Used 2022 Lexus ES 350 Base

2022 Lexus ES 350: A Detailed Overview

The 2022 Lexus ES 350 continues its tradition of offering a refined, comfortable, and sophisticated mid-size luxury sedan experience. Building on a legacy of quiet operation and smooth cruising, the ES 350 remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing a serene and well-appointed interior, coupled with dependable performance.

Highlights

• Engine: Under the hood, the ES 350 is powered by a potent and smooth 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a healthy 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering seamless gear changes and contributing to the car's overall refined feel. The powertrain offers ample acceleration for daily driving and confident highway passing.

• Safety Features: Lexus prioritizes safety, and the 2022 ES 350 comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. This comprehensive suite includes:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Utilizes radar and cameras to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes.
  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Monitors lane markings and can provide alerts and subtle steering input to keep the vehicle within its lane.
  • All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting to traffic flow.
  • Lane Tracing Assist: Works in conjunction with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, even on gentle curves.
  • Road Sign Assist: Recognizes and displays certain road signs (like speed limits) on the instrument cluster.
  • Intelligent High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic.

• Trims: The 2022 Lexus ES 350 is offered in three distinct trims, each building upon the previous one:

  • ES 350: The well-equipped base model providing a luxurious and feature-rich entry point into the ES lineup.
  • ES 350 Luxury: Elevates the experience with premium appointments like perforated Nuluxe® or genuine leather seating, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting.
  • ES 350 Ultra Luxury: Represents the pinnacle of ES 350 refinement, adding features such as semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating, a panoramic glass roof, and a power rear sunshade for an even more opulent feel.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Exceptional Ride Comfort: The ES 350 is renowned for its supremely comfortable and compliant ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections for a truly serene driving experience.
  • Quiet Interior: The cabin is exceptionally well-insulated from road, wind, and engine noise, making it an ideal environment for conversation or enjoying your favorite music.
  • User-Friendly Infotainment: The standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch infotainment system, controlled via a touchscreen or the Lexus Interface dial, is intuitive and responsive. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration are standard.
  • Spacious Interior: The ES 350 offers generous passenger space, particularly for rear-seat occupants, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers.
  • Elegant Design: The exterior styling is sophisticated and understated, projecting an image of refined luxury.

What to Expect

Owning a 2022 Lexus ES 350 typically translates to a predictable and positive ownership experience. Lexus is synonymous with reliability and durability, and the ES 350 is a prime example of this reputation.

• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is straightforward and typically involves routine oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. Lexus vehicles generally benefit from a comprehensive dealer network with qualified technicians. While scheduled maintenance costs can be slightly higher than non-luxury brands, they are often competitive within the luxury segment. The V6 engine is known for its robust nature, and major component failures are uncommon when properly maintained.

• Insurance: Insurance premiums for the ES 350 will likely be in line with other luxury sedans in its class. Factors such as your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly impact the final cost. Its strong safety ratings and advanced driver-assistance systems may contribute to slightly lower premiums for certain safety-related coverages.

Potential Considerations

While the 2022 Lexus ES 350 excels in many areas, there are a few points buyers might want to consider:

• Engaging Driving Dynamics: While the ES 350 prioritizes comfort, its handling is not as sharp or engaging as some of its sportier rivals. Those seeking a truly dynamic driving experience might find it a bit too sedate.
• Infotainment Control: While the infotainment system is generally user-friendly, the reliance on a remote touchpad controller (in some configurations) can be a point of contention for some drivers, who may prefer a more direct touchscreen interface for all functions.
• Front-Wheel Drive Platform: The ES 350 is based on a front-wheel-drive platform. While this contributes to its spacious interior, some luxury buyers might prefer the rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations offered by competitors for a more traditional luxury sedan feel. (Note: While the ES offers AWD on the ES 250, the ES 350 model reviewed here is FWD only.)

Overall Summary

The 2022 Lexus ES 350 remains a standout choice for buyers seeking a luxurious, comfortable, and impeccably built mid-size sedan. Its potent V6 engine, comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, and exceptionally quiet and refined interior make it a compelling option for everyday commuting and long-distance travel. While it may not appeal to the enthusiast seeking razor-sharp handling, its emphasis on serene cruising and dependable luxury solidifies its position as a segment leader.