I will say, be prepared for your back seat passengers to to fall asleep on you in this car. The ride is just that smooth, and interior that comfortable and spacious. I've had my ES for a little over a month, it's such a refined car.
Got a 2022 ES 350 Ultra Luxury with 15k miles for 10k$ less than MSRP. Absolutely incredible. Test drove a Volvo S90, and it cabin noise sounded like a Corolla compared to the Lexus. Customer for life. Currently looking for a 2005 LS 430.
Great review. I will say that I listened to the stock sound system and the Mark Levinson and went with an UL simply for the sound system. It's incredible.
Excellent review, as usual!!! IMO, the ES is way overdue for the redesign. I plan to purchase one, or the hybrid, once completely updated. Can't beat the reliability and appreciate the V6 taking regular fuel instead of premium, as mentioned.
@@tonysterbenc Not sure what you are referring to as both ways??? Never said the "completely updated/redesign," when it arrives, has to have a V6. I simply mentioned the current reviewed model (in the video) V6 takes regular unleaded instead of the more expensive type. It is common knowledge engines are being downsized/hybrid, many with turbo, to meet emissions and mpg goals. This is expected for future new models, including the ES.
@@aonforme3349 What I meant is no mystery. When you listed pluses of the ES, you singled out traits -- unbeatable reliability, regular fuel -- that are specific to the V6. The "overdue redesign" will take those away.
@@tonysterbenc Hummm. Perspective is everything. Keep in mind we are talking about Toyota reliability, regardless of "overdue redesign." The points I mentioned are what keep this company highly rated (all Toyota vehicles). I also mentioned I would purchase the hybrid model, once redesigned. This hybrid obviously, if built, will NOT be a V6 so unsure how you zoned in on a single point to pull out. I do appreciate your feedback though.
I recently received delivery of a 2023 ultra luxury in the V6 powertrain, I will be honest and say that I'm not a huge fan of the 8-speed automatic and rough downshifting and gear hunting on slower speeds and crawling a parking lot when you come to a stop sign. The powertrain delivers very smooth power when driving however this car is not fast and it is not meant to be fast. If I could go back, I probably would have got the hybrid so I could enjoy the rock solid reliability of an ECvt transmission and not have to worry about the eight speed eventually dying although in a lexus I don't think that's going to be anytime soon. If you have the opportunity to get the Mark Levinson sound system I highly recommend this it's a game changer.
OTOH, with the V6/8-speed you won't have to worry about the hybrid battery going belly-up in 10 or 15 years down the line either. Everything has tradeoffs.
You provide a very thorough review. I own an ES350 (second one and a previous NX). I will never own another vehicle besides a Lexus. They are the BEST for ride, comfort and reliability! Thanks for the review. Ready for a new one.
Just bought a certified 2020 ES 350 Base with Blind Spot monitor add on with 29000 miles. Paid 35500 for it. Am sharing because these are great bargains on used market. THink about this, you can get used Lexus es350 with fairly low miles cheaper than you can a brand new Accord or Honda CRV. THere are used car deals to be found if you think outside the box and stay away from SUV’s and Toyota or Honda. Lots of really good cars on the market for decent prices if you think outside the box. With Lexus you are also getting great mechanical reliability for a decade.
I hate the idea of a FWD V6, but at least the car runs on regular gas. I'm upset that all of the G80's, now require Premium gas, because of their Turbos.
@@Bnizzofashizzofront wheel is better in cold weather I mean it beats RWD that’s for sure but ES 250 hybrid does come with an E-AWD same as Prius where the rear is driven with a rear electric motor which is good for 40HP
I am thinking of buying a Lexus ES , but here in France there is only the hybrid ES 300 available ... What surprises me is that the trim levels offered here are a bit different... As I have seen so far, there is one "Executive" trim level available that here is the most expensive ( above the Super-luxury one)and that basically "has it all" as standard.. Another difference I found that for the ES 350 in some countries there is also a panoramic roof available, while for the hybrid ES300 there is only a smaller sunrooof and the panoramic one is not even available as optional. For the traction subject, I saw a review from a mechanic , that generally praises the ES , and said that in typical Lexus style they often mix high end modern features (such as the awesome safety systems) with well-tested long-time available other mecanical components like engines that are already being used and proven reliable from older Toyota models, etc....like this V6 engine already available for quite a few years on Toyota engines.... For the traction , they took the 4X4 system already made and tested from Toyota models, the only problem being that this V6 engine was simply too big to fit together with that transmission ... So they had to choose, for performance and power amateurs that were all about power, they offered the ES 350 featuring the V6 but no 4X4 possible, AND for those that absolutely wanted 4X4 traction as a must, they did offer the ES 250 model but only a smaller 4 cylinders engines could fit inside That was because when this car was being conceived, the high demand for 4X4 was not as much as a thing overall and therefore the high demand was not anticipated .. Then, when it became a thing, it would have cost too much to develop a brand new transmission for this car only ( that is not sold in too high numbers unlike other Toyota and Lexus models , and would not have justiffied the high cost of making it available--- therefore they had and prefferef to choose an already tested and most reliable transmission, therefore they used the one from Toyota Rav4 ... That just was too big to fit inside this car together the bigger V6 engine)
It's a shame that Lexus hampered this machine in some or other fashion. Only American ES gets NA V6, rest of the planet only Hybrid on the UL trim. US version has basic rear seats while EU, Australia, Asia get super nice Executive Rear with adjustment plus climate control. Then the whole lack of AWD system. Toyota got rid of GS 350 because of low sales as ES was selling a lot, ES killed the GS which was a superior platform with RWD and it even had a damn GS F with NA V8. Now they do not want to spend any more money on the TNGA platform which ES 350 uses so no Limited Slip / AWD or such, they are charging a ton for the car but the wood is very less even in UL trims. Sad really. But that's how Automotive Industry is. Genesis has top looking interior BUT the QC is poor as I saw a lot of complaints on the Genesis forums. Acura TLX has horrible Infotainment, plus the rear has no space vs ES and it is more expensive for the SH-AWD plus it does not have the NA V6 but rather a Turbo. Then you have the SUV market where the price for a fully specced ES 350 UL at $60K for which you can get a lot of SUVs with much better interior and AWD systems. It's all about compromises unfortunately.
