2011 Lexus ES: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2011 Lexus ES is a light-update year, not a redesign. Its main change is a recalibrated 3.5-liter V6 that runs on regular 87-octane fuel, with output adjusted to 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque.

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About the 2011 Lexus ES

5th gen (2007-2012), second-to-last year after the 2010 update and before the all-new 6th-gen 2013 redesign.

Lexus positioned the ES as a comfort-first luxury sedan for people who wanted a quiet cabin, smooth ride, and generous standard equipment more than sporty handling. The brand emphasized leather trim, power seats, a moonroof, and low-effort everyday luxury, while reviewers described it as a strong fit for shoppers who simply want to be isolated from noise and rough roads. In the Lexus sedan range, the ES was the easygoing, front-wheel-drive choice centered on relaxed commuting and road-trip comfort.

The sole ES 350 trim is a comfort-focused luxury sedan with a smooth, quiet ride and straightforward everyday features. It has leather-trimmed seats, 10-way power front seats, a power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, push-button start, Bluetooth, and iPod/USB connectivity.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The 3.5-liter V6 was recalibrated to use regular 87-octane fuel instead of premium. Output changed from 272 to 268 horsepower and from 254 to 248 lb-ft of torque.

2011 Lexus ES specs and features by trim

Feature	2011 Lexus ESES 3509 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive
Drivetrain	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas
MPG City	19 mpg
MPG Highway	27 mpg
Horsepower	268 hp
Torque	248 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	14.8 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	35.9 in
Seats	5
Doors	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Power Moonroof
Panorama Moon Roof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2012 Lexus ES compares

The 2012 Lexus ES 350 is virtually unchanged from 2011. The year’s one notable lineup event is a limited-run Touring Edition, while the regular ES 350 carries over without broad mechanical, safety, or technology updates.

See the full 2012 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the main change to the 2011 Lexus ES?

The main change is a recalibrated 3.5-liter V6 that runs on regular 87-octane fuel instead of premium. It produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque.

Does the 2011 Lexus ES require premium fuel?

No. The 2011 ES 350 is designed to run on regular 87-octane fuel, unlike the 2010 model’s premium-fuel setup.

Was the 2011 Lexus ES redesigned?

No. The 2011 ES carries on the fifth-generation design and follows the styling and equipment update introduced for 2010.

How does the 2011 Lexus ES compare with the 2010 model?

The practical difference is the 2011 model’s switch to regular fuel, accompanied by a small output reduction from 272 to 268 horsepower and from 254 to 248 lb-ft of torque. Styling, safety, technology, and structure did not change significantly.

Did the 2011 Lexus ES receive new styling or technology?

No. There were no significant styling or technology changes for 2011; the powertrain recalibration was the meaningful update.