2022 Lexus ES 350

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Rating7.7

Ranked #20 in 

Midsize Sedan
Write Review
$40,950 - $50,130
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on August 14, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Luxury at its best

Price could have been reduced

Intersection Turning Assist

Interior accents and accessories

Lexus Safety System+ 2.5

Exterior appeal

Touch-screen usability

Safety assurance

Bi-LED headlights

Balanced cabin

Dynamic Handling Package for F Sport trim

Upgraded Pre-Collision System unit

Specs & Features

$40,950

price

302 hp @ 6600 rpm

horsepower

267 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

torque

8-speed Automatic

transmission

3.5L 6cyl FWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Long gone are the days when sedans had their ways in every lane and road map. Being sidelined by a new era of SUVs, the luxury sedans are probably the only viable options to keep the rays radiating as brighter as possible. As a response to that, the Lexus is coming once again with its established model popularly known as the ES 350 among its proponents. 

Buying Advice

The foundation of the upcoming Lexus ES 350 will be established beforehand, if it retains that caliber of what’s expected from it, meaning, the Base will itself suffice your urge for the luxurious and comfortable cabin. Proportionate in its interior engagement, appearance, and operation economy, the Base trim is no less than any of its siblings. It is true that the higher-ups are more and better equipped but the Base is well-equipped and that is where we achieve maximum cost-effectiveness with decent honey-potting. Long-hauling, safety insurance, and top-notch cabin accents, there will be hardly anything left to accomplish in this sedan.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

A highly content sedan with some really exciting and inspiring upgrades for the upcoming year, the ES 350 becomes worth considering for our analysis and tip-toe tear down. Straight-up against the market shares of the Infiniti Q50, Nissan Maxima, and the Acura TLX, the 2022 Lexus ES 350 seems to be the most expensive rival but is supposed to be featuring the required assists and purpose-driven practicality which will justify the tag.

Features

A branch of 4 trims; Base, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury can be expected to be continuing in the upcoming Lexus ES 350 with all those standard features and some little refinements in different sectors. The Base will be pretty much satisfactory in many senses if it follows the same course as that of its predecessor of having Lexus MultiMedia System along with a 10-Speaker Premium Sound System which happens to be constant in all the trim except for the Ultra Luxury. And if that is somewhere close to being true then we might be seeing the high-bass Mark Levinson Speakers at its disposal for one’s musical enrichment in the Ultra Luxury. 

Moreover, it is no guesswork but a definite fact that the Lexus ES 350 will be getting the upgraded Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 which will host a set of inspiring safety assists like the Lane Departure Alert, Pre-Collision System, Emergency Steering Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control.

Trims

Base 

F Sport

Luxury

Ultra Luxury

MSRP(FWD)

(Expected)

$41,025

$46,825

$46,225

$50,025

Key Features

Lexus MultiMedia System 

10-Speaker Premium Sound System

8" Color Display

Integrated Navigation System

 

Dual-Zone Climate Control

19" x 8J Split-5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy

HomeLink Garage Door Transmitter

Mark Levinson Speakers

 

17-inch Split-10-Spoke Alloy Wheels with Dark Silver And Machined Finish

F SPORT Front Seats

Perforated Leather Seat Trim

All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control 

 

SmartAccess

Apple CarPlay

Driver Seat Memory Function

Semi-Aniline Leather Seat Trim

 

Drive Mode Select

Android Auto

Lexus Safety System+ 2.5

Emergency Steering Assist

 

10-way power adjustability

10-speaker Pioneer audio system

Automatic Emergency Braking

Pre-Collision System

The variations throughout the trim structure in terms of comfort and convenience are speculative to be generic and all of them will fairly own a decent share of credibility. The power-adjustability can be expected to be available but it is those heating and ventilation functions that might remain exclusive for higher trims. Apart from year-on-year upgrades, the Drive Mode Select, SmartAccess, and Apple CarPlay integration will always find their relevance irrespective of generation. The narrative is true for easy command touches as well which include the likes of the Remote Releases, HomeLink Garage Door Transmitter, and Tracker System.

Which Trim should you buy? 

The foundation of the upcoming Lexus ES 350 will be established beforehand, if it retains that caliber of what’s expected from it, meaning, the Base will itself suffice your urge for the luxurious and comfortable cabin. Proportionate in its interior engagement, appearance, and operation economy, the Base trim is no less than any of its siblings. It is true that the higher-ups are more and better equipped but the Base is well-equipped and that is where we achieve maximum cost-effectiveness with decent honey-potting. Long-hauling, safety insurance, and top-notch cabin accents, there will be hardly anything left to accomplish in this sedan.