@@lostalx here in France the full spec top trim ES is around 78000 euros... So about 80.000$ ... It is a very good car , I think its quality alone is worth if money.... But who can afford that... Those who do, will buy BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE or Porsche instead... Because that is what they want to show off with.... So.... Only taxi companies buy them as fleet cars, having big price deductions... Sad but true
@@cristiancristi9384 You can always import e350 from usa, with all vat paid, and shipping to EU countries, would be around 48-52k euro, if you pay around 38000 euro in usa. Its just shipping like 1000 something euros to europe, and vat of 20% or so.
Some car burglars break the small rear door window and pull the seat forward to see if there’s anything worth stealing in the trunk, so I actually prefer it like this. Great review!
Me too! I have a 21 grey on black luxury model. I got mine in early January 21 so I’m due for an upgrade too… you can usually get a new one if there’s 6 months left on your lease. By the end of the year the 2023 models will be cheaper. No need for a 24 since it’s the same.
You aren't the only one who's asked, and for that matter, when you can get heated rear seats in everything from RAV4 to Hyundai Sonata. My guess is they were trying to hold down the ES's price to its historical range of $40k base and $55k loaded, both to keep it accessible and to keep it from bumping up against the LS, and some equipment offered in other countries didn't make the cut here.
@@starman2337 No, not really a special order. Told me I was on the top of the list for whenever one came in. Might have to settle on Caviar color..wanted Cloudburst Gray
The ES350 cannot have AWD because of the engine placement and transmission. There is no room for it. You could have it if it was designed as a RWD car, with part time AWD. Why does it only have single piston front calipers???? You need it with all that weight in front.
Thumbs down for trying to find “Sportiness” in a Lexus ES 350. Lexus should do an AWD version with the V6 so that the car can be pushed hard? Seriously? You think those who buy Lexus ES 350 are buying it to race at the NASCAR? You also said F-Sport edition has better ride. What makes you say so? A harsher ride is not necessarily a better ride - specially for a Lexus. People buy Lexus ES 350 for comfort, prestige, luxury, and reliability. Nobody buys a Lexus to drive like a maniac on the road.
"Tight fit in front for legroom" is a frankly surprising comment. I'm 6'2" and haven't had the slightest problem, and I'm a guy who feels the console encroaches on my front legroom in a variety of vehicles including the Camry.
Tight fit? Not sure if this is a serious comment or not. Unlike one is built like an elephant this car is more than enough. It’s not the designers’ fault Americans keep getting fatter and fatter to the point they don’t resemble other humans on the planet any longer lol
@@tonysterbenc Legroom is one thing the ES doesn't lack.. i'm 6'3 and the seat can go far enough that my feet dont touch the pedals, and someone can still sit behindme
Automatically goes on when the lights are on. But honestly, it's so dim as to be nearly invisible even at night. AliExpress sells kits with brighter lights that use the original wiring, but there is minor disassembly involved.
Revisiting your question, I've since discovered that the ambient lighting dims and brightens with the dash brightness (adjusted by 2 dash buttons to the left of the steering column). If it's not bright enough, the ambient lighting doesn't come on at all.
Can someone please explain what the paddle shift does? I accidentally pressed it while on D and immediately the car slowed. Got scared. I thought they are active only in S mode
2023 Camry V6 XLE MSRP is $35,820 vs $42,490 of this ES350. How much extra gadgets ES350 has over Camry? Camry has 40/60 rear seat fold down, ES350 has fixed rear seat, probably for quieter cabin.
Mainly refinement at slower build rate, 70% more body welds for solid and lower NVH, better paint and interior materials, better dealer support and experience, longer warranty etc
The Camry XLE and XSE have real leather interiors.. Many Lexus vehicles use the softex . A few other advantages as well. The Camry is more nimble and less cumbersome as well. I don't know why this always has to come up in a comparison trying to cut one down in comparison to another.. Sometimes less is more..
