The engine-transmission combo managed to achieve an average fuel economy of 11.8 L/100 km. Granted, I rarely got out of the city during my test week. Last year, a colleague of ours wound up with an average of 8.2 L/100 km at the end of his trip to the United States. Impressive.
There are sportier models in the Lexus lineup, but this one is proud to focus on ride comfort and smoothness. And it sure doesn't disappoint. The ES 350 moves along with disconcerting poise, soaking up bumps and potholes beautifully. What's more, the car delivers confident, powerful stops.
Classic styling
With a fairly high beltline, the windows are smallish, giving the impression that the interior is more compact than the Camry's.
Lexus family traits are obvious on the ES 350, like the bevelled brake lights and sharp nose. While it displays a certain sporty appearance, which I find interesting by the way, the car keeps a low profile and allows you to drive fast without generating too much attention.
Competition
The Lexus ES 350 carries a base price of $39,900 (following a recent $3,000 price drop). Various option packages can be added, but they make the bill skyrocket. If you want a navigation system, for instance, you have no other choice but to select the Premium Package at $8,100.
The Acura TL is similarly equipped at $42,700, although it's decidedly sportier. The Buick Allure Super offers a 300-hp V8 and retails for $38,765. Cadillac has the CTS at a base price of $38,900, but forget the Sport and Performance packages if you want the car to handle like the Lexus.
Flying under the radar, the Hyundai Azera Limited offers about the same level of luxury and a 263-hp V6 engine at $39,195. The Lincoln MKZ is barely more expensive at $39,499. Finally, the Mercedes-Benz C350 boasts a slightly smaller interior for $47,900, while the Saab 9-5 with 260-hp turbocharged engine costs $43,900.
Recap
I have nothing negative to write about the design and performance of the 2008 Lexus ES 350. This sedan is very much fun to drive when all you look for is a comfortable way to elope.
Sure, interior room is a tad limited, but you can say the same about many rivals. Personally, if I was going to shell out more than $40,000 for a premium sedan, I would seriously consider a larger car.
Remarkable fit and finish
Great performance
Ride comfort
Limited interior room
Expensive option packages
Driving position is difficult to find
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
There are sportier models in the Lexus lineup, but this one is proud to focus on ride comfort and smoothness. And it sure doesn't disappoint. The ES 350 moves along with disconcerting poise, soaking up bumps and potholes beautifully. What's more, the car delivers confident, powerful stops.
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| Passenger safety is enhanced by door-integrated protection beams, among others. |
Classic styling
With a fairly high beltline, the windows are smallish, giving the impression that the interior is more compact than the Camry's.
Lexus family traits are obvious on the ES 350, like the bevelled brake lights and sharp nose. While it displays a certain sporty appearance, which I find interesting by the way, the car keeps a low profile and allows you to drive fast without generating too much attention.
Competition
The Lexus ES 350 carries a base price of $39,900 (following a recent $3,000 price drop). Various option packages can be added, but they make the bill skyrocket. If you want a navigation system, for instance, you have no other choice but to select the Premium Package at $8,100.
The Acura TL is similarly equipped at $42,700, although it's decidedly sportier. The Buick Allure Super offers a 300-hp V8 and retails for $38,765. Cadillac has the CTS at a base price of $38,900, but forget the Sport and Performance packages if you want the car to handle like the Lexus.
Flying under the radar, the Hyundai Azera Limited offers about the same level of luxury and a 263-hp V6 engine at $39,195. The Lincoln MKZ is barely more expensive at $39,499. Finally, the Mercedes-Benz C350 boasts a slightly smaller interior for $47,900, while the Saab 9-5 with 260-hp turbocharged engine costs $43,900.
Recap
I have nothing negative to write about the design and performance of the 2008 Lexus ES 350. This sedan is very much fun to drive when all you look for is a comfortable way to elope.
Sure, interior room is a tad limited, but you can say the same about many rivals. Personally, if I was going to shell out more than $40,000 for a premium sedan, I would seriously consider a larger car.
 |
Great performance
Ride comfort
 |
Expensive option packages
Driving position is difficult to find
 |
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
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