What is the technology package on the 2014 Lexus ES 350?
The Technology Package on the 2014 Lexus ES 350 was an optional upgrade that bundled navigation, enhanced connectivity, and a higher-end audio experience. It was available on certain trims and configurations, not as standard equipment on all ES 350 models.
In this article, we break down what the package typically included, how it varied by market, and how to tell if a specific ES 350 has it. We also offer tips for buyers evaluating a used car from that year.
What the Technology Package typically includes
Below is a summary of the features commonly associated with the Technology Package in the U.S. market for the 2014 ES 350. Exact contents could vary by region and model year, so always verify with the window sticker or dealer documentation.
- Navigation system with an 8-inch display
- Lexus Enform with App Suite for apps and connected services
- Real-time traffic information and weather updates
- Voice-activated navigation and hands-free phone integration
- Upgraded audio system with more speakers (a higher-quality audio package); in some configurations, a premium Mark Levinson surround-sound setup could be offered as part of or alongside this package
The items listed above represent the core elements of the Technology Package, delivering navigation and enhanced connectivity alongside better audio quality.
Notes on availability and regional variations
Markets outside the United States sometimes offered different combinations or naming for this package. In many cases, the Technology Package was paired with the Navigation System option and could be bundled with other premium features. Always check the vehicle’s window sticker or build sheet for the exact contents on a given ES 350.
How to verify if a particular ES 350 has the Technology Package
If you’re shopping for a 2014 ES 350 and want to confirm the Technology Package, use these checks before you buy:
- Look for the navigation system hardware: an 8-inch display and built-in maps in the infotainment screen
- Confirm the presence of Lexus Enform with App Suite or App connectivity features on the system
- Check for real-time traffic and weather information availability through the infotainment system
- Check the audio system branding and capabilities (a higher-end audio setup, sometimes including a Mark Levinson badge in certain markets)
If you see these indicators on the car’s display and paperwork, the Technology Package is likely installed. If in doubt, ask the dealer for the original window sticker or a build sheet tied to the VIN.
Why it mattered for the 2014 ES 350
The Technology Package aimed to modernize the ES 350’s user experience by integrating navigation with real-time data and a more capable audio system, responding to buyers’ growing demand for connectivity and in-car entertainment in that era. For many buyers, it represented a meaningful upgrade over the base model’s standard features.
Summary
The 2014 Lexus ES 350’s Technology Package bundled an 8-inch navigation system, Lexus Enform connectivity with App Suite, real-time traffic and weather updates, voice controls, and an upgraded audio system (with some markets offering a Mark Levinson option). Availability varied by market and trim, so prospective buyers should verify the exact contents on the window sticker or build sheet for any specific vehicle.
What is the Lexus ES Tech package?
The Lexus ES technology package typically includes a 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen, Cloud Navigation with Intelligent Assistant, a Head-Up Display, and a SmartAccess Card Key. Depending on the year and trim level, it may also add other features like the Panoramic View Monitor and specific parking assists.
Key features of the technology package
- 12.3-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen: A larger infotainment screen that replaces the smaller standard one, providing access to navigation, media, climate controls, and vehicle settings.
- Cloud Navigation: Provides more accurate directions by accessing cloud-based data. It's part of a trial or subscription to Drive Connect.
- Intelligent Assistant: Allows you to control various vehicle functions using voice commands, like adjusting the temperature or changing the audio.
- Head-Up Display (HUD): Projects key information such as speed and navigation prompts onto the windshield in the driver's line of sight.
- SmartAccess Card Key: A credit card-sized key that allows you to lock and unlock the car.
- Panoramic View Monitor: Provides a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, displayed on the infotainment screen. It's often bundled with other technology or luxury packages.
- Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking and Rear Pedestrian Detection: Enhances the standard parking sensors by adding automatic braking to prevent collisions with obstacles or pedestrians while parking.
What are the different packages of Lexus ES 350?
Explore the pricing for all of your options among the 2025 Lexus ES trim levels below:
- ES 250 AWD: $43,215*
- ES 350: $43,215*
- ES 250 Luxury AWD: $48,385*
- ES 350 Luxury: $48,385*
- ES 250 Ultra Luxury AWD: $52,105*
- ES 350 Ultra Luxury: $52,105*
- ES 250 F Sport Design AWD: $47,800*
- ES 350 F Sport Design: $47,800*
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.
What are the common problems with the 2014 Lexus ES 350?
Common problems reported for the 2014 Lexus ES 350 include engine oil leaks, especially from the VVT-i oil line, and issues with the infotainment and navigation systems. Some owners have also experienced brakes acting up, including a "big red BRAKE" warning light, and problems with the ventilated seats.
Engine and powertrain
- Oil leaks: A known issue is the VVT-i oil line bursting, which can cause a massive oil leak.
- Sudden acceleration: Some drivers report an issue with the accelerator pedal, leading to sudden and jerky acceleration.
- Transmission issues: Although generally reliable, some owners have reported the transmission can be "clunky" or jerky, especially initially.
- Brake issues: There are reports of brake warnings, grinding noises, and potential brake failure.
- Catalytic converter failure: This can be caused by neglect and may lead to poor performance and check engine lights.
Electronics and interior
- Infotainment and navigation: Software is often reported as being out of date, and some users have experienced problems with the navigation and heater control displays.
- Ventilated seats: Some owners of 2013 and 2014 models have reported issues with the ventilated seats not working properly.
- Bluetooth problems: Some early models experienced Bluetooth connectivity issues.
Other potential problems
- Alignment/pulling: There are reports of the car pulling to one side and issues with alignment.
- Sunroof and frame rattle: Some owners have reported frame rattles around the sunroof mounting.
- Wind noise: Noise from the exterior mirrors can be noticeable at higher speeds.