@@oceanhedonist265 I can't stand the mousepad Lexus uses for their infotainment Center... Big turn-off.. They are eliminating it now on the new models.
What year is your Avalon? Both cars were completely overhauled for 2019 with Toyota's first new mainstream-sedan chassis in 25 years, which produces a slightly firmer ride but vastly superior handling (and crash safety, and body tightness, and weight savings for superior MPG).
@@tangotea7192 Okay, but what year is your Avalon? If you were comparing a pre-'19 Avalon with this car, it's apples and oranges. The new chassis's handling and crash safety run rings around the old one.
@@luptonpittman6520 Lupton, I just found out why this is. It goes brighter or dimmer with the dash lighting. If it's below about half brightness, the ambient lights stay off entirely.
Adaptive handling gives you a stiff harsh ride and isn’t worth the additional money. This is a luxury mid size and not intended to throw it around in corners. If you want performance, buy a German product and spend a ton on repairs.
Thank you so much for this review. I’m in the market for a new car, and I was considering a new 2023 Lexus F sport handling 350. I was gonna factory order it with the triple beam lights and ML system. I don’t care about the seats folding, I don’t need that. My minor issue is that it doesn’t offer ambient lighting on the f sport handling which is a bummer. My major issue is that it’s FWD. i don’t speed nor do I go drag racing, I just need a comfortable reliable luxury sedan that I don’t have to worry about. And I live in the chaotic city of New york do u think FWD will be an issue for regular everyday driving? Or will it not be as bad?
@@kevindafilm7268 I drive my dads beat up Hyundai that has 85 horsepower, and when I drive my sisters Civic with 170 HP I notice how smooth it is and I like it. I can’t do the hybrid cuz it’s a V4, I def still want a NA v6 engine with 300 HP. For 50k price point I don’t want a V4 honestly. My issue is how is the FWD for you? Is it ok?
@@Karma-hy6ki I drove a 2012 bmw 328i with around 330 ish horse power and it was also fwd. Honestly with lexus you don't need to worry anything with fwd its a overall pretty solid driving experience. Unless it snows a lot of the condition of the place you're in is bad fwd isn't bad.
I wouldn't go with the fsport. It's a waste on the 350. The ML isn't great. The only real benefit is the triple beam, but not a necessity. I have a 22 es350 and 22 is350f. I like the stereo in the es350 better plus you get memory seats and ambient lighting. I live in Rhode Island and the es350 is fine in the snow. I don't race around either, but the v6 is fun to drive, power when u need it.
@@marcnotarianni1889 you got the ultra luxury to have ambient lighting? Cuz the f sport handling doesn’t have ambient lighting. I don’t like the grill on the non F sport models tho if I’m being honest. I really started liking the F sport grill
Yes, it does. It's a stripe along the wood trim on the right side of the dash and all four doors. It's just so faint you can hardly see it, even in darkness. Honestly, I don't know why they bothered.
It's so cheap though, the base model here costs 66 thousand, the Luxury model 20k more, less than halfway to 90k. Not even used models from 2 years ago can get that low (50k). Even the base model Camry doesn't get as cheap as the base model ES.
F Sport is a downgrade. DO not get it, the suspension ruins the ride quality. Handling is no match for an IS 350, and you lose Semi Aniline Leather. The only positive with F Sport is the Gauge cluster from that LFA design and the Pedals getting metal finish, perhaps spindle grille is better on that. Shame that Lexus does not want to add the damn AWD Limited Slip. This NA V6 really deserves it as a homage for once. Really sad that Lexus dropped ball on that, also the loss of wood on the 2023 vs 2022, the cup holder had a nice wood panel now it's gone. Also 2025 ES may get a full revision and they will get rid of the NA V6 power for a Turbo and the interior may be hit or miss.
My mom bought this car about 9 months ago. It's an incredibly boring car that she isn't completely happy with but it's a workhorse and does what it was intended to do. She's 73 and will probably take it to the grave. edit: check with me in 5 years to see if she passed it down to my son who will be a freshman in college by then. she says that's her plan
F handling ruins this car, it becomes stiffer, harsher ride, while still the car itself nowhere near dynamic driving as bmw etc, therefore dont ruin lexus, dont buy f sport handling. You buy lexus for smooth stuff, etc. It will never be a sports car. For that buy 911 or something as fun secondary car. You simply cant have reliability, smoothness and sportiness in one car. The closest to that is 911 on the true sportiness side. For smooth, luxury, reliability is lexus.
Because when I used to not do them people would comment, why no exhaust clip, thumbs down. 😆 It's true tho. All that information trying to help people out and there will always be someone in a bad mood to dislike the video for the silliest reasons. 😏
Maybe a mistake, but it's the same mistake they've been making for 30 years. In their view, the ES's family sedan bones need the extra rigidity of the added brace to behave luxuriously.
Really not much of a concern. All reports and my personal experience indicate the Kentucky assembly quality on the exclusively Lexus line is excellent.
Great car let down by its rather weird styling elements. Even the much cheaper mazda 6 is a much better looking car. Oh Why cant lexus toyota hire some classy designers?
