Do the back seats fold down in a Lexus ES 350?
Yes. The Lexus ES 350 has a 60/40-split folding rear seat that can lay flat to extend cargo space.
This article explains how the rear seats fold, what you can expect in typical model years, and practical tips for getting the most from the ES 350’s cargo area.
Rear-seat folding capability in the ES 350
The ES 350 offers a 60/40-split folding rear seat, meaning the left segment and the right segment can be folded down independently to create extra cargo space. The center seat remains usable for passengers. A fold-down center armrest is standard, but it does not convert the seating into a true three-way fold.
Below are the core points you should know about folding the rear seats in most recent ES 350 models. This section highlights the feature itself and how it typically works in everyday use.
- The rear bench is divided into two sections (left and right) that fold independently in a 60/40 split.
- Folding can be done from the top of the seatbacks in the cabin or via a release strap/lever in the trunk area, depending on model year.
- Lowering or adjusting the rear headrests may be required to achieve a completely flat cargo floor.
- When folded, the seatbacks create a longer, flatter loading surface for items like longer boxes, guitars, or skis.
- The center seat and seatbelt configuration remain as normal; the fold-down action does not convert the entire rear row into a single flat surface without using both sides.
Before you fold, understand what flexibility the split provides and where the release mechanisms are located.
In practice, these folding capabilities provide meaningful versatility for daily hauling and trips, while preserving comfortable seating for rear passengers when desired.
How to fold the rear seats in the ES 350
To fold the rear seats, use the release mechanisms located on the seatbacks or in the trunk. The following steps outline a typical process for recent ES 350 models.
- Move the front seats forward if needed to maximize space behind them.
- Lower the rear headrests if they obstruct folding, or adjust as required by your model year.
- Locate the release lever or strap on the top edge of the rear seatback (left or right, depending on which side you want folded).
- Pull the release to unlock the seatback, then push the seatback forward until it lies flat with the cargo floor.
- If folding the other side, repeat the process on the opposite seatback.
- Ensure the folded seatbacks are fully flat and secure before loading items.
Concluding note: The folding process is designed to be straightforward and quick, with most owners able to expand cargo space in just a few steps.
Model-year notes
Across recent generations of the ES 350 (roughly 2019 through 2024), the 60/40-split rear folding seat has remained a standard feature on most trims, with the release mechanisms evolving slightly between model years. Always check your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual or the interactive display for the exact location of the release levers and any year-specific steps.
Summary
In short, yes—the Lexus ES 350’s back seats fold down to provide additional cargo space. The standard 60/40-split design lets you fold one side or both sides, creating a flatter, longer loading area while keeping the center seat available for passengers. Operational details may vary by year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual for the exact release locations and steps for your specific model.