2022 Lexus ES 350 Release Date

The Lexus ES 350 is a huge customer-based machinery thanks to its historic endeavors and satisfying accomplishments because of which there is a sense of impatience in the market for its arrival. Though, there has been no official announcement from the brand’s end yet, as per the going trend we are assuming that it will be available by the end of 2021 at the dealerships. But with some uncertain patches of murkiness because of this ongoing pandemic, taking two to three months offset would be more precise to comment.

Fuel Economy
8.5/10

As mentioned earlier, it is anticipated that the Lexus ES 350 might continue with its 3.5 L capacity V-6 meaning we would not be seeing a change in its mileage as well. A return of 22 mpg, 32 mpg, and 26 mpg in the city, highways, and combined will supposedly be the same yet will lead the pack. After digging deep, we come to realize that the trade-offs at the performance curve give it extra miles per gallon but a lower fuel-tank capacity of 15.9 gallons does not let it reach its true potential, refraining it to less than 510 miles mark even at its peak.

Models

2022 Lexus ES 350

2021 Nissan Maxima

2021 Infiniti Q50

2021 Acura TLX

MPG (City)

22

20

20

22

MPG (Highway)

32

30

29

31

MPG (Combined)

26

24

23

25

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

15.9

18

20

15.9

Range (City/Highway/Combined, in Miles)

349.80 / 508.8 / 413.4

360 / 540 / 432

400 / 580 / 460

349.80 / 492.9 / 397.5

As per data, we see that there is no inching ahead of the predicted figures of 2022 Lexus ES 350 but it is that range compatibility where the Nissan Maxima and Infiniti Q50 outshine it by more than 40 miles at the least. The one thing we should also heed is the fact that a 500-mile mark might be in comparison lower but when viewed individually is no less than any desirable feat. So, it is not like we will keep the ES 350 out of scope as a slight change in its fuel tank capacity will do all the necessities.

Interior
8.0/10

The tale of the Lexus ES 350 will most probably begin right from where it has left its mark. The feel of the Chateau NuLuxe with Striated Black Trim for the seats in the Base and F Sport cupping with Hadori Aluminum accent are very much anticipated to have their presence in this charm-enraged sedan in the upcoming year. The Luxury taking a step further with its Chateau leatherette in Dark Mocha wood contrast will also maintain its uniformity and continuity. Apart from that, there are other focal points to be concerned about as well and standing first in the line is the Dual-Zone Climate Control which is more like a basic amenity that will either remain to be as it is or might level-up to a -Zone format at the max. 

The technology access is also expected to be very much content in its nature as one might get to manipulate the algorithms of Voice Command, Lexus apps, and Lexus Enform Service Connect in the 2022 ES 350. Thus, it will be simply the best-in-class holding all the virtues of functionality and purposes if it followed the same trajectory

Models

2022 Lexus ES 350

2021 Nissan Maxima

2021 Infiniti Q50

2021 Acura TLX

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

37.5/55.9/42.4

39.4/ 56.7/ 45.0

40.2/56.7/44.5

37.2/57.5/42.6

Rear Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

37.8/54.3/39.2

36.7/56.7/34.2

37.5/56.1/35.1

36.7/55.4/34.5

Trunk Capacity (cubic feet)

16.7

14.3

13.2

13.5

Well, by far the most balanced cabin as per the predictive spec-sheet, the Lexus ES 350 will pose a great challenge to its rivals. Right from the speculative class-leading trunk volume to highly flexible space management, the capacity to seat in 5 in a roll, makes the 2022 ES 350 the most desirable luxury sedan. On the other hand, the others are on the same scale in totality and share the same reputation altogether. In addition, the Lexus ES 350 is a gem for its seat cushioning, proper visibility, and easy ingress and egress. Therefore, we rate it on the top in the specific category and as our first preference. 

Some of the features are:

  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • Voice Command
  • Chateau NuLuxe with Striated Black Trim
  • Power adjustable seats
  • Heating and ventilated functions in higher trim
  • Driver Seat Memory Function

How intuitive is the 2022 Lexus ES 350’s infotainment unit?

A realm with the compatibility of Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus App does have a high probability to continue in the upcoming 2022 Lexus ES 350. Not just that, even the Lexus MultiMedia System incorporated into an 8” Color Display will also have its emblem embossed inside the cabin. The reverberation and echoing will be at its zenith with the Lexus 10-Speaker Premium Sound System, as per prediction, which may expand its wings to be Mark Levinson Speakers as per trim specialization. Then cometh the standard features like the Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio, Lexus Enform WiFi, and Voice Command who will hardly see any changes. Hence it won’t be unjust to say that it will be worthy of its price tag.

