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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  Excellent luxury car for the value - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By cg - August 12 - 10:16 pm

  This car is sporty yet luxurious. I am very happy with it. It is much nicer than my mercedes c230 and smoother. Acceleration is very good, though not as sporty as other sports cars in its prie range. Road noise was a little louder than I expected.

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  Falls short - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By bggiseries - August 12 - 7:44 pm

  This would be my second ES350. I liked the 07 version better but this one does have many things I like. This one is pretty much loaded. The blind spot / cross traffic alert is great but a lot of vehicles have that now. I like streaming the music from my smartphone. Acceleration is very good but sometimes sluggish from the start. The window design is ridiculous. They slope into the car a fair amount so when it rains, water will drip on your arm, leg and seat when you open the door. There is no wow factor in this car. There is just way to much wind and road noise. Most all road imperfections are felt. I will not buy another one.

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  Best Car in the Market at the Best Price - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Mohammed - August 9 - 2:43 am

  Love this car to death. It is an unbelievable improvement by Lexus. Love the features. No problems with the navigation and blue tooth features. It is very easy to operate that is why they say read the manual.

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  My new Car - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By Linda - July 10 - 8:50 pm

  The seat sits a little low for me...I am short and have low profile tires. I could use a skinny pillow to raise me up higher for better visability. Very comfortable though.

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  Best crossover/SUV with decent mileage - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By SA - July 2 - 7:26 am

  Great all around. I was very surprised to get 28 mpg on highway although in city it hovers around 18-19 mpg. Smooth, quiet and great ride.

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  Great Car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Bill - June 29 - 6:30 am

  Had an 04 Acura RL. Considered the 07 RL and liked it. Also considered the Lexus GS-350 but found it cramped. The salesman talked me into looking at the ES. It was love at first test drive. This car had all the features except AWD as the RL or the GS 350 and was $8000 cheaper. The car is quieter than my old RL and I think the ride quality is better. It has more room than th RL or GS 350. This car is absolutely fablous on the highway cruising at 75 MPH. The audio system is great. All in all a great car for the money.

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  My first lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By eugene fishman - June 22 - 1:16 pm

  I have driven this car for only a few days now, having driven a BMW for several years previously. The Lexus is not only more comfortable and quiet but seems more powerful and handles as well. My gas mileage is actually better than listed. The best car Ive ever driven.`

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  Great automobile - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Joe Robinson - June 10 - 4:00 pm

  The car has really impressed me. It has a smooth ride. It feels like you are riding on air. Very comfortable. Interior finishes are of great quality. Engine acceleration is smooth and quick. Tons of Standard features. Plenty of rear seat space for my 59" Daughter.

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  An excellent buy! Voice functions need improvement - 2011 Lexus ES 350
  By paddyz - May 26 - 11:48 am

  I bought my 2011 ES 350 a month ago at $6k below MSRP. I am happy with this car. It has a very smooth and quiet ride, lots of comfort features and is definitely a good value for the money.

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  Great Car - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By MJP58 - May 19 - 9:43 pm

  Great mileage- ave 22.9, standard stereo is excellent, very quiet ride, traded in 2005 ES 330 Lexus and the 2009 is ten times the car- excellent quality- worth every penny!!!!