Lexus ES 350 Review

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 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 rear-drive IS series.

The Lexus ES 350 is the latest version of the company's long-running ES series. Like its predecessors, it's roomy, quiet and assembled with care. Yet the ES 350 offers a bit more in the way of performance than earlier ES sedans, thanks to its powerful V6 engine. Likewise, its ride and handling dynamics come even closer to the luxury sedan ideal, as the ES 350's ride quality is as forgiving as it is composed. It's still not an engaging car to drive, but we suspect that most prospective ES buyers aren't looking for that anyway.

Lexus also offers plenty of standard and optional upscale amenities for the ES 350, but adding a few of the option packages can quickly drive the price tag to the $40K mark. That's no small sum to swallow, given how many other qualified sedans occupy this price range. However, for consumers seeking the utmost in refinement and relaxation in their next commuter car, the Lexus ES 350 is certain to have just as much appeal as every ES sedan before it.

Current Lexus ES 350
The current Lexus ES 350 shares its basic architecture and major mechanicals with the Toyota Camry. Exterior panels and interior furnishings are unique, though, and the Lexus sedan gets a bit more power out of its standard 3.5-liter V6, which is rated for 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission sends it all to the front wheels. Getting to 60 mph takes about 7 seconds

Standard equipment on the Lexus ES 350 is about what you'd expect in an entry-level luxury sedan, as 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 are all included. Popular options include 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 of the Lexus ES 350, our editors have found this entry-luxury sedan pleasant to drive. The V6 engine is 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, the quality of the materials and the overall level of opulence is impressive for this class of car. For buyers seeking a true luxury sedan experience, the ES 350 won't disappoint.

Used Lexus ES 350 Models
Introduced for 2007, the present-generation Lexus ES 350 essentially hasn't changed much, making low-mileage, well-kept examples top used car choices.

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.