Does the Lexus ES 350 have heated seats?

The Lexus ES 350 generally offers heated front seats in most recent model years; they are standard on higher trims and can be an option on base models depending on the market. This article explains how heated seating is packaged across trims and how to use it.

Heated seating is a common comfort feature in the ES 350. Availability varies by trim level, model year, and region. In the United States, higher trims such as Premium, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury typically include heated front seats, while lower or base configurations may require an optional Climate or Comfort package. Always verify the exact features on the specific vehicle you’re considering, via the window sticker or a dealer.

Availability by trim (typical US configurations in recent years)

The following reflects typical configurations for the ES 350 in the U.S. market in recent model years; variations exist by year and region.

• Base ES 350: Heated front seats are usually not standard on the base model and may be available only with an optional package or upgrade, depending on the year.


• ES 350 Premium: Heated front seats are typically standard equipment.


• ES 350 Luxury: Heated front seats are standard, often with memory settings for the driver’s seat.


• ES 350 Ultra Luxury: Heated front seats are standard, and higher trims may also offer options like ventilated seats depending on the model year.

These patterns illustrate typical packaging, but specifics can vary by year and market. Always confirm the exact features for the model you’re considering.

How to use heated seats and what to expect

If your ES 350 is equipped with heated seats, you can activate them using the vehicle’s climate/seat controls. The following steps describe common operation across recent model years:

• Activate and select level: Locate the heated-seat control (a seat icon with wavy lines) on the center stack near the climate controls. Press the button to cycle through heat levels (typically Low, Medium, High) and stop at your preferred setting.


• Check for feedback: In most models, you’ll feel warmth within a few seconds, and a dashboard or instrument cluster indicator may show the active heat level.


• Notes by year/market: In some markets or older model years, seat heating may be bundled with other comfort features, and control placement can vary slightly.

In practice, heated seats warm up quickly on cold days and are a convenient, widely used comfort feature on the ES 350, especially in cooler climates or during winter months.

Summary

Yes—heated seats are a common feature on the Lexus ES 350. They are typically standard on higher trims and available on base models through optional packages, with exact availability varying by trim, year, and market. The controls are generally straightforward: a seat-with-waves icon on the center console to select among multiple heat levels. Always check the specific vehicle’s features with the dealer or window sticker to confirm current configuration.

Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?

No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
 

• Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine. 
• Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry. 
• Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning. 

What year to stay away from Lexus ES 350?

You should avoid the 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Lexus ES 350 models due to common issues like melting dashboards, engine/transmission problems, and other mechanical failures. While some later years also have specific reported problems, such as a hollow door design on some 2019 models that causes noise, the 2007-2015 period contains the most widely cited issues.
 
Years to avoid and common problems

• 2007–2009: Prone to oil leaks, engine issues like blown head gaskets, and AC problems from a defective evaporator core. The 2007 model is particularly known for its melting dashboard. Transmission problems like rough shifting and hesitations are also common. 
• 2011: Has a high number of complaints for various problems, including engine and transmission issues, as well as other mechanical failures. 
• 2013–2015: Reportedly have issues with exploding sunroofs, engine stalls when turning, and door lock malfunctions. Some of these years also saw problems with ventilated seats and powertrain fluid leaks. 
• 2019: Some owners reported that the doors feel hollow and let in a lot of road noise, a problem that was reportedly fixed around the 2020-2021 model years. 

Years that are generally considered more reliable

• 2012: Often mentioned as a good year to buy. 
• 2017–2019: Generally considered reliable with modern features. 
• 2020 and later: The years following the 2019 model year are generally considered more reliable, with some specific minor issues such as the hollow doors on 2019 models being addressed in later models. 

Does the Lexus ES 350 have heated seats?

2021 ES 350 Interior Options & Amenities
A memory function is also available, so you can save your settings. To help you cool off or warm up, both heated and ventilated front seats are also available. You'll even have the freedom to customize the mood for your drive with configurable ambient interior lighting.

What is the difference between ES 350 base and luxury?

The main differences between the Lexus ES 350 Base and Luxury trims are the interior comfort and materials, exterior wheel size, and added features, while both models share the same powertrain and performance. The Luxury trim adds upgrades like quilted leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, wood trim, and larger 18-inch wheels, compared to the Base's standard features and 17-inch wheels. 
This video compares the exterior and interior differences between the base and ultra luxury models: 34sKenny VacekYouTube · Apr 21, 2021
Lexus ES 350 Base

• Wheels: 17-inch alloy wheels 
• Interior: Standard features include a 8.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Pioneer audio system. 
• Performance: Standard engine and transmission provide quick and responsive performance. 
• Safety: Comes with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 suite of safety technologies. 

This video compares the exterior and interior differences between the base and ultra luxury models: 59sKenny VacekYouTube · May 5, 2020
Lexus ES 350 Luxury

• Wheels: Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels for a more commanding presence. 
• Interior: Includes all base features, plus quilted leather upholstery, wood interior trim, heated and ventilated front seats, and ambient interior lighting. 
• Performance: Includes the same engine as the base, but may have performance-tuned shocks for more athletic handling. 
• Additional Features: Comes with extras such as a wireless phone charger and front/rear parking sensors. 
• Comfort: Offers a higher level of comfort with features like a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a power rear sunshade. 

This video compares the exterior and interior differences between the base and ultra luxury models: 59sKenny VacekYouTube · Oct 24, 2020
Which should you choose?

• Choose the Base model if you want a stylish, well-equipped luxury sedan at a lower price point and don't require the premium interior and comfort features of the higher trim. 
• Choose the Luxury model if you prefer more premium features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, wood trim, and are willing to pay more for the enhanced comfort and upscale design.