I wouldn't say "even." To my eyes the Mazda 6 was the most beautiful car in its class. It's one reason it was the first car I test drove, ahead of the Lexus, before I concluded the Lexus really was worthy of the price difference. And you'll note the Mazda's sleek proportions were achieved at the expense of deficient interior room, a problem the ES doesn't have.
You are 100% incorrect. I don't love the grille, but they keep it precisely because they say it surveys well. Also, they ARE buying it. It outsold the cheaper Avalon, and is the only surviving car in a class that used to include XTS, MKS, MKZ, and Maxima.
Just over 6 seconds to 60. But that's a bit misleading, because that time reflects that it loses about a half-second getting traction off the line and makes it up with a vengeance on the highway.
300hp and FWD is fine as long as you drive like a normal person. You’re not supposed to punch the gas from a stop. I’ve accelerated from a stop a thousand times in my ES. Never spun the tires once.
I've driven one as a loaner a few times & it's barely nicer than a Camry. I'd much rather buy a Camry. However, I own a 2016 GS350 F-Sport & it feels MUCH more special than the ES. Sure, it's more expensive in certain ways but it shows with nicer interior materials, it's RWD & puts the power down MUCH better & has MUCH better handling & steering feel. Lexus really should've kept the GS instead, but the ES had always been the far better seller unfortunately.
@@c3piano. Exactly. I've had many camrys since 1993, an avalon in 16 and now a 22 es350. No comparison. Close to my avalon limited but the avalon being close in price didn't have the full luxury feel
I will say, be prepared for your back seat passengers to to fall asleep on you in this car. The ride is just that smooth, and interior that comfortable and spacious. I've had my ES for a little over a month, it's such a refined car.
Is it the standard model?
@@F93xo Lux model.
do tires spin on you when youre merging onto a lane quickly from a stop sign?
@@kane5445 Yes it does. But overall it's such a comfortable drive.
@@albundy5346 that’s horrible news
Got a 2022 ES 350 Ultra Luxury with 15k miles for 10k$ less than MSRP. Absolutely incredible. Test drove a Volvo S90, and it cabin noise sounded like a Corolla compared to the Lexus. Customer for life. Currently looking for a 2005 LS 430.
So, you're saying you bought it used?
@@tonysterbencno he bought the car brand new with 15 thousand miles from the dealership
Great review. I will say that I listened to the stock sound system and the Mark Levinson and went with an UL simply for the sound system. It's incredible.
Rather have the looks of the F sport but I prefer the sound system and extra soundproofing of the UL
Beautiful automobile - inside and out. Just outstanding.
Excellent review, as usual!!! IMO, the ES is way overdue for the redesign. I plan to purchase one, or the hybrid, once completely updated. Can't beat the reliability and appreciate the V6 taking regular fuel instead of premium, as mentioned.
I fear the non turbo V6 may be gone after this year.
You can't have it both ways. The "completely updated" one won't have the V6 anymore.
@@tonysterbenc Not sure what you are referring to as both ways??? Never said the "completely updated/redesign," when it arrives, has to have a V6. I simply mentioned the current reviewed model (in the video) V6 takes regular unleaded instead of the more expensive type. It is common knowledge engines are being downsized/hybrid, many with turbo, to meet emissions and mpg goals. This is expected for future new models, including the ES.
@@aonforme3349 What I meant is no mystery. When you listed pluses of the ES, you singled out traits -- unbeatable reliability, regular fuel -- that are specific to the V6. The "overdue redesign" will take those away.
@@tonysterbenc Hummm. Perspective is everything. Keep in mind we are talking about Toyota reliability, regardless of "overdue redesign." The points I mentioned are what keep this company highly rated (all Toyota vehicles). I also mentioned I would purchase the hybrid model, once redesigned. This hybrid obviously, if built, will NOT be a V6 so unsure how you zoned in on a single point to pull out. I do appreciate your feedback though.
So smooth, so quiet, so quick. One of the best engines in the world.
For people who are wondering what brand are the 10 speaker's? They are "Pioneer" audio.
I recently received delivery of a 2023 ultra luxury in the V6 powertrain, I will be honest and say that I'm not a huge fan of the 8-speed automatic and rough downshifting and gear hunting on slower speeds and crawling a parking lot when you come to a stop sign. The powertrain delivers very smooth power when driving however this car is not fast and it is not meant to be fast. If I could go back, I probably would have got the hybrid so I could enjoy the rock solid reliability of an ECvt transmission and not have to worry about the eight speed eventually dying although in a lexus I don't think that's going to be anytime soon. If you have the opportunity to get the Mark Levinson sound system I highly recommend this it's a game changer.
OTOH, with the V6/8-speed you won't have to worry about the hybrid battery going belly-up in 10 or 15 years down the line either. Everything has tradeoffs.
@@tonysterbenc thanks
Great review! Beautiful car. This will be my replacement ride for my current 07 Avalon when it decides to retire.
You provide a very thorough review. I own an ES350 (second one and a previous NX). I will never own another vehicle besides a Lexus. They are the BEST for ride, comfort and reliability! Thanks for the review. Ready for a new one.
