review and photos by James Hunter
December 13, 2006

The 2007 ES 350 may not be the flashiest or most technologically advanced vehicle in the Lexus line-up, but the original ES (along with its larger LS cousin) was the car that introduced masses of North Americans to Japanese luxury, and the fifth generation is even more refined. Based on Toyota’s popular Camry platform, the ES takes performance and luxury to a whole new level.

Inside, the ES is exactly what you’d expect. The smooth, clean design of the dash, with premium materials is accented with real wood and brushed steel. The instrument panel is a perfect example of minimalist design, but is packed with enough goodies to ensure an optimal comfort level and keep the tech-savvy driver pleasantly preoccupied. The exterior, thanks to the Lexus L-finesse design language, has been transformed from the rotund image of its past into quite a sleek and handsome looking automobile.

The ES 350 comes in three trim levels. With the standard package ($42,900) you get a full suite of luxury features: everything from keyless entry with push-button start (a first for the ES) and an air circulation system that detects harmful particulates, to 10-way power adjustable, heated and ventilated leather seats and a power sliding/tilt moon roof. Not to mention a more-than-average sounding AM/FM/six-CD sound system with MP3/WMA capability with auxiliary input jack and steering wheel audio controls. It’s nice to see a vehicle that includes an MP3 player input jack with its base package, if at all.

If you do upgrade to the Premium Package (an additional $3,600) you’ll find yourself benefiting from a power rear window sunshade (which automatically retracts when the reverse gear is selected) and rain-sensing wipers. From an aesthetic point-of-view, the wood-grain trim adds a nice touch to the steering wheel and shift ****, enriching the overall cabin environment. Not to mention, the safety factor is also boosted with the Premium Package, as rear seat side airbags are included in the mix.

I’m a firm believer, that if you’re going to drive a Lexus, you should go for the best-of-the-best, in this case the Ultra Premium Package ($54,300). Contained therein are all the features listed above, plus a DVD-based navigation system with back-up camera, Mark Levinson audio system (which absolutely trumped the base system which impressed me enough to begin with) and a beautiful panorama glass roof – a first for Lexus. The Ultra Premium Package also offers 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels that will definitely make you reconsider the base options.

Other major improvements from the previous generation include an extended wheelbase and a fully retuned suspension that provides smooth and unmatched ride comfort from the previous ES.

The 2007 ES isn’t prudish in the fast lane either. Its 3.5-litre, 272-horsepower V6 mated to an all-new six-speed automatic transmission will have you hitting 100 kilometres in just under seven seconds. That’s 54 more horses than the 2003 ES. Not to mention, it also provides 254 lb-ft. of torque. That’s better performance than you’ll find in competitors such as the Acura TL or Cadillac CTS 3.6.

And while you are blasting past the speed traps on the highway, double-paned, acoustic controlled glass and a Thinsulate floor damping coating keep the cabin quiet with virtually no wind noise (and also keeps the sound of the sirens low too).

The ES 350 is also packed with safety features, and not just the standard fair either. Of course there’s the traditional driver and passenger dual-stage front and a front and rear side curtain airbags, but the ES is equipped with driver and front passenger knee airbags as well. Rear seat-mounted side airbags are also available. There’s also a tire pressure monitoring system that keeps tabs on the pressure in all the tires including the standard full-size spare in the trunk. The system can register a normal set of tires, or a second set of winter tires by pressing the tire select switch.

The ES is also the first Lexus to feature dual adaptive front lighting system (AFS), which, along with the high-intensity discharge headlamps, is included with both options packages. This feature calculates the target lighting angle based on the steering angle: essentially, the headlights follow the road into the turn, shedding an optimal amount of light for the driver.

One of the coolest features is the centre storage bin that lifts up and back in one sweeping motion. When it closes, the lid swoops down like an eagle grabbing for a fish. It’s this attention to the smallest details that really makes an impression.

But how does it really stack up against other vehicles in its class, such as the TL, CTS 3.6, Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport or Volvo S60 T5?

Where the ES 350 definitely shines is fuel economy: the ES outperforms its competitors averaging 10.9/7.2 L/100km (city/highway). Match that up with its impressive horsepower and torque output and you have a winning combination. Its overall design is also more refined and less obtrusive than its competitors and there is more passenger space in the rear cabin than previous generations.

However, I found the ES does lack in front cabin room, especially headroom, and that’s where the competition has it beat. Most performance junkies won’t care for its front-wheel drive and soft suspension either. But truthfully, most will be too busy enjoying the upgraded interior features to even notice.

The new ES offers one of the smoothest and most comfortable rides in its class. It’s stylish and aerodynamic, warm and functional, quiet and lightweight. Consider as well the powerful engine and premium entertainment system and you have yourself a significant improvement to one of the Lexus brand’s core vehicles. In the end, you feel like you are driving a vehicle worth much more than its price-tag; something most entry-level luxury vehicles fail to accomplish.

