Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Lexus ES 350 F Sport. If you're thinking about getting a new luxury sedan, you've probably got a ton of questions. Is it sporty enough? Is it comfortable? Is it worth the extra cash? Well, buckle up because we're going to break it all down in this review. We'll be covering everything from the performance and handling to the interior comfort and technology, plus a good ol' look at the styling and how it stacks up against the competition. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of whether the ES 350 F Sport deserves a spot in your garage. So, let's get started!

Performance and Handling: Does the F Sport Live Up to the Name?

When you see the "F Sport" badge on a Lexus, you naturally expect a boost in performance and a more engaging driving experience. So, let's dig into whether the Lexus ES 350 F Sport truly delivers on that promise. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a healthy 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Now, those are respectable numbers, and they translate to brisk acceleration. The ES 350 F Sport can zip from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.6 seconds, which is certainly quick enough for everyday driving and merging onto the highway. But the F Sport isn't just about straight-line speed; it's also about how the car handles itself in the corners. Lexus has equipped the F Sport with a sport-tuned suspension, which includes firmer springs and dampers. This helps to reduce body roll and improve overall handling. The steering is also a bit more responsive in the F Sport compared to the standard ES 350, giving you a better feel for the road. While the changes are noticeable, it's important to remember that the ES 350 F Sport is still, at its heart, a comfortable luxury sedan. It's not going to feel like a sports car, and that's okay. It strikes a nice balance between sporty handling and a smooth, comfortable ride. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, and it offers paddle shifters for those times when you want to take control of the gear changes yourself. Overall, the performance and handling of the ES 350 F Sport are impressive. It's not a fire-breathing sports sedan, but it offers a noticeable step up in driving enjoyment compared to the standard ES 350. The engine is strong, the handling is precise, and the ride is still comfortable enough for long road trips. If you're looking for a luxury sedan that's fun to drive without sacrificing comfort, the ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. We'll dive deeper into specific driving situations and comparisons later on, but for now, let's just say that the F Sport badge isn't just for show – it actually means something in terms of performance.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Luxurious and Tech-Savvy Cabin?

Okay, guys, let's step inside the Lexus ES 350 F Sport and see what it has to offer in terms of interior comfort and technology. After all, a luxury sedan should feel, well, luxurious! And in this department, the ES 350 F Sport definitely delivers. The cabin is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials, including supple leather, soft-touch surfaces, and elegant trim pieces. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering plenty of support for long drives. The F Sport models come with unique sport seats that are more heavily bolstered, which helps to keep you in place during spirited driving. You'll also find plenty of legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, making the ES 350 F Sport a great choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers. Now, let's talk technology. The ES 350 F Sport comes standard with a generous array of tech features, including a large infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced safety features. The infotainment system is controlled by a touchpad interface, which some people find a bit tricky to use at first. However, once you get the hang of it, it becomes fairly intuitive. The display is sharp and clear, and the system is responsive. The available Mark Levinson premium sound system is a standout feature, delivering crystal-clear audio quality that will impress even the most discerning audiophiles. And when it comes to safety, the ES 350 F Sport has you covered. It comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and make your driving experience safer and more relaxed. Overall, the interior of the ES 350 F Sport is a fantastic place to be. It's comfortable, luxurious, and packed with technology. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country road trip, you'll appreciate the well-designed cabin and the abundance of features. Of course, there are always areas for improvement, and we'll touch on some of those later in the review. But for now, let's just say that Lexus has done a great job of creating a comfortable and tech-savvy environment in the ES 350 F Sport.

Styling: Does the F Sport Stand Out from the Crowd?

Let's be real, guys: looks matter! Especially when you're talking about a luxury sedan. So, how does the Lexus ES 350 F Sport stack up in the styling department? Well, the F Sport trim definitely gives the ES 350 a more aggressive and sporty appearance compared to the standard model. The most noticeable difference is the unique F Sport grille, which features a black mesh pattern and a more prominent Lexus emblem. This grille gives the car a bolder and more distinctive front end. The F Sport also gets a rear spoiler, unique alloy wheels, and subtle badging that sets it apart from the rest of the ES lineup. These exterior touches give the ES 350 F Sport a more athletic and dynamic look, which is in line with its sporty driving character. But it's not just the F Sport-specific details that make the ES 350 a stylish car. The overall design of the ES is sleek and modern, with a long wheelbase and a low-slung roofline. The sharp lines and sculpted surfaces give the car a sense of elegance and sophistication. Inside, the F Sport styling continues with unique interior trim, sport seats, and aluminum pedals. These details add a touch of sportiness to the cabin without sacrificing the overall luxurious feel. Of course, styling is subjective, and what one person finds attractive, another might not. But in my opinion, the ES 350 F Sport is a handsome car. It strikes a good balance between sporty and elegant, and it has a presence on the road that's hard to ignore. Compared to some of its competitors, the ES 350 F Sport has a more distinctive and eye-catching design. It's not afraid to stand out from the crowd, and that's something that I appreciate. We'll compare the styling to specific competitors later on, but for now, let's just say that the ES 350 F Sport is a stylish and attractive luxury sedan that's sure to turn heads. The designers at Lexus have done a great job of creating a car that looks both sporty and sophisticated, and the F Sport trim level only enhances those qualities.