I love lexus grille
Just bought a certified 2020 ES 350 Base with Blind Spot monitor add on with 29000 miles. Paid 35500 for it. Am sharing because these are great bargains on used market. THink about this, you can get used Lexus es350 with fairly low miles cheaper than you can a brand new Accord or Honda CRV. THere are used car deals to be found if you think outside the box and stay away from SUV’s and Toyota or Honda. Lots of really good cars on the market for decent prices if you think outside the box. With Lexus you are also getting great mechanical reliability for a decade.
I just bought one for 29,000.00 with 21,200 miles on it , 2021
I hate the idea of a FWD V6, but at least the car runs on regular gas. I'm upset that all of the G80's, now require Premium gas, because of their Turbos.
The ONLY knock against the car as i live where it snows like crazy
@@Bnizzofashizzofront wheel is better in cold weather I mean it beats RWD that’s for sure but ES 250 hybrid does come with an E-AWD same as Prius where the rear is driven with a rear electric motor which is good for 40HP
I am thinking of buying a Lexus ES , but here in France there is only the hybrid ES 300 available ... What surprises me is that the trim levels offered here are a bit different... As I have seen so far, there is one "Executive" trim level available that here is the most expensive ( above the Super-luxury one)and that basically "has it all" as standard..
Another difference I found that for the ES 350 in some countries there is also a panoramic roof available, while for the hybrid ES300 there is only a smaller sunrooof and the panoramic one is not even available as optional.
For the traction subject, I saw a review from a mechanic , that generally praises the ES , and said that in typical Lexus style they often mix high end modern features (such as the awesome safety systems) with well-tested long-time available other mecanical components like engines that are already being used and proven reliable from older Toyota models, etc....like this V6 engine already available for quite a few years on Toyota engines.... For the traction , they took the 4X4 system already made and tested from Toyota models, the only problem being that this V6 engine was simply too big to fit together with that transmission ... So they had to choose, for performance and power amateurs that were all about power, they offered the ES 350 featuring the V6 but no 4X4 possible, AND for those that absolutely wanted 4X4 traction as a must, they did offer the ES 250 model but only a smaller 4 cylinders engines could fit inside
That was because when this car was being conceived, the high demand for 4X4 was not as much as a thing overall and therefore the high demand was not anticipated .. Then, when it became a thing, it would have cost too much to develop a brand new transmission for this car only ( that is not sold in too high numbers unlike other Toyota and Lexus models , and would not have justiffied the high cost of making it available--- therefore they had and prefferef to choose an already tested and most reliable transmission, therefore they used the one from Toyota Rav4 ... That just was too big to fit inside this car together the bigger V6 engine)
It's a shame that Lexus hampered this machine in some or other fashion. Only American ES gets NA V6, rest of the planet only Hybrid on the UL trim. US version has basic rear seats while EU, Australia, Asia get super nice Executive Rear with adjustment plus climate control. Then the whole lack of AWD system. Toyota got rid of GS 350 because of low sales as ES was selling a lot, ES killed the GS which was a superior platform with RWD and it even had a damn GS F with NA V8. Now they do not want to spend any more money on the TNGA platform which ES 350 uses so no Limited Slip / AWD or such, they are charging a ton for the car but the wood is very less even in UL trims. Sad really. But that's how Automotive Industry is. Genesis has top looking interior BUT the QC is poor as I saw a lot of complaints on the Genesis forums. Acura TLX has horrible Infotainment, plus the rear has no space vs ES and it is more expensive for the SH-AWD plus it does not have the NA V6 but rather a Turbo. Then you have the SUV market where the price for a fully specced ES 350 UL at $60K for which you can get a lot of SUVs with much better interior and AWD systems. It's all about compromises unfortunately.
@@lostalx here in France the full spec top trim ES is around 78000 euros... So about 80.000$ ... It is a very good car , I think its quality alone is worth if money.... But who can afford that... Those who do, will buy BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE or Porsche instead... Because that is what they want to show off with.... So.... Only taxi companies buy them as fleet cars, having big price deductions... Sad but true
@@cristiancristi9384 You can always import e350 from usa, with all vat paid, and shipping to EU countries, would be around 48-52k euro, if you pay around 38000 euro in usa. Its just shipping like 1000 something euros to europe, and vat of 20% or so.
Thank god
Is still v6 in 2023
Lexus RX 2023 got a 4 cylinder
I don’t know how I feel about that
Some car burglars break the small rear door window and pull the seat forward to see if there’s anything worth stealing in the trunk, so I actually prefer it like this. Great review!
It’s my year to upgrade around Xmas.. i have the 2021 Es 250. I’m in love with this 350 😍
Me too! I have a 21 grey on black luxury model. I got mine in early January 21 so I’m due for an upgrade too… you can usually get a new one if there’s 6 months left on your lease. By the end of the year the 2023 models will be cheaper. No need for a 24 since it’s the same.
F-Sport was available starting in 2019. I bought one.
