2012 Lexus ES: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
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.
About the 2012 Lexus ES
5th generation (2007-2012), final year before the all-new 2013 redesign.
Lexus positioned the ES 350 as a comfort-first luxury sedan for drivers who value a quiet cabin, easy V6 power, and generous standard equipment more than sporty handling. The official 2012 material highlights leather trim, power front seats, a moonroof, and regular-fuel operation, while major reviews describe it as a smooth, hushed highway car. For most shoppers, the ES is the Lexus sedan built for relaxed daily driving and long-distance comfort.
The 2012 ES 350 is a comfort-focused luxury sedan with a quiet cabin, a smooth ride, and generous standard equipment. Its main features include a 268-horsepower V6 that uses regular gasoline, leather-trimmed seats, 10-way power front seats, a moonroof, Bluetooth, and 10 airbags.
2012 Lexus ES specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 268 hp |
| Torque | 248 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.9 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| USB Ports | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Lexus ES compared with the 2011 model?
Very little changed for 2012. The regular ES 350 carried over with the same powertrain, comfort-focused setup, safety equipment, and technology; the main lineup event was a limited-run Touring Edition.
What is the 2012 Lexus ES 350 Touring Edition?
The Touring Edition is a limited-run version of the 2012 ES 350 introduced during the model year. It was a special edition rather than a broad update to every ES 350.
Did the 2012 Lexus ES get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2012 ES 350 kept its 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission, with no meaningful powertrain change from 2011.
Did the 2012 Lexus ES receive new safety or technology features?
No broad safety or technology updates arrived for 2012. The ES 350 retained features such as Bluetooth, USB and iPod audio connections, keyless entry with push-button start, and a 10-airbag system.
Is the 2012 Lexus ES the final year of its generation?
Yes. The 2012 ES is the final model year of the fifth generation, which was replaced by an all-new ES for 2013.