Lexus ES 350 2014 Review

It’s been seven years since the Australian market was last offered a Lexus ES. Now, in its sixth-generation guise, we’ve got two to choose from: the ES 350 and ES300h (hybrid). But have they been worth the wait? Yes, they pack an impressive list of features, and technology, boasts a larger footprint, and gives more refined handling. But the entry price rivals the Germans, and that, as they say, is the $64,000 question.

Lexus says the return of its mid-sized ES to the Australian market is a response to customer demand. But is that really true? Or should we tell ‘em they’re dreaming?

Fitting between the IS and GS lines in Lexus’ current portfolio, the sixth-generation ES has a lot to offer, and comes priced from a very respectable $63,000 (plus on-road costs, in Hybrid form).

On test we have the petrol-powered $65,000 (plus ORCs) ES 350 Luxury, which sits at the entry end of a two-model line-up, and is topped by the $74,000 (plus ORCs) ES 350 Luxury Sports.

Petrol-electric hybrid models are likewise specified, and are preceded by a 300h (for hybrid) nameplate, but arrive slightly cheaper at $63,000 and $72,000 respectively (again, plus ORCs).

Our test candidate features an Aurion-sourced 3.5-litre petrol V6 making 204kW at 6200rpm and 346Nm from 2300rpm. They’re good figures for a normally-aspirated unit, and are adequate enough to propel the 1600kg sedan from rest to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds.

The ES 350 is fitted exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission which is switchable through three modes via Lexus’ Drive Mode Select system. Eco, Normal and Sport modes are offered, each presenting an appropriate character for more efficient, or more spirited driving.

Despite its fat list of features -- and sublime fit and finish -- the ES 350 is far from extroverted. There’s an honest simplicity about the car, and one that I found incredibly alluring. It’s like the most exquisite vanilla ice-cream you’ve ever tasted, albeit one with an expectant level of sophistication.

Accommodation levels are likewise excellent with both front and rear-seat passengers afforded ample hip, leg and shoulder room. Lexus says there’s more inner space than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and, up back at least, I concede they may be correct.

But up front I was not as convinced. The electrically-adjustable driver’s seat failed to offer a relaxed, supportive position from which to pilot the car. Electric adjustment on the steering column helped, but in the end the ergonomics just didn’t gel. It’s a shame considering the blend of hand-stitched leather, woodgrain and high sheen plastics are perfectly plush.

Technology is of a high standard in the ES 350, though the cabin is a bit of a button frenzy Got a specific need? I suspect there’s a button to remedy it.

The standard kit list includes sat nav, keyless entry, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, rear-seat sunshade, a reversing camera and 17-inch alloy wheels.

A premium sound system is also offered, and boasts eight speakers, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, a digital receiver, and colour touchscreen.

On the road, the ES 350’s engineering wizardry translates well. There’s a seamless and effortless vibe across pretty much every aspect its road-going prowess, which begins with a gruff exhaust note as you accelerate from standstill.

It’s fast from the blocks, and shifts cleanly through is six-speed ‘box with lively intent. Yes, there’s a little resonance from the exhaust, but it adds character in what’s otherwise a very quiet – and composed – ride.

The ES 350’s new platform feels up to task in the bends and is reasonably well supported. It soaks up the bumps rather well, too, though the steering is not as sharp as I’d have liked, and at times feels almost nebulous.

Driving predominantly in urban confines the ES 350 returned an average of 10.6L/100km against the ADR Combined tally of 9.5. That’s pretty good going, though the 5.5L average of the Hybrid variant is more likely to appeal if fuel economy is a priority.

Lexus says it hopes to sell 1200 examples of the ES this year, or around half that of the Audi A4. If my week with the model is anything to go by, those numbers should be quite achievable, especially if you dream of something other than simply fitting in.

What we liked:
>> Luxurious fit and finish
>> Generous accommodation
>> Vibrant V6 petrol engine

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