Highlight: The ES350 is now available as the 300h, a fuel-efficient hybrid.
Test
vehicle’s MSRP:
$44,202 (Base Model starts at $37,350)
Seating Capacity: 5
Standard Safety
Features: airbags (dual front, dual front knees, rear seated
mounted and side-curtain); vehicle stability control; traction control; ABS;
electronic brake distribution; a tire pressure monitoring system; a first aid
kit; daytime running lamps; and Lexus’ Safety Connect System (similar to GM’s
OnStar System without the concierge system)
Standard
Equipment: 17-inch wheels; a
push-button keyless starter system; leather seats; power front seats; auto
dimming rearview mirror; a power sunroof; driving mode selections (economy,
normal and sport); and carpeted floormats
Standard
Grand Touring Audio: an 8-speaker AM/FM/XM
audio with a 6-disc CD changer
Bumper-to-Bumper
Warranty: 4
years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles
Bluetooth
Compatibility: Yes
Standard
Engine/Horsepower:
3.5-liter, 6-cylinder/268-hp
Recommended Fuel: Regular
Standard
Fuel Mileage:
21-city/31-hwy
Trim Levels:
ES300h (a
hybrid model)
What’s
New: The sixth-generation
Lexus ES was reworked in 2013. So, besides the addition of LED fog lights, available
pseudo leather seats and Siri now being compatible
with some of the Apple iPhones, there are no other changes.
Pros: For years, the Lexus ES
has been a staple for the brand and served as the original standard in
the industry for the competitors in developing an entry-level luxury sedan.
With that being the case,
for the 2014 model year, the roomy ES350 is available as a gasoline and a hybrid model. The modestly
styled front-wheel drive ES350 offers the perfect balance of harmonizing the
ride and handling experience, while
appropriately equipping the vehicle -- making this a competitive entry-level
luxury sedan.
In the vehicle we
reviewed, our ES350 was accessorized with such driver aids as a blind spot
monitor with a rear cross-traffic alert system, a navigation system, a back up
camera and an intuitive park assist system. And while our vehicle lacked a forward collision alert system
and a radar-activated cruise control system, they are both available add ons.
Furthermore, to enhance the
overall luxury experience of owing a Lexus, our ES350 was equipped with such
options as a Bamboo-and-leather trimmed shift knob (and heated steering wheel),
a power rear sunshade, a power (opening and closing) trunk, leather seats,
heated (and ventilated) front seats, and a memory setting for the driver which
controlled the power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, the driver’s seat and
the exterior mirrors.
Moreover, the ES350
offers an intuitive mouse pad-like system which controls the audio and
navigation system (if so equipped).
Furthermore, the ES350
can be accessorized with 18-inch wheels, a powerful 15-speaker audio system and
an oversized panoramic roof to add to the entire ownership experience.
Cons: Over the years the Lexus ES350 has been the original standard for entry-level
luxury. However, there are many models in the midsize and large car segment
that rivals the vehicle in their offerings. A number of vehicles have begun to
out Lexus, Lexus so to speak. While a number of automakers have pushed to make
a back up camera standard, this must-have feature continues to remain an option on the ES350. A
number of automakers are also offering rear heated seats, too.
Ironically, the ES350 offers three driving
modes: economy, normal and sport. Being that the ES350 is in no sense of the
manner is considered to be a sports car, for the life of us, a sports mode
seemed out of character for this vehicle. So, for those seeking a sportier ride
and handling experience in the Lexus line they could either step into the IS or
GS models.
The
Verdict: Initially, when the Lexus ES was launched, it was considered to be an upscale
Toyota Camry. Well, six generations later, it’s obvious that these vehicles are
night and day. The quiet-tuned ride, the luxury interior appointments and the
longer warranty truly distinguishes itself from the Camry. Being that this is
one of three Lexus sedans still being driven by a front-wheel drive configuration,
consumers have the option of selecting a gasoline or a hybrid model at a
competitive price point. Even with so many models for consumers to select from, still today the Lexus ES350 continues to serve as the original standard of what an entry-level luxury car is capable of being.
Competition: 2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan, Buick LaCrosse, Infiniti Q50, Lincoln MKZ and Mercedes C Class
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