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 Car--But Now Have Mysterious Sound System Issue - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By ROBERT GOYETTE - June 28 - 1:27 pm

  Great car, smooth quiet ride, best car I have owned. Recently was in accident where I backed out of my driveway too quickly and backed into an immovable utility truck parked on street. Very foolish, my fault. Rear bumper and passenger side fender crunched. Private, very reliable body shop did work, beautiful outcome. Now Sound system is on sometimes, off sometimes. Excellent sound system. Understand amplifier is underneath drivers seat on this model year. Am driving myself and body shop crazy as sometimes sound is OK, then it is not OK. Moved the seat around to different positions, no effect. Sound system was OK this a.m., went to worked, parked, and when returned in p.m., sound system did not work. Stopped at pharmacy on way home, picked up an item, returned and sound system now works again. Anyone have any ideas on this?

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  Satisfied Customer - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By W.Scott - December 18 - 10:03 pm

  Ive had my ES 350 since 08/06. I picked the Ultra package with every available option, including the radar crash protection. It was worth the extra expense. The higher end leather is the plushest. The custom wheels add an extra dazzle. The ride is firm and compliant - not the best on corners. I couldnt be happier. My only complaints are: 1) I wanted the Sirius option and as of now my dealer says that it isnt available, but likely will be in the near future. 2) The touch button controls on the nav. system/phone system are mostly dimmed out (unworkable) when the car is in motion. Very annoying and inconvenient. 3) The bluetooth phone system has a tunnel sound.

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  Nicest car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Matt - November 24 - 7:16 am

  Car is quiet, powerful and luxurious. I am actually getting about 35 mpg on the highway. I look forward to the drive home finally.

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  After 5 BMW5 series-Why I changed - 2013 Lexus ES 350
  By gp5tee - November 19 - 5:46 pm

  After owning five BMW 5 Series over a period of 25 years I finally made the move. I test drove the new 2013 BMW528X and it was wonderful. Quite an upgrade from my 2009 528e I was offering in trade. Then I visited a Lexus dealer and test drove an 2013 ES350. It was love at first drive. The steering wheel was beautiful. The overall feel matched the BMW. Performance felt easily as good also. The appearance is truly special. The BMW was the same old, same old ,although a little improvement . I guess I just needed a change. The fit and finish inside and out is perfect. The clincher was that it was $14,000 less, net of trade. I have always found my BMWs depreciated too much over 5 years.

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  Very satisfied after 10 months - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Bob Jones - November 10 - 3:00 am

  I have been very satisfied with the Lexus ES 350 I have been driving for the last 10 months. I live in the coastal plain of North Carolina and drive 90% of the time on flatland. If I drove in an area with hills or mountains I dont think I would be as satisfied with the ES 350 driving experience because the transmission seems to get "confused" in hilly terrain. But, I have been very satisfied overall with the ES 350.

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  Very Impressed - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Ray - November 8 - 10:23 am

  I have only had the vehicle for a month and a half, but I am extremely impressed with the performance. The car has a smooth ride and many usable features. I can now drive in comfort, stlye and class. There have been many compliments too!

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  As expected from Lexus - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By KDUB - November 3 - 1:13 am

  This is my third Lexus and I have come to expect the best. The ES 350 did not let me down. More than a little peppy, yet I am getting more than 23 mpg city. All the creature comforts one could want and a pleasure to drive.

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  Well-Rounded Comfort, Performance & Value - 2014 Lexus ES 350
  By Dino - October 31 - 4:27 pm

  Traded my 2014 Camry SE for the 2014 ES 350 Base & couldnt be happier. Overall excellent purchase including price (value for $ spent) & dealer experience. Have been eyeing this model for some time & was very familiar with the platform via my Camry, which I also was very happy with (SE model only; didnt like other trim levels.) The seat comfort & adjustability is excellent while lumbar support is better than the Camrys. At 6 ft, 1 in, have no problems with ingress & egress. I have the base model car with dark grey / light grey colors. I love it. The NuLuxe (read: vinyl) material is perfect for me as I go to gym daily & play tennis 3-4 days per week & meticulously care for my vehicles; one less maintenance item to contend with servicing the leather several times each year as I do for my wifes Murano. Have HID headlights but no Nav or B/U camera. No worries for me as I have never had those in any car. Use my TomTom & iPhone for Nav. Paid $21k for 1-owner, no accident vehicle from Mercedes dealer in Pampano Beach, FL with 10k miles of warranty remaining. Like the push-button diagnostics that includes air pressure volume per tire to help maintain proper wear & safety. Can hardly purchase any super-nice vehicle at that price that even nears the luxury, comfort, reliability & performance of this car. As stated above, excellent experience with vehicle & dealer. Have only pressed the gas pedal hard twice & WOW this thing really accelerates but is smooth & quiet at the same time. Purchased a Lexus SUV for my daughter last year & that is how I caught the Lexus bug. At 52, cannot imagine owning anything else.

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  Good and Bad - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By ES 350 - October 20 - 5:40 am

  Very smooth transmission. Great, quiet ride. Great radio and sound. I expected more than cardboard on door panels. Flimsy glove compartment door, trunk lid. Not enough front seat thigh support. Navigation system a colossal disappointment. It is practically useless outside major metro areas. Pretty picture, though. No way to open trunk if power lost. Fold down rear seatbacks with full access to trunk would be great. Front end too low, scrapes most curbs. Fatter tires would give even smoother ride. Roof line too low for tall people. Does not come with body side moldings, door sides are naked to damage. Support has been minimal from Lexus headquarters and dealership.

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  Excellent Quality & Value - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Bill in DFW - October 16 - 4:30 am

  I traded a three month old Mercedes E320 CDI for this this Lexus ES 350 Ultra and couldnt be happier. The MB was a technical dinosour compared to the Lexus. For less money I got better quality, more comfort and luxury appointments, and vastly superior tech options. The Lexus nav system makes the MB system look like it was stolen out of a Yugo, and the voice command and bluetooth features found in the Lexus werent even available in my MB. Ive got a very bad back that makes it difficult to sit in a car seat for long periods, but Ive driven this car 5 to 6 hours in pure comfort. Most of all I appreciate the after the sale service rather than being totally ignored as I was by MB.