Why is the ES sedan one of Lexus’ longest-running and most popular models? That’s easy to answer. A smooth and quiet ride, extensive list of luxury features, and strong resale value continue to make it a compelling choice for families in search of an entry-level luxury sedan. Dating back to 1990, when the Lexus brand first appeared, the ES has generally seemed a bit more distinctive than most near-luxury four-doors.
What's New for 2017
Not much has changed on the ES 350, apart from new standard safety features. Formerly optional, the Lexus Safety System+ is now standard, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, dynamic radar cruise control, and “intelligent” high-beam headlights. A “Back” button has been added to the Remote Touch Interface controller, and Lexus Display Audio has added a Scout GPS link.
Choosing Your Lexus ES 350
Because it only comes in one trim level, choosing your ES 350 is an easy process. The only serious decision comes down to selecting which—if any—packages and options appeal the most.
Each ES 350 contains a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. That combination earns an EPA fuel-economy estimate of 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway (24 mpg combined). Performance is reasonably brisk, accelerating to 60 mph in just over 7 seconds.
The interior features an eight-speaker sound system with CD player, USB/iPod/Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio—all controlled by a 7-inch display. Other features include pushbutton start, power front seats, automatic climate control, a rearview camera, SmartAccess, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a moonroof. Pricing starts at $39,875 (destination included).
- A step up to the Premium Package costs $730 and adds a driver’s memory, remote keyless entry, perforated NuLuxe seat upholstery, genuine wood accents, and a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel.
- Adding $1,670 gets you the Luxury Package, which starts with everything in the Premium Package and adds an embossed-pattern perforated leather-trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wood-trimmed console.
- The Ultra Luxury Package commands an additional $3,500. It includes everything from the Premium and Luxury Packages, as well as a power rear sunshade, manual rear-door sunshades, programmable personalized memory settings for both driver and passenger seats, a driver’s seat with power-extended cushion, panoramic roof, and ambient interior lighting.
You can also choose from a pair of technology-oriented packages:
- Add the Navigation Package to any of the other packages for an additional $1,470. Navigation includes a high-resolution color LCD display with a suite of compatible Lexus Enform apps, voice-activated navigation, and a Remote Touch navigation controller.
- An upgraded Navigation Package, available for $2,590, includes a 15-speaker, 5.1-channel, 835-watt Mark Levinson audio system.
The base ES 350 comes quite well equipped, especially with the addition of active-safety features as standard equipment. In addition to the option groups, a dozen features are available as standalone additions, including blind-spot monitoring. This makes it possible to add the features you want or need, yet remain well under the $50,000 mark. For a luxury sedan with strong resale value, that qualifies as a comparative bargain.