Some of the features are:

  • 8” Color Display
  • Amazon ALexa
  • Lexus MultiMedia System
  • Lexus App 
  • HD Radio
  • Lexus 10-Speaker Premium Sound System
  • Android Auto

Exterior
6.0/10

Lexus has always been meticulous for every inch possible. The flow throughout the silhouette, be it any segment, and calculated gradient from the front to the top to the rear have never been out of proportion and those are certainly going to be restored in the all-new 2022 Lexus ES 350. The statement is underpinned by the fact that the Lexus ES 350 will most probably retain the fascinating color portraits on its panels which entail the mentions of Eminent White Pearl, Matador Red Mica, Sunlit Green, and many more. 

The sharp-edged headlamps along with dark-background chrome-accented grille, if sculpted as its predecessor, will give it an aggressive look in conjunction with the pairs of either 17-inch Split-10-Spoke Alloy Wheels with Dark Silver & Machined Finis h or 19" x 8J Split-5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels. The rear spoiler, for improving downforce dynamics, will also be definitely there from F Sport trim onwards along with standard power moonroof across the strata. Thus, it is going to be inspiring and only time will let us relish it.

Models

2022 Lexus ES 350

2021 Nissan Maxima

2021 Infiniti Q50

2021 Acura TLX

Curb Weight (lbs)

3690

3565

3732

3709

Length (inches)

195.9

192.8

189.6

194.6

Width (inches)

73.4

73.2

71.8

75.2

Height (inches)

56.9

56.5

56.8

56.4

Ground Clearance (inches)

N/A

5.3

N/A

N/A

Wheelbase (inches)

113

109.3

112.2

113

The comparison among the rivals enlightens us about the takeaway that they share the same reputation and respect in their periphery for each other. The streamlined lengthiness along with almost parallel weight transfer hardly impact or bring noticeable change in their handling perspective. The lateral torque shift on the axle is very much constrained in all of them to a large extent with balanced track width to wheelbase aspect ratio. Thus, we will rate all of them at par with one other including the 2022 Lexus ES 350 as it is predicted to have no major change in these figures as such. 

Some of the figures are:

  • 19" x 8J Split-5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels
  • Power Moonroof
  • Rear Spoiler
  • LED Brakelights
  • 215/55R17 AS
  • Bi-Led Headlamps
  • Dark-background chrome-accented grille

Safety
9.0/10

Poetry in its writing would be apt to elaborate the upgraded Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 which leaves no space for any sort of flaw in its functionality along with the Blind-Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Such a level of sophistication with the prowess of an all-new additive feature namely Intersection Turning Assist in pairing with the preexisting ones like the Pre-Collision System, Automatic Emergency Braking, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The reliability in this luxury is so premium that one can’t question or even mark an exclamation till the Emergency Steering Assist, Lane Departure Alert, and Intelligent High Beams are present. 

Further adding to that, we may also come to a conclusion, as per its past performances, that the Lexus ES 350 will have sound structural integrity as it has already been awarded the “Top Safety Pick +” in 2021 and an overall 5-star rating in the NHTSA crash tests. Therefore, cabin insulation and crash dissipation resilience are going to be inherent and natural in the 2022 Lexus ES 350 which will give a boost to its pre-booking and sales numbers. 

Some of the features are:

  • Emergency Steering Assist
  • Lane Departure Alert
  • All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
  • Pre-Collision System
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Competition
6.0/10

2022 Lexus ES 350 vs. 2021 Nissan Maxima

Nicely defined and appealing are the two commonalities in these two rivals and that’s what makes them the fiercest of all. There is nothing much to comment on their handling pursuit as they are pretty comparable on all scales but it is upgraded safety prowess where the former might edge out the latter.

The entertainment package on offer in the Lexus ES 350 is also exemplary which enhances its personification. But then Nissan Maxima covers up with its range dominance and high-speed capabilities. On the whole, the segment is more inclined towards accents and comfort and not performance, so the balance favors the ES 350. 

2022 Lexus ES 350 vs. 2021 Infiniti Q50

The best-in-class range and performance and too by far miles are in themselves the testaments to the powertrain dominance of Q50 but it is also true its fluidic design might not be in the bout against what the Lexus ES 350 represents on the inside and outside. Better trim availability, tech-assist features, and engaging cabin give ES 350 a jump start. Even the mileage segment is better in it and a little improvement in the fuel tank capacity might help it to be the leader of the pack as well.

2022 Lexus ES 350 vs. 2021 Acura TLX  

As per analysis, the Acura TLX is more like a sibling to the Lexus ES 350 for many reasons. Be it expression pursuit or accent with tech accessibility, they are pretty much the same to a large extent but the storyline tends to differ as we start to follow contour bedrocks of practicality as the ES 350 comes slightly ahead of the former with its balanced cabin spaciousness, cargo volume, range coverage, and safety complexity. It is the performance figure where the Acura might be outclassing its rival but the gap is significantly low and is of no importance in any sense. So, we would prefer ES 250 in this competition.

