The Lexus ES 350 F Sport is one of the best all around sedans I have driven. It is sporty enough for someone that wants performance but also really classy interior that is comfortable to drive and for the passengers as well.
Highlights
The highlights for me were overall performance and comfort. I also really like the exterior, interior and the mix of sport and class that Lexus has managed to blend in this sedan. I like smooth acceleration and power, the ES 350 delivers on both.
Driver Experience
The ES 350 F Sport handling and acceleration are on par with a lot of sports cars but the interior is spacious and comfortable. It is fitted with an updated structure that rests on a rigid chassis made from high-strength steel. Designers used more structure adhesives with the GA-K chassis, which makes the cabin extremely quiet. The car’s suspension has also been redesigned to deliver both comfort and great handling.
All the upgrades have resulted in an impressive combination of handling and driving dynamics that make it quick and nimble considering the size of the car. A reliable 3.5 Liter V6 combined with the front wheel drive 8 speed transmission can take the car from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds but you will think it’s even faster. . When it comes to the Lexus ES 50 F Sport, the thing that stands out the most is the overall driving experience.
Interior
The F Sport cabin is a sight to behold with diagonal sweeps on the doors, dash, and console. Designers utilized several high-contrast combinations that include flashy Circuit Red and black hues. The instrument panel is similar to that of LS flagship. It includes an analog tachometer, an 8-inch instrument color display that features movable elements, and a digital speedometer. The F Sport also features a thicker-rimmed perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel for more comfort. Additionally, it features leather-wrapped Hadori aluminum trim.
Owners also get a power moonroof, manual tilt/ telescopic steering columns, keyless access, and push button start. In the center console, there is a short-travel automatic shift and foam-backed pad on the sides of the console. Lexus has also added an optional wireless charger for Qi-enabled phones in the center-console armrest lid. There is a hint of the classic Lexus in the form of an analog clock located to the left of the infotainment screen.
Exterior
The 2020 F Sport features muscular fender bulges, which hints at its elevated athleticism. It is more sculpted compared to previous alliterations and features a coupe-like roofline that slopes aggressively at the back. At the front, it features an outsized and daring spindle-shaped grille. Buyers of the F Sport will get a blackout grill, a larger front fascia side scoops, unique rear valance, a rear spoiler, and 19-inch dark graphite wheels. It is a beautiful car all the way around and definitely gets some second glances.
Engine / Powertrain
The F Sport comes with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine with an aluminum block and cylinder heads. It features direction and port injection and is capable of producing 302 HP at 6600 RPM and 267 lb-ft of torque at 4700 RPM. It can move the F Sport from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 MPH. Gas mileage is good considering the power and acceleration plus there are different modes depending on your mood. You can count on 25 city MPG and 34 Highway MPG for a combined 28 MPG.
Safety
The standard safety package includes a rearview camera and the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0. It features several advanced safety features that include low-light pedestrian detection, collision warning system, daytime cyclist detection, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, lane departure alert coupled with steering assistance, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features include parking sensors with automatic emergency braking, a head-up display, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
Conclusion
The 2020 Lexus ES 350 F SPORT is a sensible and luxurious choice for anyone looking for a sport sedan. It has a stylish exterior, a beautiful interior, and great handling. It is one of the best combinations of Sports car and Luxury Sedan I have driven. The performance and handling rate well against the competition and the price tag is less than you would expect for the overall value.
MSRP
$44,635
As Tested
$53,990
