The Lexus ES 350 is the brand's latest addition to its popular mid-size sedan line. After about a week of test driving we can see why the company sells a million of these a year.
The 2013 model got a huge makeover. In fact it's probably the biggest change since 2007. The new ES 350 has got a sleek, sporty look while still maintaining the sophistication of a Lexus. It lacks the grandiosity of the LFA or the LX lux-UV but it is still a very attractive car.
The new look also gives the ES 350 a little more space. On paper, the redesign offers a few more inches of car and interior room, but it's definitely noticeable when you're sitting in the backseat where you get an extra four inches of legroom. Make the right decision in design options - leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Mark Levinson sound system - and you've got a vehicle that looks as great as it performs.
Under the hood is a 3.5-liter V-6 that churns out 268 horsepower. The engine is largely unchanged from last year's model but we did notice the newly added active-control engine mounts that reduce engine vibration. Accelerating was very smooth, and the torque steer and traction control worked like a charm.
The ES 350 offers three driving modes: normal, eco and sport. Sport mode is very cool with a quicker throttle response and increased steering effort for a better sensation of control.
The ES 350 comes equipped with a variety of technological bells and whistles that seem to come in every sedan of its category. It's all controlled by a joystick-like remote control that is cool, fun and very easy to handle.
The aggressive look will likely appeal to young professionals but there's no mistaking that the Lexus ES 350 is a remarkable luxury sedan.
What we really like:
- Luxurious interior
- The joystick to control the menu is great
- There are lots of techno-bells and whistles
- Switching to sports mode is cool
- Sleek body