Final Verdict

The spec sheet is evident of the fact that the ES 250 is the best when we have a holistic overview. One is entitled to get all in this package including the decent performance, mileage, range, and spacious seating arrangement. The feel over the counters is also up to the mark. Premium touches on seats and steering and that too high cushioning for long hauling is just impressive. It does have the caliber to attract viewership as well. Therefore, it is a must-buy without a doubt. 

Trims

    Base
    $40,950 onwards
    • 17-inch aluminum Wheels
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Driver and passenger Lumbar support
    • Dual zone automatic front air conditioning
    • Heated mirrors
    • Nuluxe leatherette Seat trim
    • Remote keyless entry
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/HD/Satellite
    • Sliding and tilting glass Sunroof
    F Sport
    $45,600 onwards
    • Engine: 3.5L 6cyl FWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 302 hp @ 6600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 267 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.1 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 25 mpg
    Luxury
    $46,350 onwards
    • 18-inch aluminum Wheels
    • Leather Seat trim
    Ultra Luxury
    $50,130 onwards
    • 18-inch polished aluminum Wheels
    • Navigation system
    • Semi-Aniline leather Seat trim

Compare to similar cars

Price

$40,950- $50,130

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.71

Horsepower

302 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque

267 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$40,950- $50,130

Gasoline

7.63

203 hp @ 6500 rpm

184 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

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$37,295- $50,095

Gasoline

6.93

235 hp @ 5000 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

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$48,250- $63,700

Gasoline

6.95

300 hp @ 5800 rpm

311 lb.-ft. @ 1650 rpm

5

Read Review

$45,300- $51,000

Gasoline

8.02

296 hp @ 5500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$38,900- $54,500

Gasoline

7.44

272 hp @ 6500 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$42,100- $57,950

Gasoline

6.62

300 hp @ 6400 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$37,840- $43,150

Gasoline

6.99

300 hp @ 6400 rpm

261 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

Read Review

$69,200- $78,350

Gasoline

7.36

335 hp @ 5000 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

5

Read Review

$39,900- $50,900

Gasoline

7.45

201 hp @ 4200 rpm

236 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.6 sec14.5 sec-
    2022 Audi A7

    Ranked #1

    5.2 sec13.7 sec130 mph
    5.5 sec13.9 sec152 mph
    5.6 sec14.1 sec130 mph
    5.8 sec--
    5.8 sec--

    2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      22 mpg32 mpg26 mpg15.9 gal.349.8/508.8 mi.
      26 mpg36 mpg30 mpg15.6 gal.405.6/561.6 mi.
      26 mpg35 mpg30 mpg15.9 gal.413.4/556.5 mi.
      2022 Audi A4

      Ranked #2

      26 mpg34 mpg29 mpg15.3 gal.397.8/520.2 mi.
      25 mpg34 mpg28 mpg15.9 gal.397.5/540.6 mi.
      25 mpg33 mpg28 mpg18 gal.450/594 mi.

      2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        195.9 in.73.4 in.56.9 in.5.9 in.113 in. -
        200.4 in.74.6 in.57.1 in.5.9 in.120.5 in. -
        196.7 in.75.8 in.57.7 in.5.5 in.118.5 in. -
        195.9 in.72.8 in.56.5 in.5.3 in.113 in. -
        195.9 in.73.4 in.56.9 in.-113 in. -
        195.8 in.73.5 in.58.2 in.5.5 in.117.1 in. -

        2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          13.9 cu.ft.99.9 cu.ft.13.9 cu.ft.
          13.5 cu.ft.93.4 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.
          13.1 cu.ft.103.8 cu.ft.100.7 cu.ft.
          17 cu.ft.125.8 cu.ft.61 cu.ft.
          2022 Audi A4

          Ranked #2

          12 cu.ft.124.6 cu.ft.41 cu.ft.
          14 cu.ft.98.8 cu.ft.18 cu.ft.

          2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            128.2 cu.ft.13.9 cu.ft.13.9 cu.ft.-
            5.3 cu.ft.11.6 cu.ft.5.3 cu.ft.122 ft.
            83.1 cu.ft.16.1 cu.ft.68.7 cu.ft.-
            2022 Audi A7

            Ranked #4

            83.1 cu.ft.24.9 cu.ft.14.3 cu.ft.211 ft.
            42.8 cu.ft.13.5 cu.ft.42.8 cu.ft.-
            68.6 cu.ft.32.3 cu.ft.68.6 cu.ft.-

            2022 Lexus ES 350 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              -905 lbs.3690 lbs.
              2000 lbs.950 lbs.4232 lbs.
              2000 lbs.890 lbs.3786 lbs.
              -960 lbs.3780 lbs.
              2022 Audi A7

              Ranked #2

              -1102 lbs.4343 lbs.
              -1444 lbs.3781 lbs. -

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