New pinnacle of luxury

December 17, 2006

Barbara: I first drove the Lexus flagship LS 400 about 14 years ago. It was luxurious, comfortable and fast, all the things I'd expect from a top-of-the line luxury sedan.

I recently drove the latest generation entry-level Lexus ES 350 sedan; it's much better than the top-of-the-line original.

Fourteen years is a long time in car years, but it's amazing how far this brand has come in that time.

Bill: It's also interesting to note that the new ES 350 is nearly the same size as the original LS400 and has about the same price.

The V-6 engine in the new ES is more powerful than the original LS V-8, and the ES is a few hundred pounds lighter.

However, as you said, Barbara, 14 years is long time in car years, and this new model is probably an even better deal than the original.

Barbara: Riding on a 2-inch longer wheelbase, the new ES 350 is developed under the Lexus new L-finesse design theme that evokes the classic sports car proportions in a contemporary application of the long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck configuration.

The same styling cues are present in all the new-generation Lexus cars.

The interior of our well-equipped test vehicle was simple but elegant with leathers, woods and high-quality plastic.

The base model comes with a premium cloth seats. The dash appears as one solid sculptured piece with a center-mounted control/navigation screen surrounded by clearly labeled large buttons.

The wood and leather steering wheel has controls for the audio system, telephone, voice activation and the Dynamic Radar Cruise control.

Bill: Previous versions of the Lexus ES were enhanced versions of the Toyota Camry, but this one distances itself even further with a remarkable level of technological features along with distinctive design cues.

Highlights of the advanced features available include SmartAccess key system with push button start/stop, fifth-generation navigation with rear camera, Bluetooth and Voice-Activation with destination input and Dynamic Radar Cruise Information.

There are also adaptive high-intensive discharge headlights, intuitive parking assist, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound, DVD audio with 7.1-channel speaker architecture and much more.

Barbara: ES 350 pricing starts at $33,865 for a well-equipped car with standard features such as the SmartAccess key system, moonroof, dual zone climate control, premium audio with 6-disc, in-dash CD changer and a long list of other luxury features. However, for shoppers who want the works, there are options that total up to more than $18,000.

I thought our $39,200 test car was equipped with the navigation system and a premium-plus package that included heated and ventilated perforated leather seats and rain-sensing wipers.

Bill: In keeping with the Lexus luxury performance theme, the front-wheel drive ES is powered by a new 3.5-liter, 272-horsepower V-6 that lacks for nothing. The all-aluminum engine has double-overhead cams with dual variable valve timing with intelligence controlling both exhaust and intake valves.

The performance level is good at all levels and as smooth and quiet as nearly anything on the road.

The transmission is a 6-speed automatic with sequential shift that allows the driver to manually shift.

The car has a dual-exhaust system along with four-wheel disc brakes and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Barbara: Safety equipment is extensive with features such as Vehicle Stability Control with traction control, anti-lock brakes and brake-force distribution.

There are dual front air bags, dual front knee bags, front seat-mounted side air bags along with front and rear side curtain air bags. A tire pressure monitor system, tool kit and first aid kit are also standard.

Bill: I recorded 79 mph in my mailbox acceleration test, which I run from where I pull onto the highway and accelerate to the first mailbox, or about one-eighth of a mile.

That translates to a zero-to-60-mph acceleration time of 6.8 seconds. The top speed is limited to 137 mph.

Fuel economy is quite reasonable for such a luxurious and well-performing sedan. The EPA rates it at 21 mpg for city driving and 30 mpg on the highway. We averaged 27.8 mpg during our week of combined condition driving.

Barbara: The Lexus ES 350 is a great entry-level point for the luxury Lexus brand with the features, comfort and elegance we've come to expect from the brand.

Bill: The latest ES exceeded my expectations for features and performance. This car has everything a luxury brand buyer could want.

True, it's not a driver's car like the IS 350, but there is no compromise for the driver that likes the world to move by quickly and quietly while enjoying all the fringe benefits that options can bring.

Lexus ES 350

Standard equipment: 17-inch alloy wheels, Vehicle Stability Control, theft-deterrent system, tire-pressure monitor, tool and first aid kits, SmartAccess with push-button start/stop, 10-way-power front seats, moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium audio with 6-disc CD changer, power windows with one touch up/down and pinch protection, power tilt/telescoping wheel, LED interior lighting, carpeted floor mats, etc.

Base price: $33,170

Price as tested: $39,200

Dimensions

EPA size: Midsize

Weight: 3,580 pounds

Wheelbase: 109.3 inches

Length: 191.1 inches

Width: 71.7 inches

Height: 57.3 inches

Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons

Cargo capacity: 14.7 cubic feet

Mechanical

Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Drive: Front wheel

Performance

Zero to 60 mph: 6.8 seconds

Speed to mailbox: 79 mph

Top speed: (limited) 137 mph

EPA economy rating: 21/30 mpg

Our actual fuel economy: 27.8 mpg

Competitors

Acura TL, Audi A6, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M35, Saab 9-5, Volvo S80

Bob McHugh, The Province

Published: Wednesday, January 17, 2007


Although immensely popular, the Lexus ES has been criticized for being a thinly disguised Toyota Camry.