Love the Samurai sword door handles
Lifted directly from the Lexus LS and LC. Aluminum, not plastic, and you can really tell the difference.
no heated/ventilated rear seats, no idea why they didn't have that option when Avalons had heated rear seats for years now
You aren't the only one who's asked, and for that matter, when you can get heated rear seats in everything from RAV4 to Hyundai Sonata. My guess is they were trying to hold down the ES's price to its historical range of $40k base and $55k loaded, both to keep it accessible and to keep it from bumping up against the LS, and some equipment offered in other countries didn't make the cut here.
best car ever
Great review..thanks! But I’m waiting on an es300h ultra luxury to come in. What are your thoughts on that car?
Did they let you order that?
@@starman2337 No, not really a special order. Told me I was on the top of the list for whenever one came in. Might have to settle on Caviar color..wanted Cloudburst Gray
Great video, how is the steering wheel control? Is it heavy or light?
The ES350 cannot have AWD because of the engine placement and transmission. There is no room for it. You could have it if it was designed as a RWD car, with part time AWD.
Why does it only have single piston front calipers???? You need it with all that weight in front.
You can’t go wrong with Lexus or Toyota but man I wish it was UPDATED. Camry seems to be more updated than this
For 2023, the ES adopted Lexus/Toyota's most recent infotainment software suite, with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.
@@tonysterbenc thanks for the update
Thumbs down for trying to find “Sportiness” in a Lexus ES 350. Lexus should do an AWD version with the V6 so that the car can be pushed hard? Seriously? You think those who buy Lexus ES 350 are buying it to race at the NASCAR? You also said F-Sport edition has better ride. What makes you say so? A harsher ride is not necessarily a better ride - specially for a Lexus.
People buy Lexus ES 350 for comfort, prestige, luxury, and reliability. Nobody buys a Lexus to drive like a maniac on the road.
Lexus RCF and LC 500 are for sport
The v6 engine is too large for a transfer case for all wheel drive(awd)
@@bauhaus-gc1mm Robert Parker is correct, and the IS 350 AWD is on a completely different platform (and has an annoying lump in the floor).
@@bauhaus-gc1mm they do. ES250
@@luptonpittman6520 The ES 250 is AWD, but not the V6. It's a comparatively noisy and anemic Four.
Mine hit 0-60 in 6.5
Great review.
Thanks!
Good video keep up the good work
Appreciate it!
Nice car. I love so much.
I want one but I'll so miss the woodgrain in my earlier model , especially the steering wheel
If you choose the orangish Palomino interior color, you can still get it.
Smooth sedan
I like the grille. Interior didn't impress me. ... Still loved the 2023 Sonata.
"Tight fit in front for legroom" is a frankly surprising comment. I'm 6'2" and haven't had the slightest problem, and I'm a guy who feels the console encroaches on my front legroom in a variety of vehicles including the Camry.
Tight fit? Not sure if this is a serious comment or not. Unlike one is built like an elephant this car is more than enough. It’s not the designers’ fault Americans keep getting fatter and fatter to the point they don’t resemble other humans on the planet any longer lol
@@tonysterbenc Legroom is one thing the ES doesn't lack.. i'm 6'3 and the seat can go far enough that my feet dont touch the pedals, and someone can still sit behindme
Kia's and Hyundai's are junk.. always have been.. some people are easily fooled🤣
@@charlesjackson1700 fully agree
Is it possible to have V6....with AWD? Thanks
no, the v6 is to big to fit with the AWD components unfortunately. look at the is300 awd.
ES250 has a 4 cylinder, and AWD
300 hp, V6 naturally aspirated, 22-30 mpg, how is this different from 300 hp,v6, better mpg Toyota Camry? The same exact engines
Same engines, but different tuning. Otherwise, the whole car differs in various details that add up to a more luxurious experience.
Is the ambient lighting automatically turned on?
Automatically goes on when the lights are on. But honestly, it's so dim as to be nearly invisible even at night. AliExpress sells kits with brighter lights that use the original wiring, but there is minor disassembly involved.
Yes
Revisiting your question, I've since discovered that the ambient lighting dims and brightens with the dash brightness (adjusted by 2 dash buttons to the left of the steering column). If it's not bright enough, the ambient lighting doesn't come on at all.
Can someone please explain what the paddle shift does? I accidentally pressed it while on D and immediately the car slowed. Got scared. I thought they are active only in S mode
shifts the gears up and down, like a stick shift
Big fan of the Toyota 3.5L V-6, but no use for the rest of this...
The engine without the rest of the car would be useless. It would never pass inspection.
@@luptonpittman6520 Was thinking I would like it in a different vehicle. Still disappointed I missed out on a RAV4 with the V6 years ago.
@@digitaldoc100 yes. That was a sleeper!
2023 Camry V6 XLE MSRP is $35,820 vs $42,490 of this ES350. How much extra gadgets ES350 has over Camry? Camry has 40/60 rear seat fold down, ES350 has fixed rear seat, probably for quieter cabin.
Mainly refinement at slower build rate, 70% more body welds for solid and lower NVH, better paint and interior materials, better dealer support and experience, longer warranty etc
You will notice the difference when you drive both of them. The cost is justified.
