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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  Very Satified - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By fre1 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my ES330 about 2 weeks ago at Lexus of South Atlanta. The staff was awesom and my car buying experience was painless. I am very pleased with my car. This is my first luxury car and I really attract a lot of attention on the road and in the partking lot. I love the interior of the cabin...it is so luxurious. I feel like Im driving something that costs a lot more.

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  Fantastic!! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Paul - September 26 - 8:00 am

  Im a 17 year old who bought a 04 ES330 after I wrecked my original car (05 Accord Hybrid). This car is absolutely amazing, I am a petrol head who loves cars and this car is my favorite of the five Ive driven. My Honda was good but this car handles so much better and is so quiet on the road sometimes you forget you are even driving. As a young kid obviously I would like it to be a bit faster and better on acceleration but yet ive never had a problem merging on the highway or getting out of my neighborhood. This car has surpassed all expectations that I had for it as I bought it with 155k miles, it hasnt had any problems besides the normal maintenance (oil change, brake pads etc). I would recommend this car to any parent or teenager who is looking for their first car, its reliable and when it needs to be: quick. Overall a great car and an excellent cruiser I love taking road-trips with it and you will too.

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  Beware of this car - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By jp_60173 - September 11 - 10:00 am

  The ES330 has a plush ride, is very quiet and has a nice looking interior. However, the transmission shifts very roughly. Also, many exhibit a hesitation that makes the car feel like an old car with a dirty carburetor that bogs down when trying to accelerate. It does not happen to every car but tends to get worse with time if your car is one of the unlucky ones. The service people at two dealerships admitted to the problem but said there is no fix and that this has been a issue since the 2002 models. They believe it may be a computer software problem. Lexus does not admit they have a problem and offer no fix. Ultimately, I got rid of my ES330 after 4 months. Stay away from Lexus.

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  Quality Automobile - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Staten Island Owner - August 12 - 9:26 am

  A truly high quality automobile. Every thing you touch exudes quality. Ride is extremely smooth and quiet. Power and handling is more then adequate. The miles just disappear and you arrive as fresh as when you departed. Dealership is top notch and will exhaust every means to please you. This is my second ES and I will purchase no other make at no other dealership as long as they continue the quality vehicles and first class service they provide.

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  skewed performance - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By stevenR - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Very powerful car with great amenities. But the car has a pull to to the left that the mechanics cant seem to get rid off. It is particularly noticable at highway speeds. Otherwise the car is comfortable and gets good gas mileage.

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  Very nice car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Carter - July 5 - 7:06 pm

  This is a very smooth driving auto. Ive taken it on several out of town trips and the NAV system gets me right to the door. I cant wait to move up to the LS 430 in a few years. I love the luxury feel this car provides.

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  new car owner - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Irene Rice - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Too plain,,,Uncomfortable on a long drive. Not attractive from the side view. Not terribly fun o drive.

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  Great ride/ quiet - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Ron - June 18 - 8:00 am

  Ive owned my ES330 for 10 months. Overall I love this car a lot. This is my third Lexus and would definitely buy another. A very quiet and comfortable car on long trips, great leather interior and feature comforts. Very smooth and quiet interior cab.

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  Awsome car - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By JohnDaniels - May 28 - 10:00 am

  has the luxary, power, and handling. Not to mention your getting more for the price. even though the new Acura TL has more power, hence it is still a honda, not as comfy as the Lexus

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  2004 ES330 - Best Yet - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By nomram - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This will make it my third Lexus lease. The difference between my 2000 ES 300 and the new one, is like night and day. Aside from all of the safety features, the car handles and rides like a dream. Lexus knows how to build dependable and quality cars and this one is no exception. I have always felt that the ES line was the best value on the market.