MotorMouths

The Lexus ES 350 delivers exactly what you would expect of a Lexus: It’s smooth, quiet, sophisticated, competent, and comfortable. Everything works the way it’s supposed to, the total experience is superb.

The 2010 Lexus ES 350 is a heavenly drive. It’s a lesson in learning how to conserve in all the right areas without compromising performance, style and modern technology conveniences.

Favoring luxury over outright performance, the ES 350 offers a coddling cabin and enough insulation from noise and vibration to please most anyone. Its engine is smooth and strong enough for a luxury-themed sedan with no sport-sedan pretenses.

I’m not sure that there’s an entry-level unit in the luxury segment that offers more refinement and polish for $41,950 than the sensible 2010 Lexus ES 350.

If you’re looking for a comfortable ride that will likely stand the test of time in both styling and mechanical reliability, the ES 350 is a good luxury sedan to shop.

We still see the ES as a competent competitor in the lazy lux segment, but it’s also clear that this Lexus is no longer the cream of the crop. Its cabin isn’t a class leader, its exterior styling is getting stale and perceived quality has ebbed.

The ES remains a relatively inexpensive, conservative choice for luxury buyers who don’t require a sporty chassis or V-8 power, or the cachet that is presumed to come with German luxury brands.

The Lexus ES 350 is quiet, comfortable and dependable. Driving enthusiasts may consider this car beneath their dignity but they seldom hesitate to recommend it to any friend or family member seeking a smart blend of value, prestige, and creature comforts.