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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  Transmission, brakes, tires and rattles - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By mike - May 6 - 7:56 pm

  I have had transmission problems from the beginning and at every 5000 mile check I have complained to the dealer. No help from them. Brakes are bad and two separate rattles have developed, one in the dash and one when the moon roof is open. The brakes are bad at 23,000 miles as are the tires which I am told need replacing.

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  Road warrior - 2015 Lexus ES 350
  By Mr T - May 5 - 4:12 am

  MPG while on the road was surprising. We got well over the 30 MPG it is said to get. This vehicle is listed as a 2017 when in fact it is a 2015,

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  Too early to tell - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By raviola4 - March 31 - 1:46 pm

  I purchased a certified 2007 ES350 in Oct. 09. So far so good. Got 33 mpg on only trip. Low 20s in local driving. One gripe is having to keep 36 psi in tires. On smooth surfaces fine, but do notice every glitch in road surfaces. Dealer says they put at least 36-37 in to avoid low tire pressure light coming on. Why? Door indicates should be at 30 psi. Being certified a lot of things were fixed, new tires, brakes etc. before purchase. Im also concerned about the massive recall of ES350s along with other Toyota models for sudden acceleration problems. Many unrelated to the floor mat problem that has received most of the press. Visibility as many have noted is not great.

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  New ES 350 - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By lbaird - March 25 - 10:43 am

  I previously owned a 1998 ES300 and logged 154000 miles without a major problem. The amazing thing is that the purchase price of the 2009 was about the same with more equipment standard. If this car is nearly as good as my old Lexus, I will be more than satisfied. I have only driven it about 2000 miles but I am very impressed with the power, quality and economy of this car.

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  All I Can Say is WOW - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Emlee - March 11 - 5:50 pm

  Having had 2 Lexus automobiles previously (both ES 300s, one a 2000 and the other a 2003) THIS 2007 KNOCKED MY SOCKS OFF. The styling, the comfort, the ease of driving, the fun of driving are not enough superlatives to describe this car. I have the ultra luxury package which was more pricey, but the additional cost was well worth it. The air, the upholstery, the back up camera, the rotating headlights,the nav system and the sound system are incredible. This car is everything I expected and then some. BRAVO LEXUS.

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  Redesigned 2016 Lexus ES 350 Luxury Package - 2016 Lexus ES 350
  By Lee - March 6 - 4:04 am

  This is my 6th Lexus. Previously owned GS, 3 Rx models over the years and currently have an IS 250 that my wife drives. I was in the market for a new car and seriously considered other luxury models including the new C300 Mercedes, BMW 5 series, Cadillac CTS even toyed with the idea of the Porche Macan. I thought after many years of Lexus maybe I wanted a fresh change. After viewing, researching, and pricing the different models with options and overall editor and customer reviews Lexus was still #1 in reliability and value. I had driven the 2015 ES 350 when my RX was in for service and was impressed with the comfort and handling. When the 2016 came out I truly loved the redesign with the new front end and rear end. I test drove it with the 18" wheels and was very impressed. Quick, smooth, quiet, comfortable, and a truly upscale luxury interior. Before I made my decision I decided to wait and test drive the new 2016 RX when it hit the market. For me the 2016 ES 350 just handled beautifully and I am extremely happy with my purchase. I have the luxury package which includes the new leather seat design with double stitching, 18" wheels, and the one touch power trunk. This is a wonderful luxury car and a great value.

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  Fun to drive - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By AT - February 27 - 5:03 pm

  Very nice car. I will buy another one. The ride is extremely smooth and the gas mileage was surprisingly better than advertised for highway driving. It took me a while to get used to the push button start, I have caught myself a few times just leaving the engine running while trying to exit the vehicle, the engine is that quiet. The memory seat and steering wheel settings dont set, every time I get in the car after my wife drives I have to move the seat back before I get in. Roofline should be higher, I often have to adjust my seat to avoid touching the interior ceiling.

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  Great expectations - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By shubert - February 18 - 9:51 pm

  just bought the car. Great deal. Great technology. Expecting great performance over the coming years. Three time Lexus owner.

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  First year lemon - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By phillipson - February 13 - 7:20 am

  I love my car but hate its electrical system. I have had a number of defects with this cars electronics and of course they have all occurred after the warrantee has ended. Lexus charges $150 just to diagnosis the problem. On one occasion the issue was a loose wire which feed all of the sounds the care made. sure enough plug it in and my car was fixed but i was down the diagnostic charge. Recently my car had the air bag light go on. I received an estimate for $8700. A bit hi since my car is worth 11K at this point. My local mechanic fixed the issue for $500.

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  My first luxury car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Hudsucker - February 12 - 3:50 am

  I was looking for a quiet car with Sirius Satellite that would make my many long days of driving less painful. After checking Acura and Infiniti I went with the ES, and I am very happy with my choice. The ride is quiet, the engine powerful, and I am getting 27 MPG. Cant beat that.