2019 Lexus ES 350 Overview
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 represents a significant evolution for Lexus's popular mid-size luxury sedan, marking the debut of its seventh generation. This redesign brings a bolder aesthetic, a more engaging driving experience, and a wealth of advanced technology, all while retaining the brand's signature comfort and refinement. The ES 350 continues to be a compelling choice for those seeking a sophisticated and reliable luxury sedan with a focus on smooth cruising and passenger well-being.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance:
- 3.5-Liter V6 Engine: Powering the ES 350 is a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This is a substantial increase over the previous generation, offering strong acceleration and confident merging capabilities.
- 8-Speed Automatic Transmission: Mated to the V6 is an smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission contributes to both fuel efficiency and a refined driving experience, providing responsive power delivery when needed.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The ES 350 comes standard with front-wheel drive, a configuration that prioritizes traction and predictable handling in various conditions.
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Safety Features:
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0: This comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies is standard on all 2019 ES 350 models. It includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Utilizes a forward-facing camera and radar to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. If a collision is imminent, it can provide alerts and automatically apply the brakes.
- All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to keep pace. This system works across the full speed range, including stopping and starting.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Detects if the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane and can provide alerts and gentle steering inputs to help keep it centered.
- Intelligent High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles' headlights or taillights, improving nighttime visibility without dazzling other drivers.
- Road Sign Assist: Reads certain road signs (like speed limits and stop signs) and displays them on the multi-information display.
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (Optional/Available on higher trims): Blind Spot Monitor warns of vehicles in your blind spots, while Rear Cross-Traffic Alert alerts you to approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0: This comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies is standard on all 2019 ES 350 models. It includes:
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Trim Summary:
- ES 350: The base model offers a wealth of standard luxury features and the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 2.0.
- ES 350 Luxury: Elevates the experience with premium materials, enhanced comfort features like a power-adjustable steering column and rear-seat amenities, and a more premium interior.
- ES 350 Ultra Luxury: Represents the pinnacle of ES 350 comfort, adding features such as ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and advanced interior lighting.
- ES 350 F SPORT: For those seeking a sportier aesthetic and slightly more dynamic feel, the F SPORT trim includes unique exterior styling elements, sport-tuned suspension, bolstered sport seats, and specific interior trim.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Striking New Design: The 2019 ES 350 features a bold, spindle grille, sharper body lines, and a lower, wider stance, giving it a more dynamic and premium appearance.
- Spacious and Luxurious Interior: The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and ample passenger space, especially in the rear.
- Intuitive Infotainment: The standard 8-inch Lexus Multimedia Display is controlled via the Remote Touchpad, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. Apple CarPlay is also standard, with Android Auto available.
- Quiet and Refined Ride: Lexus is renowned for its quiet interiors, and the 2019 ES 350 continues this tradition, providing a serene and comfortable driving environment.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Lexus ES 350 generally translates to a smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free ownership experience. Lexus vehicles are known for their legendary reliability, and the ES 350 is no exception. You can expect dependable performance with minimal unexpected issues.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance will involve standard oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, which are typically straightforward and can be performed at any Lexus dealership or qualified independent mechanic. Given Lexus's reputation, maintenance costs are generally competitive within the luxury segment, though potentially higher than non-luxury brands.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for a luxury sedan like the ES 350 will likely be higher than for a comparable non-luxury vehicle. Factors influencing your specific premium will include your driving record, age, location, coverage levels, and the specific trim chosen. It's always advisable to get personalized quotes from multiple insurance providers.
- Driving Experience: The ES 350 excels at comfortable highway cruising and daily commuting. Its V6 engine provides ample power for most situations, and the suspension is tuned for a plush ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. While the F SPORT trim offers a slightly more engaging feel, the ES 350 remains primarily focused on refined comfort over outright sportiness.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Lexus ES 350 is a highly competent luxury sedan, there are a few points buyers might want to be aware of:
- Infotainment Control: The Lexus Remote Touchpad interface, while aiming for a modern feel, can be divisive. Some drivers find it intuitive and easy to use, while others might prefer a traditional touchscreen or rotary dial for infotainment control, especially while driving.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics (Base Models): While the chassis and suspension were improved for this generation, the ES 350 (outside of the F SPORT) is not designed to be a performance sedan. Enthusiast drivers seeking sharp handling and a more connected feel to the road might find it less engaging than some German or American luxury competitors.
- Rear-Wheel Drive Options Unavailable: As a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the ES 350 does not offer the option of rear-wheel drive, which some luxury sedan buyers might prefer for performance or handling characteristics.
- No Hybrid Option in the ES 350: For those seeking better fuel efficiency and a hybrid powertrain within the ES lineup, the ES 300h model offers a hybrid option, which the ES 350 does not.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 is a triumphant redesign that successfully blends Lexus's traditional strengths of comfort, quietness, and reliability with a bolder design and a more potent powertrain. It offers a sophisticated and serene cabin, a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, and a smooth, effortless driving experience, making it an excellent choice for luxury sedan buyers prioritizing refined transportation and peace of mind. While not the sportiest option in its class, it delivers a highly competent and desirable package for its intended audience.