Overview & Reviews

If the marketing term "entry-level luxury sedan," were something you could look up in a regular dictionary, you would undoubtedly be referred to an artist's rendering of the Lexus ES 330. Few cars throughout history have offered such a by-the-book interpretation of affordable luxury.

For Lexus, the near-luxury experience implies supreme comfort, capable performance and impressive fuel economy. And so like every ES sedan before it, the Lexus ES 330 was a softly suspended, front-wheel-drive sedan with a creamy V6 engine and an automatic transmission programmed to shift for smoothness and efficiency rather than maximum acceleration. Inside, the ES 330's midsize dimensions provided room for four adults to bask in leather seats cushioned to sectional sofa standards. Painstaking use of noise-dampening insulation ensured a serene highway ride for all.

Although it brought calm and relaxation to many a frazzled commuter, the Lexus ES 330 was not an entry-level luxury sedan for everybody. In its quest to deliver the most luxury possible, it sacrificed driver involvement and enjoyment. For anyone with enthusiast leanings, the un-sporty ES 330 was a dull drive.

It's no surprise, then, that Lexus made the ES 330's successor, the ES 350, quicker, more agile and a bit more engaging. For consumers who aren't worried about sport-sedan pretensions, though, the Lexus ES 330 is an excellent choice for a used car purchase, particularly when you consider its first-rate reputation for reliability.

Most Recent Lexus ES 330

Sold from 2004-'06, the Lexus ES 330 debuted during a mid-model-cycle refresh for the fourth-generation Lexus ES sedan. The last full redesign had been in 2002, and '02 and '03 models wore the ES 300 badge and were powered by a 210-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. With the name change to ES 330 came a new 3.3-liter V6 with 225 hp and considerably more low- and midrange torque. (Note that this engine was re-rated at 218 hp for the '06 model year in adherence with new SAE certification standards.)

Lexus also increased equipment levels in the ES 330 transition, as must-have items like leather upholstery and a moonroof became standard fare for the first time. On the safety side, larger side curtain airbags were fitted.

Other standard equipment on the Lexus ES 330 included 16-inch alloy wheels, 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a seven-speaker CD/cassette audio system and convincing faux walnut trim sprinkled throughout the cabin. Major options included a higher-wattage Mark Levinson sound system, a navigation system, heated front seats, a real wood/leather steering wheel, xenon HID headlights and a stability control system.

Chrome wheels were optional as well, though on '05 and '06 models they measured 17 inches in diameter. Ventilated front seats became optional in '05, and satellite radio joined the list for '06.

Like all ES sedans, the Lexus ES 330 was based on the Toyota Camry, so driving characteristics were similar, though Lexus buyers could look forward to an even plusher, even quieter ride. Zero-to-60-mph times were in the mid-7-second range on both cars. Those wanting firmer handling around corners had the option of ordering an adaptive suspension, which varied the shock absorber damping according to road conditions, vehicle speed and driver input.

Consumers shopping for a used Lexus ES 330 should feel free to select from any of the three model years, as substantive differences were minimal. Lexus did give the ES some cosmetic upgrades for the '05 model year: The front and rear fascias were revised and fitted with new lighting elements, while inside, buyers could opt for bird's eye maple wood-grain trim in lieu of walnut. In addition, prospective ES 330 buyers who want a factory-installed navigation system may want to focus on '05 and '06 models, as they had voice activation technology.

User Reviews:

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  Love My New Lexus ES 330! - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By chulsey - November 28 - 12:23 am

  I have never owned a Lexus until now, and I see why owners of them are so loyal. The car, for the price, has so much too offer in terms of comfort, safety, sportiness and luxury. I was impressed by the comfort and responsiveness. For the price, safety and reliability I couldnt justify not taking the Lexus ES 330 home! I am so happy with my purchase!

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  Lexus ES300 Review - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Mr.WJB - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This is my 4th Lexus in 9 years and by far the best. The quality, comfort, handling characteristics and luxury can not be beat at the price.

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  Best Car Yet - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By RoBro - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Quick acceleration, smooth yet agile handling, and you can hear a pin drop. ...as long as the cabin fan is on low. All controls are easily accessible and the interior is luxuriously appointed. The icing on the cake was the dealer, Hendrick Lexus, in Charlotte; words simply cannot describe how advanced they are in customer service.

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  Never Again - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Charlie - November 10 - 2:46 am

  Always wanted to own a Lexus. I now own my first and last. Previously owned a Park Avenue which had more comfortable seats, more leg and head room, front and back, smoother transmission, better overall ride, better gas mileage (3 to 4 more miles per gallon on regular gas), better designed dash and driving controls as well as more luxury features. Lexus is over rated and after driving it for a year can only say it has been a great disappointment. Only wish they still made the Park Avenue.

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  Luxury Review - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By surjsondhi - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Great car if you love comfort, value for money and reliability.

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  Try it, Youll like it. - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By H.M. Stauffer - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Just traded to the ES330 from a world famous, overpriced European big black box. Old vehicle was not at all user friendly. Service also wasnt as "sales" sold it. Im glad I changed. The Lexus is just plain fun to drive. So quiet you think the car has stalled when you stop at a light. It "IS" user friendly too. Accessories are where you expect them to be. Not try and find me. No more CDs in the trunk. Service with the Lexus is better than I expected. To date everything has been good. Id do it again without hesitation.

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  Great Ride...Smart Buy!!! - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Rich Mc - October 27 - 7:00 am

  I drove my last car a (Maxima) for nearly ten years. I was ready for a new car and shopped the market hard. I compared everything from sedan to suvs. When it was all said and done I opted for the smart buy in the Lexus ES 330. After three months of owning the car I have been extremely pleased. While it might not make the statement some other trendy cars or even other luxury brands might offer, its an amazing vehicle. This is my first Lexus and it wont be my last. Ill be hard pressed to look outside the Lexus family when purchasing our next vehicle. If youre looking for an upgrade from an Accord, Camry, or Maxima, I suggest you consider the ES 330.

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  Great by any standard - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Chet Gronke - October 25 - 1:20 am

  We purchased our Lexus ES 330 and went on a 3000 mile trip almost immediately to the NE and the performance was flawless. While we purchased the auto in Fl I had the 1000 mile checkup done in NJ. The Dealership was prompt efficient and most thorough just like Fl. No hassle and we were on our way in a little more than an hour. Being 6 3" I found the interior room up front more than sufficient while the rear seat crowds a 6 footers head space. Has about 99% of the quality my Benz had only sacrificing a little handling response. Lots of value here for the dollar.

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  Im going to miss her - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By comfortable/safe - October 21 - 5:23 am

  This is a luxury car, not a sport car. I have enjoyed driving this car! I will buy another someday! the comfort and feeling of a quiet, safe reliabilty comes to mind instantly! Worth every penny... I owned a Lexus.

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  LOVE MY ES 330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By AnnetteMarice - September 29 - 5:50 am

  I researched many cars including the BMW, Audi, Acura, Mercedes-Benz and the Avalon. After much contemplation, internet research and test driving all the cars, I chose the fully loaded 2005 Lexus ES 330. I have had it for 5 months and I love it. It is a smooth ride, not as sporty as others, but still fun to drive. The inside is pure luxury with many features to keep you entertained. The navigation system is very easy and user friendly. Voice activated Nav makes using the nav while driving really safe. The Mark Levinson stereo is a dream to listen to. The comfort for the front passengers is great. Lexus has the best reputation and is living up to it. Luv my car.