The Camry XLE and XSE have real leather interiors.. Many Lexus vehicles use the softex . A few other advantages as well. The Camry is more nimble and less cumbersome as well.
I don't know why this always has to come up in a comparison trying to cut one down in comparison to another.. Sometimes less is more..
@@charlesjackson1700
The Lexus is a better all around car, period.
@@oceanhedonist265 I can't stand the mousepad Lexus uses for their infotainment Center... Big turn-off..
They are eliminating it now on the new models.
Good luck finding a Luxury or Ultra-Luxury trim level.
Sewell has them all day long in Dallas Texas
Is there a remote start?
yes you can start the engine by using the app...but the doors have to be locked
Little publicized, but you can also remote-start the car from a short distance using the key fob.
Free for 3 yrs
I've heard F Sport Handling is NOT a trim you want for this car. Makes the ride quality worse, not better.
Classy #Lexus
I test drove one today and was very disappointed. Not a smooth ride compared to my Avalon. Outside is nice. Inside was just ok but not awesome.
What year is your Avalon? Both cars were completely overhauled for 2019 with Toyota's first new mainstream-sedan chassis in 25 years, which produces a slightly firmer ride but vastly superior handling (and crash safety, and body tightness, and weight savings for superior MPG).
No lies. I had an Avalon and wanted to trade in but the Lexus was very basic. No thanks
@@tangotea7192 Okay, but what year is your Avalon? If you were comparing a pre-'19 Avalon with this car, it's apples and oranges. The new chassis's handling and crash safety run rings around the old one.
hello I just bought 2023 ES 350,on the sticker says ambient lightning, i don't see mine having that. I see rx has ambient lightning. does es 350 have?
It’s an option
It's silly dull, honestly. You'd have to be at midnight in the middle of the woods to see it.
@@tonysterbenc I clearly see mine even on well lit roads.
@@luptonpittman6520 Lupton, I just found out why this is. It goes brighter or dimmer with the dash lighting. If it's below about half brightness, the ambient lights stay off entirely.
Adaptive handling gives you a stiff harsh ride and isn’t worth the additional money. This is a luxury mid size and not intended to throw it around in corners. If you want performance, buy a German product and spend a ton on repairs.
Thank you so much for this review. I’m in the market for a new car, and I was considering a new 2023 Lexus F sport handling 350. I was gonna factory order it with the triple beam lights and ML system. I don’t care about the seats folding, I don’t need that. My minor issue is that it doesn’t offer ambient lighting on the f sport handling which is a bummer. My major issue is that it’s FWD. i don’t speed nor do I go drag racing, I just need a comfortable reliable luxury sedan that I don’t have to worry about. And I live in the chaotic city of New york do u think FWD will be an issue for regular everyday driving? Or will it not be as bad?
If you dont care about speed I would recommend the lexus es300h 2023. I recently got it and it has been a beauty averaging 45/47!
@@kevindafilm7268 I drive my dads beat up Hyundai that has 85 horsepower, and when I drive my sisters Civic with 170 HP I notice how smooth it is and I like it. I can’t do the hybrid cuz it’s a V4, I def still want a NA v6 engine with 300 HP. For 50k price point I don’t want a V4 honestly. My issue is how is the FWD for you? Is it ok?
@@Karma-hy6ki I drove a 2012 bmw 328i with around 330 ish horse power and it was also fwd. Honestly with lexus you don't need to worry anything with fwd its a overall pretty solid driving experience. Unless it snows a lot of the condition of the place you're in is bad fwd isn't bad.
I wouldn't go with the fsport. It's a waste on the 350. The ML isn't great. The only real benefit is the triple beam, but not a necessity. I have a 22 es350 and 22 is350f. I like the stereo in the es350 better plus you get memory seats and ambient lighting. I live in Rhode Island and the es350 is fine in the snow. I don't race around either, but the v6 is fun to drive, power when u need it.
@@marcnotarianni1889 you got the ultra luxury to have ambient lighting? Cuz the f sport handling doesn’t have ambient lighting. I don’t like the grill on the non F sport models tho if I’m being honest. I really started liking the F sport grill
The ES does not come with ambient lighting! I have a ES300 ULTRA.
Yes, it does. It's a stripe along the wood trim on the right side of the dash and all four doors. It's just so faint you can hardly see it, even in darkness. Honestly, I don't know why they bothered.
@@tonysterbenc when I think of ambient lighting I think of adjustable colors.
It's so cheap though, the base model here costs 66 thousand, the Luxury model 20k more, less than halfway to 90k.
Not even used models from 2 years ago can get that low (50k).
Even the base model Camry doesn't get as cheap as the base model ES.
You mean NOT so cheap?
@@storyofmylife7080 i'm sorry, you're right!
F Sport is a downgrade. DO not get it, the suspension ruins the ride quality. Handling is no match for an IS 350, and you lose Semi Aniline Leather. The only positive with F Sport is the Gauge cluster from that LFA design and the Pedals getting metal finish, perhaps spindle grille is better on that. Shame that Lexus does not want to add the damn AWD Limited Slip. This NA V6 really deserves it as a homage for once. Really sad that Lexus dropped ball on that, also the loss of wood on the 2023 vs 2022, the cup holder had a nice wood panel now it's gone. Also 2025 ES may get a full revision and they will get rid of the NA V6 power for a Turbo and the interior may be hit or miss.
