2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Review: Is It Worth It?
Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport. If you're wondering whether this luxury sedan lives up to the hype and if it's worth your hard-earned cash, you've come to the right place. We’re going to cover everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and technology, and of course, its overall value. So buckle up and let’s get started!
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport aims to blend luxury with a touch of sporty flair. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a respectable 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This power is delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifts. Now, let's talk about how this translates to the driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, allowing the ES 350 F Sport to go from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.6 seconds. While this isn't groundbreaking performance, it's more than adequate for daily driving and provides enough punch for confident highway merging and passing. The engine feels refined and delivers power in a linear fashion, making it easy to modulate and control.
Handling is where the F Sport trim aims to differentiate itself from the standard ES 350. It features a sport-tuned suspension, which includes firmer springs and dampers, designed to reduce body roll and improve overall agility. The result is a car that feels more planted and responsive in corners. The steering is precise and provides decent feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. However, it's important to note that the ES 350 F Sport is not a sports car. It's still a luxury sedan at heart, and its handling is more about providing a composed and confident driving experience rather than outright thrills. The ride quality is generally comfortable, although the sport-tuned suspension can feel a bit firm on rough roads. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport strike a good balance between luxury and sportiness, making it a compelling choice for those who want a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior design is modern and elegant, with high-quality materials used throughout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The F Sport trim adds unique touches like sport seats with enhanced bolstering, aluminum pedals, and a black headliner, giving the interior a more sporty and upscale feel. Space is abundant in both the front and rear seats, making it a great choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers. Rear passengers will appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys.
When it comes to technology, the ES 350 F Sport is well-equipped with a range of features designed to enhance convenience, entertainment, and safety. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, which is crisp, clear, and easy to navigate. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The ES 350 F Sport also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind on the road. Other notable tech features include a premium sound system, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof. Overall, the interior comfort and technology of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport are top-notch, providing a luxurious and convenient driving experience.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport boasts a striking exterior design that blends elegance with a touch of aggression. The signature Lexus spindle grille dominates the front fascia, giving the car a bold and distinctive look. The F Sport trim adds unique styling elements such as a rear spoiler, a blacked-out grille, and unique alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. The overall silhouette of the ES 350 is sleek and aerodynamic, with smooth lines and a coupe-like roofline. The LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modernity and sophistication to the design. One of the standout features of the ES 350 F Sport is its attention to detail. The panel gaps are tight and consistent, and the paint quality is excellent. The car looks and feels well-built, reflecting Lexus's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
From a styling perspective, the ES 350 F Sport strikes a good balance between luxury and sportiness. It's not as overtly aggressive as some of its rivals, but it has enough visual flair to stand out from the crowd. The F Sport trim adds just the right amount of sporty accents without compromising the car's overall elegance. Whether you're cruising down the highway or parked in front of a fancy restaurant, the ES 350 F Sport is sure to turn heads. The exterior design and styling of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport are a testament to Lexus's design prowess, creating a car that is both beautiful and functional.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
For many prospective buyers, fuel economy is a crucial factor when considering a new car. The 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport delivers respectable fuel economy for its class, with EPA ratings of 22 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. These figures are competitive with other V6-powered luxury sedans and should help keep your running costs in check. Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving style and conditions. If you have a heavy foot or do a lot of city driving, you can expect to see lower numbers. However, if you're gentle on the throttle and do mostly highway driving, you should be able to achieve or even exceed the EPA ratings.
In addition to fuel costs, it's also important to consider other running costs such as maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. Lexus has a reputation for reliability, which should translate to lower maintenance costs over the long term. The ES 350 F Sport also comes with a comprehensive warranty, providing added peace of mind. Insurance costs will vary depending on your location, driving record, and coverage levels. However, the ES 350 F Sport is generally considered to be a safe car, which could help keep your insurance premiums down. Depreciation is another factor to consider, as all cars lose value over time. However, Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value relatively well, which could save you money in the long run. Overall, the fuel economy and running costs of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport are reasonable for its class, making it a financially sound choice for those who want a luxurious and reliable sedan.
Overall Value and Verdict
So, is the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport worth it? After considering its performance, interior comfort, technology, exterior design, and running costs, the answer is a resounding yes. The ES 350 F Sport offers a compelling blend of luxury, sportiness, and reliability, making it a standout choice in the crowded luxury sedan segment. It's not the sportiest or most powerful car in its class, but it excels at providing a comfortable, refined, and engaging driving experience.
The interior is a standout feature, with its high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and abundant space. The technology is also top-notch, with a user-friendly infotainment system and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. The exterior design is elegant and eye-catching, with the F Sport trim adding just the right amount of sporty flair. And with its reputation for reliability and reasonable running costs, the ES 350 F Sport should provide years of trouble-free ownership. Of course, the ES 350 F Sport is not without its drawbacks. The sport-tuned suspension can feel a bit firm on rough roads, and the infotainment system can take some getting used to. However, these are minor issues that are easily overlooked in light of the car's many strengths. In conclusion, if you're in the market for a luxury sedan that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, technology, and value, the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that you can enjoy driving every day, and one that will make you feel proud to own.
Pros and Cons
To give you a quick overview, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport:
Pros:
- Smooth and Responsive Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 provides ample power for daily driving.
- Sport-Tuned Suspension: Offers enhanced handling and reduced body roll.
- Luxurious Interior: High-quality materials and comfortable seats.
- Advanced Technology: User-friendly infotainment system and safety features.
- Elegant Exterior Design: Striking and sporty appearance.
- Reputation for Reliability: Lower maintenance costs and comprehensive warranty.
Cons:
- Firm Ride: Sport-tuned suspension can be harsh on rough roads.
- Infotainment Learning Curve: The system may take some time to master.
- Not a True Sports Car: Handling is more about comfort than outright thrills.
Alternatives to Consider
If the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport isn't quite what you're looking for, here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Acura TLX: Offers a sportier driving experience and more aggressive styling.
- BMW 3 Series: A benchmark for sporty handling and performance.
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class: A luxurious and refined sedan with a wide range of features.
- Audi A4: A stylish and technologically advanced sedan with available all-wheel drive.
- Genesis G70: A value-packed luxury sedan with a sporty driving experience.
Final Thoughts
Alright, guys, that wraps up our review of the 2024 Lexus ES 350 F Sport. Hopefully, this has given you a comprehensive overview of what this luxury sedan has to offer. Whether you're looking for a comfortable daily driver or a stylish weekend cruiser, the ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth a look. Thanks for reading, and happy driving!