2007 Lexus ES350 Test Drive

The first time I drove a Mercedes E-Class, I thought it was the perfect sedan with everything I could want for comfortable day-to-day motoring. I feel the same way about the new-for-2007 Lexus ES350. This, the most understated of the Lexus family, offers virtually all the creature comforts one could ask for wrapped in a sensibly-sized front-wheel-drive package that's elegant but not flashy. At $33,865 base and $46,045 as tested, it's a heck of a deal. EPA estimated MPG: 21 city, 30 highway.

The ES has a unique position in the Lexus lineup. It's not sporty like the GS or IS, or big and stately like the LS. Calling it the entry-level Lexus doesn't do it justice, though. I've come to think of it as the pragmatic Lexus: Top-shelf comfort and amenities mated to ordinary mechanicals. The new-for-2007 ES350 is based on the new-for-2007 Toyota Camry. Lexus spent years trying to shake the ES' reputation as a glorified Camry -- but what's wrong with basing a luxury sedan on one of the best mid-size sedans built? The ES350's level of style and comfort puts it in an entirely different league than even the most expensive version of its Toyota-branded cousin. Sharing mechanical bits simply lowers the cost without the need to skimp on amenities.

The ES350's mission in life is to coddle its occupants. The experience starts before you put the key in the door. Actually, you don't have to put the key in the door, because the ES comes standard with a "Smart Access" proximity key, which stays in your pocket or purse. The ES senses your approach (actually, the key's approach) and greets you by turning on puddle lamps concealed under the side mirrors. Touch the door handle and the doors unlock. Once inside, step on the brake and push the on/off button and the engine starts.

Other standard equipment includes power-adjustable front seats and steering column, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming rear view mirror, 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, power moonroof, and lots of safety gear. Leather seats aren't standard, a notable omission, but it's still a great deal for under $34k.

Visibility is good, though the swoopy shape can make parking difficult; a $500 parking assist system puts that to right. My favorite option: Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. When activated, it automatically slows the car down to maintain a safe distance from the car in front.

I felt reassured by the ES350's standard electronic stability control, which helps the driver keep control in a sudden swerve. Antilock brakes, front-seat-mounted side airbags, and side curtain airbags are also standard. The rear seats have shoulder belts and LATCH child-seat anchors at all three positions, with seat-mounted torso airbags as options -- smart move, since they can pose a danger to children in non-compatible car seats.

The optional 14-speaker Mark Levinson stereo included a GPS-linked navigation system, 6-disc changer that reads audio DVDs, and even a cassette deck. In addition, the navigation system's screen doubles as a backup camera. Two features help drivers keep their eyes on the road: Voice activation, which allows you to program the nav system by speaking, and Bluetooth-compatibility which allows the stereo to act like a giant hands-free set for your cell phone.

With every option box ticked, my ES350 stickered for just over $46,000 -- $4500 less than a Mercedes-Benz E-Class. As with the base model, the fully-loaded ES350 is a great deal -- especially considering how well Lexus cars hold their value. If you're looking for high-end luxury and don't need to beat BMWs around the racetrack, the 2007 ES350 is a car you should definitely consider. -- Aaron Gold

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