2018 Lexus ES Review

Nothing exudes value like America's favorite midsize luxury sedan: the Lexus ES 350. Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, it kicks out 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. At first glance, the A-1 build quality of the ES 350 is unmistakable inside and out, and along with its smooth and easy ride style, reveals its refined underpinnings and solidifies its standing as the top-selling midsize luxury sedan in the US. However, that doesn't mean it remains unchallenged, with some rivals offering better handling dynamics and a more user-friendly infotainment system. Top competitors include the refined and accomplished luxury sport sedan 2018 Infiniti Q50, and the highly efficient Toyota Avalon with which the ES shares some relation. Still, with a starting price of $38,950 the Lexus ES is a worthy contender that checks most of the boxes required for this segment.

What's the Price of the 2018 Lexus ES?

The 2018 Lexus ES 350 has a starting MSRP of $38,950 excluding delivery, processing and handling fees of $1,025 and exclusive of tax, licensing, registration, and any dealer specific incentives. There are no varying trim levels and no optional engine or transmission alternatives, but the manufacturer does offer some additional bundles and features for purchase.

Handling and Driving Impressions

Luxury and comfort are what the ES 350 is all about, most prominently displayed in its smooth and tranquil ride quality. With the use of lightweight, high tensile steel in the framework, it presents excellent body rigidity, allowing suspension engineers to focus on outright comfort. The end product is a serene ride that feels pretty close to perfect.

The front suspension employs opposite-wound coil springs to help enhance straight-line stability. It also effectively neutralizes any jitteriness caused by rougher road surfaces. Bumps and ruts are also nicely absorbed, and owing to the long-wheelbase the chassis remains settled over undulations. There's not much feedback through the wheel, but with light steering, the ES 350 is easy to pilot around turns, responding acutely to inputs and instilling trust in the driver. While a fine-tuned suspension provides ample handling prowess, many competitors do offer better handling and a sportier drive overall.

If you're looking for a bit more performance from your luxury sedan then you'll be glad to know that the ES 350 features an innovative drive mode select that can adapt to suit your needs. Activating the Sport Mode will increase steering and throttle response for a cheekier driving feel, whilst the ECO Mode optimizes efficiency and draws a little less power from the engine.

Verdict: Is the 2018 Lexus ES A Good car?

The Lexus ES 350 has been masterfully equipped to deliver exactly what it was designed to, which is an exemplary driving experience for families or executives. It does so at a very competitive price as well, featuring great value for money relative to competing entry-level luxury sedans. With a comprehensive selection of vehicle and safety features as standard, along with a host of advanced driver-assist elements, whatever isn't included off-the-floor can be added by means of additional packages. It is reasonably fuel-efficient for its class, and the vehicle delivers smooth and easy driving during most conditions. The build quality is superior inside and out, and its spacious cabin has been designed with sleek, modern styling and luxurious materials throughout. Overall the Lexus ES 350 is a great everyday commuter and proves to be a pleasant place to spend extended amounts of drive-time. Although other sedans may offer superior handling dynamics and a sportier drive, the ES holds its own for supreme comfort. At the price point of the ES 350, rivals struggle to deliver as much luxury and comfort.

What Lexus ES Model Should I Buy?

On the grounds that the Lexus ES 350 is a standalone model, there is no selection of trim options to decide from. The existing model is comprehensively equipped although any of the customization options are beneficial in terms of adding convenience and luxury features. We'd recommend upgrading with a couple of packages, namely the Premier Package for a power adjustable steering wheel and heated/ventilated seats, as well as the Mark Levinson sound upgrade - if you're going for luxury you may as well go all out.

2018 Lexus ES Comparisons

2018 Lexus ES vs Toyota Avalon

Both the Lexus ES 350 and Toyota Avalon are fitted with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine, kicking out 268 hp and 248 lb-ft, and are built on the same FWD platform, sharing many similarities. Both vehicles also offer an exceptional ride quality and comfort-oriented drive, though the Toyota may deliver a slightly sportier feel versus the Lexus's comfort bias. The Avalon is flawed in the indifferent placement of some controls and the overuse of cheaper materials which are glaringly obvious throughout the cabin. The ES 350 does a better job of concealing hard-touch areas and presenting a more plush interior. The Avalon is available in a range of trim options, some more affordable than the Lexus. As both vehicles are very similar, it comes down largely to preference, and the fact that overall, the ES 350 is simply much more refined. The ES is better but is more expensive, so if you're budget conscious the Avalon will suit you just fine.

2018 Lexus ES vs Infiniti Q50

For those looking for a sporty, performance-based sedan, the Infiniti Q50 is undoubtedly going to be a better choice over the ES 350. At only a slight price jump, the mid-level LUXE trim in the Infiniti range has access to a larger and more powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine which produces 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Paired to a seven-speed automatic gearbox, the Q50 is also available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, whereas drivetrains options are limited to one variant in the Lexus sedan. On the other hand, the stronger, faster engine on the Q50 implies a less fuel-efficient vehicle in the long run. The Q50 also strives to provide an image of comfort and quality, although we feel the ES 350 pulls this off in a much more effective, natural manner. Of course, it doesn't hurt that Lexus carries a reputation for style and good quality vehicles in general. The infotainment system in the Q50 is a little more intuitive than the ES 350s, but not by much. Based purely on performance, the Q50 is the better option. We remain unconvinced of its superiority when it comes down to overall quality, however, and if comfort and quality are up your alley, the Lexus can't be beaten.