2003 Lexus ES 300 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.58/5 Average
115 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Completely redesigned last year, the 2003 ES 300's only change is the addition of power-adjustable pedals.

Pros:
  • Comprehensive array of luxury and convenience features, superb ride quality, smooth and silent V6, advanced safety technology, excellent reputation for reliability.
Cons:
  • Bland driving characteristics, less powerful than most competitors, many of the desired features and options are expensive, no split-folding rear seat.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 115.00
  • Talk to Me in A Year! - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    Wanted to get the Lexus RX 300 for my wife; but after test driving the RX and the ES300....she opted for the ES because it handled better for her ..noted that the RX did not have the pick up of the ES ......shocked to read that Edmunds.com rated the car at 8.0 only and even more surprised to read the feedback of various ES owners ....4.3 to 9.0 ...what a varied range of opinions! Ask me in a year how I rate this ES 300! I am keeping my fingers crossed. My wifes previous car is a 1991 Acura Legend and I had to fight to get her to give up her Legend!

  • Quiet and smooth - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    Love the comfortable seats as this is my office away from home. I wanted a car that would last as long as my payments. I drive 40k a year so I took the lease for 39 months and will buy it at the end . the lease payments are 399 cant beat the price. I was a GM man now a lexus driver for ever. I noticed the transmission pause as noted in other reviews hope it is software as noted would love to see this fix as it is the only coplaint I have. One thing I would like to see is a power outlet on the dash for my cell phone

  • fvipicks - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    Took trips to St Louis and Indianapolis.The ride and general comfortis better than I was used to after owning Park Avenues and LeSabres all my life. The standard sound system is fantastic. Climate control was wonderful. Tight well-built car.

  • ES300 CPO Review - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    I bought a Certified Pre Owned with 33k Miles fully loaded - I am disappointed at the control options - Most of it seemed to be copied from Camry. Most annoying feature is the Cruise Control. Most of the controls can be fixed on the steering. Smooth ride but engine cribs on inclined roads.

  • Typical Lexus Quality - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    I bought this Lexus online with 51,000 miles as a lease turn-in for my wife. It is even better than expected. The interior was nearly flawless with the most supple leather seats I have ever sat in. I read numerous reviews saying it lacked power, but I have not found that to be true. It was made to be a luxury vehicle, not a fast sports car. The ride is smooth and quiet. It is very different from her last 1993 ES 300 that had over 215,000 miles.

  • Instead of the X-Type - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    I was deciding between the X-Type Jag and the ES300, glad I chose the ES. The Jag was nicer looking outside but that is it. The Lexus has all the amenities that one could want in a luxury sedan. Granted if performance is what you are after it is not the best choice. But hey, If I wanted performance Id get a Porsche right? I love this car, and better yet my wife does too!

  • The Lexus Myth - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    My Lexus knows the way to the shop and is not an extrordinary vehicle. I find the shop people nice and the service good but the vehicle should not have the brake, rattle and engine surging problems I have experienced in just one year. The really BIG surprise was the 15,000 mile check for almost $500.00, to check it over. WOW! This is my last Lexus.

  • Performance a bit disappointing - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    This car has the mushiest transmission shift I have ever experienced. The car lags annoyingly when attempting to accelerate for passing at highway speeds, and never seems to select the appropriate gear for optimum performance. The fit, finish and luxury of the car are beyond reproach. Unfortunately, driving pleasure is marred by the transmission characteristics for which Lexus has no cure. Ive had two Mercedes sedans recently and the ES300 just doesnt measure up to the performance standards set by the Benzs.

  • Satisfied Customer - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    This vehicle handles well on the highway it has a kick during take off. Im happy with the space I tend to let others drive and ride in the back. It also does good under cold conditions the engine remains quiet and warms up quickly. Overall Im happy with my decision. By the way it has a nice sound system. The navigation is pretty accurate for the most part.

  • Cush Over Muscle-Finally I Surrender!! - 2003 Lexus ES 300
    By -

    Coming from a sporty sedan background I was ready to jump into the "cushy" car catagory. Was it worth it? Most definetely! This car lets me forget my troubles with its smooth and quiet ride. After sitting on hard chairs all day I really enjoy the leather recliner- like feel in the drivers seat. I turn on my Mark Levison stereo and I am transcended into another world. Handeling has been awesome these last few snowey weeks. Handles as well as my daughters all-wheel drive Passat. My smile just gets wider! I dont need a gas chomping, SUV tank to haul my 2 kids around. They fit nicely in my back seat.

Lexus ES 300 Reviews By Year:
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