The build quality has been excellent and it's super dependable, yet the ES has lacked the robust under-hood power expected in a luxury-class car.

Not so, with the launch of the all-new fifth-generation 2007 Lexus ES350.

The new ES has already won the Best New Luxury Car (under $50,000) award and is a contender for overall Canadian Car of the Year award (voting results will be released in February).

And it comes with a gutsy new 3.5-litre 272-h.p. V6 engine mated with a slick six-speed automatic transmission.

A smooth ride and a quiet interior are still the core qualities of the ES. A roomy, well-appointed relaxing cabin environment, where you can enjoy its premium audio system, are additional attributes of this well-appointed elegant sedan.

As you might expect, a standard ES350 comes very well-equipped, but there is a Premium Package ($3,600) upgrade, which came with the test car, and an Ultra Premium Package ($11,400) option.

The Premium Package adds a power rear window sunshade, adaptive HID headlights (that swivel), rear-seat side airbags and other stuff.

"Ultra" adds a navigational system, a backup camera, a panorama glass roof, a 14 speaker Mark Levinson audio system and more to the premium package.

THE LOOKS

Lexus call its new styling theme "L-finesse design" and it features longer exterior proportions and a set-back cabin. It's certainly a more distinctive look and you will not confuse this new ES with a Camry.

The slick, sharper styling lines make the body considerably more aerodynamic. It now has a low 0.28 coefficient of drag and this also contributes to a quieter interior with reduced outside wind noise and improved fuel economy.

THE INSIDE

Gripping the door handle automatically unlocks the ES350 (with the key fob in your pocket). The keyless entry and start system is very convenient when you've got gloves on or your hands are full, as it saves you from that pocket fumbling routine.

And the fob can also be used to remotely close the windows and the sunroof after you've exited the car.

Unlike the Camry, the ES is made in Japan, and as usual, Lexus has done a really nice job on the interior. I particularly liked the polished (real) wood trim in the centre console and on the doors. It gives the cabin a well-dressed look and a warmer feel. The fit and finish was also exemplary.

Nice luxury touches included a two-zone climate-control system, front seats with cool-air ventilation as well as heaters and a power-operated steering wheel with a "get out of way" feature that gives the driver extra room to enter and exit. The centre console storage bin also has a unique clamshell-like opening system that's also different.

SAFETY

The 10 airbags in the test vehicle form an impressive protective barrier against injury to occupants. The unusual additions are the knee bolster bags for both front-seat positions and side airbags for the outboard rear-seat positions.

There was nothing unusual, however, to report from the child-seat inspection. The colourful owner's manual was more informative than most and a comfort guide, on the shoulder belt for the outboard rear seating positions, was a nice feature.

THE DRIVE

An electronic tilt-and-telescopic steering column, a big dead pedal for my left foot and side mirrors that are larger and nearer (positioned further aft along the door) than the norm all added to a comfortable driving position.

A major difference between this car and the previous generation ES becomes apparent when you push on the gas pedal.

The new V6 is a much stronger engine with an extra 57 h.p. that can really move it in a hurry, when you need to. At the Canadian Car of the Year evaluation event it recorded a 7.2-second 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time.

It's a sophisticated dual overhead camshaft engine with variable valve timing and 24 valves. Not only are the power numbers impressive, it's also surprisingly fuel efficient and remarkably smooth and quiet. An electro-hydraulic mounting system for the engine no doubt helps.

The ES is not a light vehicle (1,624 kg) but it doesn't feel heavy when you're driving it. In addition to a tighter new chassis, traction control and stability control system are both standard.

The combination certainly takes the ES further down the sports-sedan route than any previous version, yet there's still a strong emphasis on ride quality.

THE SCORE

Sure to please, the Lexus ES350 is a class act.

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2007 LEXUS ES350

Trim level: ES350, Premium, Ultra Premium

Sticker price: $42,900 - $54,300

Power: 3.5 litre V6 with 272 h.p.

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

Fuel consumption:

10.9/7.2 L/100 km (city/highway)

Basic warranty: Four years/80,000 km

Powertrain: Six years/110,000 km

Rust: Six years/unlimited km

The competition:

Acura TL: $42,500 - $46,300

Cadillac CTS: $36,015 - $70,905

Chrysler 300: $31,065 - $51,450

Infiniti G35: $39,990 - $46,790

Lincoln MKZ: $37,899 - $39,899

Volvo S60 $40,995 - $62,995

On the web: lexus.ca

The Province: driving.ca

BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation: tsf-bcaa.com

© The Vancouver Province 2007