The 2011 Lexus ES 350 is an entry-level luxury sedan that carries the 3.5-liter V6 engine for which it's named. While it may be the least sporting option in its class, Lexus has succeeded with its bet that the people who want the ES 350 aren't particularly concerned about handling.

The 2011 ES 350 is based on the Toyota Camry platform, a stalwart in the midsize sedan segment, so its driving feel mimics the appliance-like feel of the Camry, according to several reviewers. The V6 engine provides acceleration numbers of 7 seconds to get from 0 to 60, with a 19/27 mpg city/highway rating.

One of the bigger advantages for some customers, considering its economy, is that the 2011 Lexus ES 350 can run on regular fuel without impacting power numbers too severely. This has the effect of saving a fair amount of money.

With those savings, prospective buyers can focus on the ES 350's extensive list of options. Standard fare for the base 2011 Lexus ES 350 includes heated mirrors, a sunroof, automatic wipers, dual-zone climate control, and 10-way front seats with driver memory functions. All seats receive leather upholstery, and the cabin is trimmed with wood. The standard stereo is an eight-speaker setup with a 6-CD changer and iPod/MP3 player interface.

Additional options include a panoramic sunroof, brighter xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision system, heated and cooled front seats, and a hard-drive-based navigation system. Buyers can also opt for a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system in the 2011 Lexus ES 350. Reviewers note that these options can propel the final cost to well above the base trim's MSRP.

The interior is a strong candidate for best in the entry-level segment, with quality leather and real wood, capacious rear seats that can fold down, and a trunk that can hold 14.7 cubic feet of cargo. That can be increased for bulkier packages or bags by folding the rear seats.

As noted before, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 offers a smooth and comfortable ride that eats up road debris without affecting cabin occupants. However, that same soft feel translates into poor communication with the driver of understeer during turns, and the ES 350 can feel like it is rolling into turns on occasion.

Safety features are strong, with top marks from the government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. That comes thanks to full cabin side and side curtain airbags in addition to front and front knee airbags. Antilock brakes and traction and stability control all come standard.

The 2011 Lexus ES 350 looks and acts like a Toyota Camry that has been dressed to the nines. Power numbers aren't staggering, and neither is handling. Prospective buyers will look to the quality fit and finish, stellar interior, and a number of good standard features first, however. That, combined with its safety features, should make it a good if not exciting option in the entry-level luxury sedan class.