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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  ES 350! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Foster - February 17 - 3:26 pm

  This car is very smooth and quiet and has nice power. The styling is smooth inside and out, very rakish looking from the rear. I have not put a lot of miles on it yet, but I am impressed by it. It has pretty well met my expectations, its a Lexus all the way.

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  Best Value in a Luxury Car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Starbowl - February 13 - 2:33 pm

  Overall, the best car I have ever owned. Attention to detail is second to none.

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  Wonderful car...minus audio experience. - 2009 Lexus ES 350
  By Dr. K - January 29 - 4:20 am

  Great car for the money and cradles you when you sit. I drive 70 miles a day and the drive to and from work is the best part of my day. Got 8000 miles on it already and I try not to fall asleep every day on the way home in the comfortable seats. Dealership service is second to none.

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  Very Satisfied....Great Car - 2010 Lexus ES 350
  By Bill - January 20 - 7:23 pm

  This is our first Lexus. Very impressed with the ride (very comfortable). If you are looking for a plush ride, this car is probably the best in its class (especially for the $). Looked at the CTS, MKZ, G37...which were all nice, however, was sold on the smooth ride and space (we have two kids...plenty of space for the 4 of us). 3.5L at 280+ HP is more than enough power without sacrificing gas mileage. Love the 2010 changes too (rims, chrome rocker trim, side mirror directionals).Classy car in and out. The Navigation is worth the extra $. Much more convenient with the voice activated commands and Blue Tooth (phone). Best Leather interior we have seen (very soft and plush).Love driving this car!

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  Too firm, too hard, UGH! - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By patcic - January 19 - 7:43 am

  When I took this model for a test drive, all of the roads around the dealership were smooth asphalt and of course, the car road fine - big mistake. I negotiated a great deal on a close out, brand new 2014. I quickly became very disappointed with the comfort and ride of this car. You would think a Lexus would be the pinnacle of comfort but not this car. They did a model change in 2013 and made the car "sporty". Now you feel every bump & crack and hear a lot of tire noise on the highway. I feel fatigued after driving it. If you want a taught, sporty car where you "feel" the road then this might be the car for you. I switched to 2015 Impala 1LZ and am in heaven! What comfort!

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  Happy owner - 2017 Lexus ES 350
  By Dennis Jones - January 17 - 9:34 pm

  Love the car. Its our 2nd Lexus (1st was 2004 ES 330 had absolutely no problems with car). It may not be exciting to drive or sporty but you cant beat it for comfort and reliability. I love all the options available like the glass top, blind spot warning, auto cruise control, etc.

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  Awesome vehicle - 2008 Lexus ES 350
  By Geep1on1 - January 12 - 12:00 am

  This of course is a rollover year for ES 350. I didnt really notice the new mirrors, but I did notice the improved interior lighting. Anyone that compares this car to a Camry needs to drive them both head to head. From the moment you get in the ES 350, you know that you are in a luxury car. I have owned 5 series BMW, Infiniti Q45 and I enjoy driving this car more. I have read that people are complaining of throttle lag and indeed when I drove my friends 2007 ES 350 I noticed some lag. He used regular gasoline in his vehicle. With premium fuel I do not notice any lag. Mine is an 08, but I suspect the issue is type of fuel.

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  ES350 Paint Issue - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By zaff6 - January 10 - 5:06 pm

  Have an 2007 ES350 that has a paint chipping and rust issue on the hood of the vehicle. Originally from Florida and now in New York. One winter and the hood has large paint chips and rust. The rest of the vehicle is fine. The dealer and Lexus tried to repair with bottled touch up paint but it raised the paint around the damaged area making it look worse. Lexus closed the book on this and said we are on our own to repair. Very disappointed with the attempt to repair. Paint and rust warranty is basically none.

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  Satisfied! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Treasa - January 10 - 2:06 am

  I am absolutely satisfied with this car. First of all, it is a great looking car - definitely a head turner. It is sporty with soft touches. The chrome wheels and door handles really works well together. The fit inside is impressive also. The keyless entry and startup is amazing. The GPS system with the backup camera and tilt down mirrors are great features when the car is in reverse. I personally like the lighting inside of the car - the recess lights are really cool. The automatic rain sensor wipers works exceptionally well. The ride and handling is a wonderful experience. I want to say "umm" each time I drive it.

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  Very nice! - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Alvaro - January 7 - 3:06 am

  This is quite possibly the best car in its class. We looked at the Mercedes E350 and the BMW 325i and the Lexus just blew them away. This feels a lot more luxurious and roomy than those other sedans, and its got great power. The updated navigation system is very and clean crisp to look at, not to mention that its a touch-screen system, so its a lot more intuitive to work with. The stereo controls are all nicely laid out on the steering wheel, just like they were on my old Mercedes E320, so thats a big plus. It comes with all the luxury features youd expect from higher end cars, like auto lights, auto windshield wipers, cooled and heated seats, compass, cd changer, rear camera, memory seats, bluetooth, etc. And its so roomy in the back seat and trunk! This car rocks!