My mom bought this car about 9 months ago. It's an incredibly boring car that she isn't completely happy with but it's a workhorse and does what it was intended to do. She's 73 and will probably take it to the grave.
edit: check with me in 5 years to see if she passed it down to my son who will be a freshman in college by then. she says that's her plan
You're a very morbid and ghoulish person. I'm sure you've set your eyes on all her things. Hope she lives for another 20.
That young man is going to be riding in style. And that car will still be running like new.
300hp but only a 6.6 second 0-60. My 175hp ford does that. Lexus always lets down in performance.
***FORD = Fix Or Repair Daily, I will rather stick with Lexus with all its quirks.
F handling ruins this car, it becomes stiffer, harsher ride, while still the car itself nowhere near dynamic driving as bmw etc, therefore dont ruin lexus, dont buy f sport handling. You buy lexus for smooth stuff, etc. It will never be a sports car. For that buy 911 or something as fun secondary car. You simply cant have reliability, smoothness and sportiness in one car. The closest to that is 911 on the true sportiness side. For smooth, luxury, reliability is lexus.
?
Ride quality is worse in the F Sport.
Why the exhaust clip, it’s a luxury vehicle , not a sports car, thumbs down.
Because when I used to not do them people would comment, why no exhaust clip, thumbs down. 😆 It's true tho. All that information trying to help people out and there will always be someone in a bad mood to dislike the video for the silliest reasons. 😏
Ok
Lost me at rear seats do not fold down.....mistake Lexus.
Maybe a mistake, but it's the same mistake they've been making for 30 years. In their view, the ES's family sedan bones need the extra rigidity of the added brace to behave luxuriously.
Next time, could you speak faster for those who are easily bored.
If it isn’t made in Japan then hopefully you don’t get one made on Monday or Friday lol good luck
Really not much of a concern. All reports and my personal experience indicate the Kentucky assembly quality on the exclusively Lexus line is excellent.
It’s a Lexus, not Chevy
Great car let down by its rather weird styling elements. Even the much cheaper mazda 6 is a much better looking car. Oh Why cant lexus toyota hire some classy designers?
I wouldn't say "even." To my eyes the Mazda 6 was the most beautiful car in its class. It's one reason it was the first car I test drove, ahead of the Lexus, before I concluded the Lexus really was worthy of the price difference. And you'll note the Mazda's sleek proportions were achieved at the expense of deficient interior room, a problem the ES doesn't have.
The front big grill is very ugly and most of the people surveyed do not like it, thats why they are not buying it
You are 100% incorrect. I don't love the grille, but they keep it precisely because they say it surveys well. Also, they ARE buying it. It outsold the cheaper Avalon, and is the only surviving car in a class that used to include XTS, MKS, MKZ, and Maxima.
That's how all Lexus grilles are
Its slow for a V6.
Slow?!?! 🤯 People are so spoiled with today’s family sedans. 20 years ago you were lucky if you had one quicker than 10 seconds to 60.
Just over 6 seconds to 60. But that's a bit misleading, because that time reflects that it loses about a half-second getting traction off the line and makes it up with a vengeance on the highway.
I hate lexus grille
Lexus use to be a good vehicle... but not anymore..i prefer a bmw or benz.
You have to get rid of those by 100k
@@luptonpittman6520 BMW & MB = endless money pits.
All are good vehicles. It depends on your priorities. Germany: Latest tech and style. Lexus: Durability for those who'd rather buy than lease.
Benz = poor reliability.
BMW = too much $$$
Why is Toyota autistic running 300hp to a FWD system? It should be either RWD or AWD as you mentioned. FFS! This should be rectified immediately.
The platform doesn't physically have room for both AWD and the V6. You can say it should, but it doesn't.
300hp and FWD is fine as long as you drive like a normal person. You’re not supposed to punch the gas from a stop. I’ve accelerated from a stop a thousand times in my ES. Never spun the tires once.
@@luptonpittman6520 I can't say what Lupton said. 😄
It’s the same as the Camry
Yeah, right.
No it isn't. It's the same platform of the avalon they just stopped making
People who say this haven't driven both to compare. It's sour grapes complaining. Camrys are good, but the Lexus is nicer.
I've driven one as a loaner a few times & it's barely nicer than a Camry. I'd much rather buy a Camry. However, I own a 2016 GS350 F-Sport & it feels MUCH more special than the ES. Sure, it's more expensive in certain ways but it shows with nicer interior materials, it's RWD & puts the power down MUCH better & has MUCH better handling & steering feel. Lexus really should've kept the GS instead, but the ES had always been the far better seller unfortunately.
@@c3piano. Exactly. I've had many camrys since 1993, an avalon in 16 and now a 22 es350. No comparison. Close to my avalon limited but the avalon being close in price didn't have the full luxury feel
Time for redesign now.
Almost. For decades, the ES has been redesigned every 5-6 years, and this model started as a 2019.
2025