The Lexus ES 350 Ultra Luxury is a top-notch four-door luxury sedan with agile handling suitable for five passengers. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine I tested was in an eye-catching Iridium Exterior. This model came with the Ultra Luxury Package, providing a serene and spacious interior loaded with advanced technology. It boasts various driver assistance features and a hybrid powertrain for enhanced safety and impressive fuel efficiency.
Lexus has focused on enhancing the quality and value in the 2022 ES without making drastic changes. They have worked on refining the quietness, ride comfort, steering, and overall drivability of the ES.
Highlights
Lexus consistently delivers excellence, and the ES does not fall short of that expectation. It offers a luxurious ride and driving experience, with a standout feature being the upgraded and repositioned 12.3-inch color display for multimedia functions. The interior exudes luxury with its leather seats and provides a comfortable experience for occupants.
Driver Experience
The ES 350 Ultra Luxury delivers the handling and acceleration you would anticipate from a Lexus model. The cabin offers exceptional quietness, even when driving through noisy areas like the 202 stretch in Phoenix. Adjustments to the chassis have improved suspension comfort and handling.
Interior
Living up to its Ultra Luxury name, the ES interior is exceptionally refined. It features perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats with 14-way driver and 10-way passenger power adjustments that are heated and ventilated. The interior design, including beautiful wood trim and ambient lighting, creates a delightful ambiance. The experience is further elevated by the 17-speaker, 1800-watt Mark Levinson sound system.
Exterior
The ES showcases the iconic Lexus design cues, such as the spindle grille, elegant headlights, and crafted lines running from the hood to the rear of the car. The Triple Beam LED headlights enhance the exterior aesthetics. The car’s overall look is sophisticated and stylish, with the 18-inch split five-spoke wheels featuring a high-gloss finish as standard on the Ultra Luxury grade.
Engine / Powertrain
Equipped with a smooth V-6 engine producing 302 horsepower, the ES 350 offers a satisfying driving experience. The 8-speed automatic transmission delivers seamless shifting and acceleration. With multiple driving modes, from relaxed cruising to Sport mode for more spirited driving, the ES Ultra Luxury features an enhanced suspension for improved ride comfort, steering precision, and cornering control.
Safety
The 2022 ES prioritizes safety through the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 (LSS+ 2.5) included across all trim levels. This system introduces new features like Intersection Turning Assist and Emergency Steering Assist to enhance driver and passenger safety. Additionally, the All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control now includes Curve Speed Reduction for added security during various driving conditions.
Conclusion
The 2022 Lexus ES 350 Ultra Luxury is a practical yet luxurious option for those seeking a spacious and elegant sedan. With its attractive exterior, opulent interior, and enjoyable driving dynamics, the ES stands out as one of the best luxury sedans available for its price point in today’s market.
Starting MSRP: $50,130
As Tested
MSRP: $54,650