Lexus ES 350

The redesigned 2019 ES kicked off the model’s seventh generation on an all-new platform that was slightly larger than its predecessor. Exterior styling was a tad sleeker and more dynamic, highlighted by a new rendition of Lexus’ polarizing spindle grille design. The ES 350’s 3.5-liter V-6 was carried over from the previous-generation version, but its output was bumped up to 302 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous six-speed automatic. An F Sport trim was available for the first time, adding an adaptive suspension, throatier exhaust note, sport front seats and sporty trim touches. Inside was an updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration (but no Android Auto). A 2022 refresh brought updated exterior styling and the welcome addition of a touchscreen infotainment system to replace Lexus’ frustrating Remote Touch infotainment interface.

The redesigned 2013 ES featured a more aggressive, sporty exterior design with Lexus’ signature spindle grille and slimmer, more angular headlights. It grew slightly larger than the previous model, now riding on the longer platform of the Toyota Avalon rather than the Toyota Camry. The ES 350 was powered by a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6. It was joined by the ES 300h, the ES’s first hybrid variant, which paired a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a combined 200 hp. For 2015, the ES received a mid-cycle refresh with updates to the grille, lighting, wheels and interior. Structural and noise insulation improvements were also made. During this generation, the ES 350 evolved from a strictly comfort-focused sedan to one that balanced smooth-riding luxury and driving dynamics.

For 2007, Lexus redesigned its mid-size ES sedan on a slightly larger platform and also gave it a slightly larger, more powerful engine, which prompted a name change. The previous-generation ES 330 and its 3.3-liter V-6 were replaced by the ES 350, which had a 272-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6. The exterior styling of the new ES had a bolder look, with a larger grille and slimmer headlights; the overall shape maintained the familiar Lexus ES silhouette, but the body panels had more sculpted lines and a more dynamic appearance. Lexus carried over the spacious and comfortable interior layout, but enhanced it with upgraded trim and an available navigation system. A 2010 update brought freshened exterior styling and other revisions.