The 2022 Lexus ES 350L stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to luxury, refinement, and accessible premium motoring. As the long-wheelbase variant of the ES series, this sedan is designed specifically to cater to passengers in the rear seats, offering an environment of serene comfort that rivals the best in the executive class. With its bold spindle grille and meticulously crafted interior, the 2022 model year presents a mature evolution of a proven formula, blending timeless design with the latest in safety and infotainment technology.
Design and Exterior Presence
At first glance, the 2022 Lexus ES 350L commands attention with its distinctive styling. The signature spindle grille, a bold centerpiece flanked by sleek LED headlights, creates an imposing yet elegant front fascia that sets the vehicle apart in any traffic. The design language is cohesive, flowing seamlessly to the sculpted hood and defined wheel arches, resulting in a silhouette that is both athletic and sophisticated. Available in a range of premium colors, the sedan maintains the athletic stance of its standard-wheelbase sibling while adding a touch of drama with its panoramic moonroof and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Interior Comfort and Luxury
Where the 2022 ES 350L truly shines is in its cabin, a sanctuary meticulously crafted for rear-seat passengers. The extended wheelbase grants additional legroom, allowing occupants to stretch out in unparalleled comfort. Premium materials are ubiquitous, from the supple, soft-touch leatherette upholstery to the meticulously finished wood trim and metal accents. The ambient lighting system casts a gentle glow across the cabin, enhancing the sense of space and creating a relaxing atmosphere during evening drives. The front seats are bolstered for the driver, ensuring that the journey is comfortable for all occupants, while the rear bench offers a level of plushness that is rarely seen in this segment.
Technology and Infotainment
Sitting above the dashboard is the pièce de résistance of the interior: a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This intuitive interface runs Lexus’s latest software, providing seamless access to navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system’s responsiveness is impressive, and the graphics are crisp and clear. Premium JBL audio enthusiasts are catered to with an available 14-speaker system that fills the cabin with rich, clear sound. The digital climate control is thoughtfully placed within easy reach of the rear passengers, allowing them to fine-tune their personal environment without needing to stretch or lean forward.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powering the 2022 ES 350L is a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, a unit that has been a staple of the Lexus lineup for years. This naturally aspirated powertrain produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. The result is effortless acceleration and a linear power delivery that makes merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles a stress-free experience. While not a sports sedan, the ES 350L prioritizes a composed and quiet ride, with the adaptive variable suspension (AVS) available on higher trims damping out road imperfections with impressive grace, ensuring that the journey is as smooth as the destination is stylish.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is deeply integrated into the fabric of the 2022 ES 350L, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The suite of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is standard across the range, acting as an vigilant co-pilot. This comprehensive system includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and lane tracing assist that helps keep the sedan centered in its lane. For those who opt for the AVS suspension, the inclusion of a rear-wheel steering system further enhances stability and maneuverability, particularly at lower speeds, making parking in tight spaces considerably easier.
