, comfortable, very reliable. 65,000 no problems at all

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  Great highway mileage - 2012 Lexus ES 350
  By cuongn - September 12 - 9:02 am

  Last weekend my 2012 ES 350 actually exceeded the advertised MPH (19 city, 28 hwy). I drove from New Orleans back to Houston, setting cruise at 70mph. After arriving at Houston I calculated the miles-per-gallon and 33 MPG is what I got out of my car !

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  ES 350 - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By John - September 9 - 5:16 pm

  My car is an 11/06 build w/o Nav. This car is very smooth and comfortable, a solid and quality build. It takes a second or two for the car to accelerate after I mash down on the pedal, but after I learned the cars quirks I have found it to be responsive. I havent experienced any of the transmission issues of earlier models; however, I have discovered a definitive wind noise which emanates on the driverÂ’s side window between the A-pillar and the middle of the door. I have taken the car back to the dealership to investigate the problem but so far no luck in solving it. I am afraid that this is a design/engineering issue rather than a build issue. Great exterior styling and interior design.

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  Lexus 350 - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Wes - August 24 - 2:04 am

  All around great luxury car

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  Not a drivers car - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By arnie - August 23 - 5:50 am

  Great fit and finish, quality materials, outstanding fuel economy; the only down side is the car has lousy cornering capability; I may go Infiniti next time.