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.

See also:

Interior Design
The IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available ...

2010 Lexus GX 460 review
During my test of the 2010 Lexus GX 460, I was routinely asked what I was driving. The only way I could get the questioners to grasp how the GX 460 stands out in Lexus' lineup was to tell them it ...

Rear window wiper and washer
The wiper operation is selected by moving the lever as follows: 1. Off. 2. Intermittent window wiper operation. 3. Normal window wiper operation. 4. Washer/wiper dual operation. 5. Washer/wi ...