How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?

Alright, guys, let's get down to brass tacks. How does the Lexus ES 350 F Sport really stack up against its rivals in the ultra-competitive luxury sedan segment? This is where things get interesting because there are some serious contenders vying for your attention and your hard-earned dollars. We're talking about cars like the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the Audi A4, and the Acura TLX, just to name a few. Each of these cars brings its own strengths and weaknesses to the table, so let's see where the ES 350 F Sport fits into the mix. In terms of performance, the ES 350 F Sport holds its own against most of its competitors. The 302-horsepower V6 engine provides plenty of power for everyday driving, and the sport-tuned suspension delivers surprisingly sharp handling. However, some rivals, like the BMW 3 Series, offer even more engaging driving dynamics. The ES 350 F Sport prioritizes comfort, making it a fantastic choice for long cruises. When it comes to interior quality and technology, the ES 350 F Sport is definitely a standout. The cabin is beautifully crafted with premium materials, and the tech features are plentiful and user-friendly (although the touchpad interface can take some getting used to). The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 offer similarly luxurious interiors, but the Lexus has a reputation for reliability that's hard to beat. From a styling perspective, the ES 350 F Sport has a more distinctive and eye-catching design than some of its more conservatively styled competitors. The bold front grille and sleek silhouette help it stand out from the crowd. However, styling is subjective, and some people may prefer the more understated elegance of the BMW or Mercedes-Benz. When it comes to value for money, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport is a strong contender. It offers a lot of features and performance for the price, and it typically costs less than its German rivals. Plus, Lexus has a stellar reputation for reliability and resale value, which can save you money in the long run. Ultimately, the best car for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, reliability, and value, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport is an excellent choice. But if you're looking for the ultimate in driving performance or brand prestige, you may want to consider other options. We'll dive deeper into specific comparisons in the next section, but for now, let's just say that the ES 350 F Sport is a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment.

The Verdict: Is the Lexus ES 350 F Sport Worth It?

So, guys, we've reached the moment of truth. After a thorough examination of its performance, comfort, technology, styling, and competition, the big question remains: Is the Lexus ES 350 F Sport worth it? Well, the answer, as with most things in life, is it depends. But let's break it down to help you decide if this luxury sedan deserves a spot on your shortlist. The Lexus ES 350 F Sport definitely shines in several key areas. First and foremost, it offers a fantastic blend of comfort and sportiness. The ride is smooth and refined, making it a great choice for long commutes and road trips, but the sport-tuned suspension and responsive engine also make it fun to drive on twisty roads. The interior is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials, and the technology features are plentiful and user-friendly. The styling is bold and distinctive, helping the ES 350 F Sport stand out from the crowd. And perhaps most importantly, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport offers exceptional value for money. It's typically priced lower than its German rivals, and it boasts Lexus's legendary reliability and strong resale value. However, the ES 350 F Sport isn't perfect. Some drivers may find the touchpad infotainment interface a bit frustrating, and the handling isn't quite as sharp as some of its sportier competitors. But these are relatively minor drawbacks, and they're easily outweighed by the car's many strengths. So, who is the Lexus ES 350 F Sport for? I'd say it's an excellent choice for anyone who wants a comfortable, luxurious, and reliable sedan that's also fun to drive. It's a great option for families, commuters, and anyone who appreciates a well-rounded vehicle. If you prioritize driving dynamics above all else, you may want to consider a BMW 3 Series or an Acura TLX. But if you're looking for a luxury sedan that offers a winning combination of comfort, performance, value, and reliability, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth a look. In conclusion, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport is a compelling option in the luxury sedan segment. It's a car that does a lot of things well, and it represents a smart choice for discerning buyers. So, go ahead and test drive one – you might just be surprised at how much you like it!