The 2013 Lexus ES350 has undergone a complete redesign for its launch. This is the first redesign since the ES350 was first released in 2007. It has been revamped inside and out, and has grown in both width and length over the previous model.
Behind the Lexus RX SUV, the ES350 midsize sedan is the company’s second bestseller in its model lineup. The 2013 Lexus ES350 will appeal to those drivers looking for a sedan that provides a quiet and comfortable ride, a cabin filled with luxury amenities, and a strong reliability record.
New For 2013
The 2013 Lexus ES350 is all-new for the 2013 launch. Changes of note for this new model of the midsize sedan include:
- A longer and wider wheelbase
- Updated exterior styling, including a new front grille and fresh sheet metal
- Upgraded interior materials
- An increased list of amenities included as standard
- Better fuel economy
Exterior
From the front of the 2013 Lexus ES350, it is easy to see that this is a new generation of the midsize sedan. The front grille has been replaced with the new signature spindle grille that Lexus is using for the front of all of its newly redesigned vehicles. The new redesign also results in an overall gain in length of one inch with a gain of about 1.8 inches in length of the wheelbase.
From the side and rear, the shape of the 2013 Lexus EX350 has also changed. Flared fenders have been added to the side of the sedan, a spoiler has been added to the lid of the trunk, and the rear bumper has been revised. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard, while 18-inch wheels are available.
Interior & Cargo
While the changes to the exterior of the 2013 Lexus ES350 may not seem significant, the interior has been completely redesigned. Legroom in the back seat is improved due to the increase in length of the wheelbase and sedan. The redesign of the dash leads to an increased spaciousness in the front seats as well, due to the corners being pushed out. Previously, the interior of the ES350 appeared dated, but the redesign has included better materials and a modern design that is much more appealing.
Only one trim level is available for the 2013 Lexus ES350, and standard features include a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone climate control system, ten-way power front seats with power lumbar, a power moon roof that tilts and slides, an eight-speaker CD/MP3 stereo system with Sirius satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. A navigation system and leather upholstery are available as options.
Safety
Standard safety features for the 2013 Lexus ES350 are anti-lock brakes, an electronic stability system, traction control, brake assist, and ten airbags, including side-impact airbags for the front and rear seats and a driver’s knee airbag. Adaptive cruise control, a lane departure system, a rearview camera, and a blind-spot warning system are all safety options.
Driving Experience
Under the hood, the 2013 Lexus ES350 is powered by a 3.5-liter, V-6 engine that provides 268 horsepower (hp) and 248 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. The fuel economy for this front-wheel-drive sedan has been improved through the use of new, lower-friction materials within the powertrain components. The EPA rating for the 2013 Lexus ES350 is 21/31 mpg city/highway.
Although the 2013 Lexus ES350 has undergone a redesign, it drives in much the same manner as previous models. This is a sedan that is known for its soft, comfortable, and very quiet ride, which is preserved in this latest model. Acceleration is swift from a stop and while traveling at speed on the highway, and it allows for passing and maneuvering comfortably at speed.
The 2013 Lexus ES350 is now equipped with a new dial above the shift knob that allows the driver to set the car driving mode to Normal, Sport, or Eco. The setting chosen determines the amount of power supplied, as well as the fuel efficiency of the sedan. Even when set to the Sport mode, the performance is still relatively soft in comparison to other cars within its class.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Lexus ES350
- 2013 Acura TL
- 2013 BMW 328i
- 2013 Lincoln MKZ
- 2013 Cadillac XTS
- 2013 Infiniti G37