2019 Lexus ES

We’ve long appreciated the comfort and sophistication of the Lexus ES mid-size luxury sedan, but wished there was a little more sport in the equation. Well Lexus listened, and now offers the all-new 2019 Lexus ES 350 in its performance-cued F Sport trim. That means a unique grille, 19-inch wheels, and trunk lid spoiler.

All ES 350s gets an upgrade of 34-horses, for the now 302-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. An all-new 8-speed automatic brings 2 more gears to the mix. And steering is more precise, with the Electric Power Steering assist motor now mounted on the rack itself.

Underneath is the new GA-K chassis… same as the Camry and Avalon. The stiffer structure underpins a longer, lower and wider ES. It’s still tuned for a luxury ride but F Sport models better soak up imperfections with an Adaptive Variable Suspension and its added drive modes.

STEPHANIE HART: It has a sportier driving dynamic and an aggressive look. The cabin is comfortable and it really makes me feel good being behind the wheel. It inspires confidence.

JOHN DAVIS: More insulation means the whisper quiet cabin is even more hushed. Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa are here too. Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is standard.

Most ES buyers are more interested in luxury treatment than a sporty style ride… but for those ones who are… the F Sport is quite a temptation. The 2019 Lexus ES 350 starts around $39,000…and should hit showrooms in September.