The Lexus Es350

[k_nitin_r 8]

This year, our family saw a new car purchase. We have had a Toyota Avalon since 2000 and although the car still ran perfectly well, it was time for trading in our old car for a new one.We looked at Toyota's offerings, which were the new Toyota Avalon and the Toyota Aurion, and as the Toyota and Lexus cars share the same showroom space, we ventured into the Lexus display area and looked at the Lexus IS and Lexus ES as well. We finally made our decision to buy the Lexus ES350, which was the featured vehicle among the other Lexus vehicles at the showroom (it took the center spot). The vehicle is supposedly an upmarket choice compared to a Toyota Avalon because of its Lexus badging but it definitely was smaller than the Toyota Avalon 2000. The newer Toyota Avalons on sale, however, were the same size as the Lexus ES350 so it was apparent that Toyota shortened its platform for models sold after 2004 (or was it 2006?). The only vehicle the retained the long wheel base of the Toyota Avalon 2000 was the Lexus LS460 and the Lexus LS600hl.The Lexus ES350 is based on the Toyota Camry platform, unlike older Lexus models that were completely designed from ground-up. Although the perceived value of the Lexus ES350 among potential buyers does seem lower because of its similarity with the Toyota Camry, when you get into a Lexus ES350 it is a completely difference experience. The sound levels are much lower and the vehicle is equipped with more comfort and safety features. A rear-viewing camera helps in parking in those difficult spaces and the parktronic sensors alert you to obstacles nearby.The In-Car Entertainment features a 14-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with a 6-disc changer. The safety features prevent the use of the DVD player while the car is in motion and the bluetooth phone integration also refuses to display the phone number of the caller or allow you to dial out while driving but it does let you answer and hang up calls.For buyers who are considering the Lexus ES350, I can tell you from first hand experience that the car is built for comfort and has been equipped with all kinds of safety equipment and the sound system fails to disappoint. If you've got your heart set on the car, go order it and do share your views on the vehicle.