Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport, a vehicle that perfectly blends luxury with sporty performance. This isn't just your average sedan; it's a statement on wheels. We're going to cover everything from its stunning design and powerful engine to its tech-savvy interior and overall driving experience. So buckle up and let's get started!

    Overview of the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport

    The 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is the sporty variant of the Lexus ES lineup, known for its enhanced performance and aggressive styling. This model year brings a refreshed look and updated features, making it an even more compelling option in the luxury sedan market. Lexus has truly outdone itself in combining comfort, sophistication, and driving excitement in this package.

    Exterior Design

    First impressions matter, and the ES 350 F Sport certainly knows how to make one. The exterior is characterized by its bold spindle grille, a signature element of Lexus's F Sport design language. The mesh pattern and blacked-out accents give it a more aggressive and athletic stance compared to the standard ES models. The sharp lines and sculpted body panels contribute to its aerodynamic profile, not just for looks but for performance too. The F Sport also boasts a unique rear spoiler, which adds to its sporty appeal while improving stability at higher speeds. The LED headlights and taillights are not only visually striking but also provide excellent visibility, ensuring safety and style go hand in hand. Overall, the exterior design of the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is a masterclass in modern luxury aesthetics, blending elegance with a touch of sporty flair.

    Interior Design and Comfort

    Stepping inside, you're greeted by an interior that exudes luxury and comfort. The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including supple leather upholstery, brushed aluminum accents, and soft-touch surfaces. The F Sport seats are specially designed to provide enhanced bolstering, keeping you snug and secure during spirited driving. The attention to detail is evident in every stitch and panel, creating an ambiance of refined sophistication. The ergonomics are also top-notch, with all controls logically placed and easy to reach. The 2022 model features an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, making navigation and media control more intuitive than ever. The available panoramic sunroof adds an airy and open feel to the cabin, while the ambient lighting sets the mood for a relaxing drive. Whether you're embarking on a long road trip or just commuting to work, the interior of the ES 350 F Sport is designed to make every journey a pleasure. The combination of luxurious materials, thoughtful design, and advanced technology ensures that both the driver and passengers experience the pinnacle of automotive comfort.

    Performance and Handling

    Under the hood, the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport packs a punch with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 302 horsepower. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The F Sport variant also features a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances handling and provides a more engaging driving experience. This means you can confidently tackle winding roads and tight corners with precision and control. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system automatically adjusts the damping force based on road conditions and driving style, optimizing both ride comfort and handling performance. The F Sport's steering is also more precise and communicative compared to the standard ES models, giving you a better feel for the road. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport strike a perfect balance between sportiness and refinement, making it a standout in its class.

    Key Features and Specifications

    Let's get into the nitty-gritty details. The 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is packed with features that enhance both the driving experience and overall ownership. Here's a breakdown of some key specifications:

    Engine and Transmission

    The heart of the ES 350 F Sport is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. The combination provides ample power for acceleration and confident highway cruising. The engine's responsiveness is a key highlight, making the car feel lively and engaging in various driving situations. The transmission is also tuned to complement the engine's characteristics, ensuring optimal performance and fuel economy.

    Performance Metrics

    • Horsepower: 302 hp
    • Torque: 267 lb-ft
    • 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.6 seconds
    • Top Speed: 131 mph (electronically limited)
    • Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined

    These metrics highlight the ES 350 F Sport's capabilities. The 0-60 mph time is impressive for a luxury sedan, and the fuel economy figures are respectable for a V6 engine. This balance of performance and efficiency is one of the car's strong suits.

    Technology and Infotainment

    The technology in the 2022 ES 350 F Sport is cutting-edge, designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen display (typically 12.3 inches), which offers crisp graphics and intuitive controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. The navigation system is highly accurate and user-friendly, providing real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions. The Mark Levinson premium audio system is a standout feature, delivering exceptional sound quality for an immersive listening experience. Additional tech features include a head-up display, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports.

    Safety Features

    Safety is a top priority in the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies, including:

    • Lexus Safety System+ 2.5: This includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and all-speed dynamic radar cruise control.
    • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These systems help you stay aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
    • Intelligent High Beams: Automatically adjust high beam brightness to avoid blinding other drivers.
    • Ten Airbags: Provide comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision.
    • Backup Camera: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer.

    These safety features work together to provide a secure driving environment, giving you peace of mind on the road.

    Driving Experience

    So, what's it like to actually get behind the wheel of the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport? The driving experience is a blend of sporty engagement and luxurious comfort. The V6 engine delivers plenty of power, making acceleration smooth and effortless. The sport-tuned suspension and adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system provide excellent handling, allowing you to confidently tackle corners and winding roads. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road.

    Comfort and Refinement

    Despite its sporty nature, the ES 350 F Sport doesn't compromise on comfort. The cabin is quiet and refined, thanks to excellent sound insulation. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The ride quality is smooth, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling harsh. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system plays a key role in this, automatically adjusting the damping force to provide the optimal balance between comfort and handling.

    Sport Mode and Paddle Shifters

    For those who crave a more engaging driving experience, the F Sport offers a Sport mode that sharpens throttle response and adjusts the transmission shift points. This mode makes the car feel even more responsive and eager to accelerate. The paddle shifters allow you to manually control the gear changes, adding another layer of driver involvement. Whether you're cruising on the highway or tackling a twisty road, the ES 350 F Sport offers a driving experience that is both enjoyable and refined.

    Pros and Cons

    To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport.

    Pros

    • Sporty Performance: The 302-horsepower V6 engine and sport-tuned suspension deliver a thrilling driving experience.
    • Luxurious Interior: The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials and offers exceptional comfort.
    • Advanced Technology: The infotainment system and safety features are cutting-edge and user-friendly.
    • Reliability: Lexus is known for its reliability, and the ES 350 F Sport is no exception.
    • Distinctive Styling: The F Sport's aggressive design sets it apart from other luxury sedans.

    Cons

    • Infotainment System Interface: While the touchscreen is a welcome addition, some users may find the touchpad interface a bit clunky.
    • Rear Seat Space: While comfortable, the rear seat space isn't as generous as some competitors.
    • Fuel Economy: While respectable, the fuel economy isn't class-leading.

    Final Verdict

    The 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is a compelling choice in the luxury sedan market. It offers a winning combination of sporty performance, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology. The aggressive styling and enhanced handling make it a standout in the ES lineup. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a luxury sedan that's both fun to drive and refined, the ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.

    So, what do you guys think? Is the 2022 Lexus ES 350 F Sport the right car for you? Let us know in the comments below!