7 Surprising Cool Features In The 2008 Lexus ES 350 You Probably Didn't Know About

After fifteen years on the road, the 2008 ES 350 has had ample time to distinguish itself as a choice luxury sedan brimming with high-end luxury features, and delivering a strong, quiet performance. For drivers in the know, the ES-Series Lexus is less on the sporty and more on the serenity; a fantastic family car that is just as much game for executive purposes. 

When it comes to luxury vehicles, Lexus has always been a top contender in the market. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 is no exception, offering drivers a comfortable and stylish ride with plenty of impressive features. As the market salivate all over the more powerful and sportier 2023 ES 350, we’ve created this article as a closer look back at some of the surprising cool features in the 2008 Lexus ES 350 that you probably didn’t expect in the fifth generation. 

The emphasis is on “cool,” meaning beyond the basics. These features inspire confidence in those looking to dip in the used luxury car market.

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1. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 Features The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

One of the most impressive features of the 2008 Lexus ES 350 is its Adaptive Cruise Control system. This system uses radar to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, making long drives on the highway much more comfortable. 

Lexus calls it the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). The DRCC uses a radar sensor at the front of the vehicle to maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead. Here's how it works: 

• Speed Setting: The driver can set a desired speed using the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel.
• Radar Sensor: The radar sensor continuously monitors the distance to the vehicle in front and measures its speed.
• Distance Control: The driver can select from different following distances (such as short, medium, or long) to determine how closely the vehicle will follow the one ahead.
• Speed Adjustment: Once the system is activated and a vehicle is detected in front, the DRCC adjusts the ES350's speed by automatically applying the brakes or accelerating as needed to maintain the preset distance.
• Stop-and-Go Function: In traffic conditions, the DRCC can bring the vehicle to a complete stop if the vehicle ahead stops. Once the traffic starts moving again within a certain time frame, the ES350 will automatically resume following the vehicle.
• Driver Override: The driver can override the system at any time by pressing the brake pedal or accelerator, which temporarily deactivates the adaptive cruise control.

2. The 2008 Lexus ES 350’s Smart Key System

The Smart Key System in the 2008 Lexus ES 350 lets you unlock and start the car without ever having to take the key out of your pocket or purse. Simply approach the car with the key in your possession, and the doors will automatically unlock. 

Once inside, you can start the car with the push of a button. The video above shows you how to program a second smart key remote for 2006-2008 Lexus models, including the ES 350.

3. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 Features Rearview Camera

While many cars of the same model year couldn’t boast of a rear cam, the 2008 Lexus ES 350’s rearview camera is a great feature for anyone who struggles with parallel parking. 

The camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easy to see where you're going and avoid any obstacles. 

4. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 Has Voice-Activated Navigation System

The voice-activated navigation system in the 2008 Lexus ES 350 is another impressive feature that makes driving easier and more convenient. 

Simply speak your destination, and the system will provide turn-by-turn directions, making it easy to get where you need to go without taking your hands off the wheel. 

5. The 2008 ES 350 Offers A Mark Levinson Premium Audio System

If you're a music lover, you'll appreciate the Mark Levinson Audio System in the 2008 Lexus ES 350. This premium sound system delivers crisp, clear audio that makes your favorite songs sound even better. 

The optional Mark Levinson premium audio system is known for its high-quality sound reproduction and immersive listening experience thanks to its high-quality components, advanced sound processing, and well-balanced audio reproduction. Some of the system’s key features include: 

• Speaker Configuration: The audio system featured a carefully designed speaker layout, typically including multiple speakers strategically placed throughout the vehicle's cabin. The exact configuration may vary depending on the specific vehicle's options.
• Amplification: The Mark Levinson system included a powerful amplifier to drive the speakers and ensure optimal sound quality at various volume levels. The amplifier was designed to deliver clean and distortion-free audio reproduction.
• High-Quality Components: The system utilized high-quality audio components, such as speakers, tweeters, and woofers, engineered to reproduce a wide range of frequencies accurately. This allowed for detailed and balanced sound reproduction across different musical genres.
• Surround Sound Technology: The audio system may have featured surround sound technology, creating a more immersive listening experience. This technology utilized advanced audio processing algorithms to simulate a multi-channel audio setup, enveloping the occupants in a spatial soundstage.
• Audio Source Compatibility: The Mark Levinson system was compatible with various audio sources, including AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary inputs. In some models, it may have also included features like a built-in 6-disc CD changer or an optional iPod/MP3 player interface.
• User Controls: The audio system typically included an intuitive interface for controlling various audio settings, such as volume, bass, treble, and balance. These controls were often integrated into the vehicle's infotainment system or accessible through steering wheel-mounted buttons for convenient operation.

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6. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 Has Dual Climate Control System

The 2008 Lexus ES 350’s dual climate control lets both driver and passenger set their preferred temperature, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable on long drives. 

In other words, the driver and front passenger can independently adjust the temperature and airflow settings for their respective zones to achieve a personalized comfort. Here are the key features of the dual climate control in the 2008 Lexus ES 350: 

• Individual Temperature Settings: The driver and front passenger could set their desired temperature independently. Each zone had its own control panel with temperature adjustment buttons or dials.
• Synchronization: The climate control system offered the option to synchronize the temperature settings between the driver and passenger zones. When enabled, adjusting the temperature in one zone would automatically adjust the other zone to the same temperature.
• Airflow Distribution: The dual climate control allowed individual control over the airflow distribution for each zone. The driver and front passenger could choose different airflow modes, such as face, feet, or defrost, based on their preferences.
• Fan Speed Control: The system provided separate fan speed controls for each zone, allowing the driver and front passenger to adjust the airflow intensity according to their comfort level.
• Auto Mode: The auto mode feature enabled the climate control system to automatically adjust the temperature, fan speed, and airflow distribution based on the desired temperature set by the occupants. The system would continuously monitor the cabin temperature and make adjustments as needed to maintain the set temperature.

7. The 2008 Lexus ES 350 Features Power Rear Sunshade

The power rear sunshade in the 2008 Lexus ES 350 is a great feature for anyone who lives in a hot climate. Simply press a button, and the sunshade will roll up or down, keeping the sun out of your eyes and helping to keep the car cool. 

Summarily, the 2008 Lexus ES 350 offers drivers a range of impressive features that make driving more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. 

From the Adaptive Cruise Control system to the Mark Levinson Audio System, there are plenty of cool features in this luxury vehicle that you may not have known about. Anyone combing the used car market for a luxury sedan with standout features will be happy with what the ES 350 has to offer.