Let's dive into the details of the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport, focusing particularly on its 0-60 mph time and overall performance. If you're considering this car, understanding its acceleration and what makes the F Sport trim special is super important. The Lexus ES 350 has always been known for its comfort, reliability, and smooth ride, but the F Sport version adds a dash of sportiness to the mix. So, how quick is it really, and what can you expect behind the wheel?

Performance and Acceleration

The 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a solid 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Now, let’s get to the number you're really interested in: the 0-60 mph time. The 2018 ES 350 F Sport clocks in at around 6.6 seconds. While this isn't sports car territory, it’s definitely respectable for a luxury sedan in its class. The engine provides ample power for daily driving and merging onto highways, making it a practical yet enjoyable choice.

What contributes to this acceleration? The engine's responsiveness plays a huge role. The V6 offers a smooth and linear power delivery, meaning you get consistent acceleration throughout the rev range. The eight-speed transmission also helps, offering quick and seamless shifts that keep the engine in its optimal power band. Moreover, the F Sport trim includes a sport-tuned suspension, which reduces body roll and improves handling, giving you more confidence when accelerating and cornering. All these factors combined to deliver a satisfying driving experience that balances performance with comfort.

Furthermore, the F Sport isn't just about straight-line speed. It also offers different driving modes that allow you to tailor the car's performance to your preferences. The Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and adjusts the transmission shift points for more aggressive acceleration. This can be particularly useful when you need to make a quick pass or want a more engaging driving experience. Overall, the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport provides a well-rounded performance that is both practical and fun.

F Sport Features and Design

The F Sport variant of the 2018 Lexus ES 350 isn't just about a slight bump in performance; it also brings a host of aesthetic and functional upgrades that set it apart from the standard model. These enhancements contribute to a sportier driving experience and a more aggressive appearance.

• Exterior Design: The F Sport features a distinctive mesh grille that replaces the standard horizontal slats, giving the front end a more aggressive and dynamic look. It also includes a rear spoiler, unique F Sport badging, and specific alloy wheel designs. These visual cues immediately signal that this isn't your average ES 350.
• Interior Design: Inside, the F Sport continues the sporty theme with aluminum pedals, a black headliner, and unique interior trim options. The seats are also more bolstered, providing better support during spirited driving. The steering wheel is another standout feature, offering a thicker grip and paddle shifters for more control over the transmission.
• Sport-Tuned Suspension: One of the most significant upgrades is the sport-tuned suspension. This enhances handling by reducing body roll and improving overall stability. The result is a more engaging and confident driving experience, especially on winding roads.
• Performance-Inspired Instruments: The F Sport also includes unique instrumentation, such as a digital gauge cluster that can display performance data like G-forces and lap times. This adds a touch of sportiness to the interior and provides useful information for those who enjoy pushing their car a bit harder.

These features combine to create a vehicle that not only looks sportier but also feels more engaging to drive. The F Sport enhancements make the 2018 Lexus ES 350 a compelling option for those who want a luxury sedan with a bit of an edge.

Driving Experience

When you get behind the wheel of the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport, you'll immediately notice the blend of luxury and sportiness. The ride is smooth and comfortable, as you'd expect from a Lexus, but the F Sport tweaks add a layer of engagement that's often missing in the standard ES 350. The sport-tuned suspension does a great job of minimizing body roll, making the car feel more planted in corners. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. These improvements make the F Sport more enjoyable to drive, whether you're commuting to work or tackling a twisty back road.

The engine's responsiveness is another highlight. The V6 provides plenty of power for effortless acceleration, and the eight-speed transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. In Sport mode, the throttle response is sharpened, and the transmission holds gears longer, allowing you to extract the most performance from the engine. This makes the car feel more alive and eager to accelerate. However, even in the standard driving mode, the ES 350 F Sport offers a refined and comfortable driving experience.

Interior comfort is another area where the ES 350 F Sport shines. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them ideal for long drives. The cabin is also incredibly quiet, thanks to Lexus's attention to sound insulation. All the materials feel premium to the touch, further enhancing the sense of luxury. The infotainment system is easy to use, with a large display and intuitive controls. Overall, the driving experience is a balanced combination of comfort, performance, and refinement.

Technology and Features

The 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is packed with technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience. From advanced safety systems to cutting-edge infotainment, this car has a lot to offer. Here's a closer look at some of the key tech features:

• Lexus Safety System+: This suite of safety features includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These features help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid collisions. The blind spot monitor alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, while the rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up.
• Navigation System: The ES 350 F Sport offers an optional navigation system with a large display and intuitive interface. It provides real-time traffic updates and can help you find the best route to your destination.
• Mark Levinson Premium Audio System: For audiophiles, the ES 350 F Sport offers an available Mark Levinson premium audio system with 17 speakers and 835 watts of power. This system delivers exceptional sound quality and creates an immersive listening experience.
• Remote Touch Interface: The infotainment system is controlled by Lexus's Remote Touch interface, which uses a touchpad to navigate menus and select options. While it may take some getting used to, the Remote Touch interface is generally responsive and easy to use.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: The 2018 model may not have included Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard, but these features can often be added via aftermarket solutions or were included in later model years. Check with your dealer for compatibility.

These technology features make the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport a modern and well-equipped luxury sedan. They enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment, making every drive more enjoyable.

Reliability and Maintenance

One of the standout qualities of the Lexus ES 350, including the F Sport trim, is its reliability. Lexus has consistently ranked high in reliability surveys, and the ES 350 is known for its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is a proven workhorse that is both durable and efficient. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, is typically all that's needed to keep the ES 350 running smoothly for many years.

Lexus also offers a comprehensive warranty that covers the ES 350 for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain is covered for six years or 70,000 miles. This warranty provides peace of mind and helps protect against unexpected repair costs. Additionally, Lexus dealers are known for their excellent customer service, making the ownership experience even more pleasant.

Maintenance costs for the ES 350 are generally reasonable, especially compared to other luxury brands. Parts are readily available, and the car is relatively easy to work on. However, it's always a good idea to have your ES 350 serviced by a certified Lexus technician to ensure that all maintenance is performed correctly and to maintain the car's value.

Is the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Right for You?

So, is the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport the right car for you? It really depends on your priorities and what you're looking for in a luxury sedan. If you value comfort, reliability, and a smooth ride, the ES 350 F Sport is an excellent choice. The F Sport trim adds a touch of sportiness and visual flair, making it more appealing to those who want a bit of excitement in their daily drive. However, if you're primarily focused on performance and want a true sports sedan, there may be better options available.

The ES 350 F Sport is also a great choice if you appreciate advanced technology and safety features. The Lexus Safety System+ provides a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies that can help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the available Mark Levinson audio system delivers exceptional sound quality.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2018 Lexus ES 350 F Sport is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel and experience the car for yourself. See how it feels on the road, and evaluate whether it meets your needs and preferences. If you're looking for a well-rounded luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and technology, the ES 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.