Lexus ES 350 Review

2008 Lexus ES 350 4dr Sedan Shown

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.

Of course, Lexus is also offering plenty more upscale amenities and high-tech features to outfit the ES 350, and adding one or more of the large option packages will 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

Introduced for the 2007 model year, the 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 272 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission sends it all to the front wheels. Getting to 60 mph takes about 7 seconds, making this the quickest ES sedan ever.

Standard equipment on the Lexus ES 350 is about what you'd expect in an entry-level luxury sedan, as a moonroof, keyless start, power front seats, a telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, an in-dash CD changer and lovely wood trim are all included. You also get stability control and an assortment of airbags.

Although cloth upholstery is standard as well, your chances of finding a cloth ES 350 on a dealer lot are slim. Most will have the optional leather, typically in combination with other package options such as a Mark Levinson surround-sound stereo, a navigation system, adaptive HID headlights, adaptive cruise control, heated/cooled seats and a panoramic sunroof that provides an additional fixed skylight over the backseat.

In our reviews of the Lexus ES 350, our editors found this entry-luxury sedan pleasant to drive, considering its non-sporting demeanor. Notably, it's one of the quietest cars we've ever tested. Inside, the quality of the materials and the overall level of opulence bears comparison to the company's LS flagship. For buyers seeking a true luxury sedan experience, the ES 350 won't disappoint.

Past Lexus ES 350 Models

The ES 350 is too new to have much of a presence on the used car market, but consumers will find plenty of representatives from the previous generation of the ES. From 2004-'06, it was known as the ES 330, while 2002 and '03 models were sold under the ES 300 name. Although not as fast as the Lexus ES 350, both are fine choices for a used entry-level luxury sedan, thanks to their capable performance, serene cruising demeanor and high-quality cabin treatments. Reliability is typically well above average.

SELECT A SPECIFIC LEXUS ES 350 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.