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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  Great Car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By JLH - May 5 - 12:33 pm

  Have had this car over 2 years. Most reliable car we have owned. Since I am 70, a lot of cars have been owned including 2 of GMs best. Had drivers door adjusted in first month and since than only oil changes and regular maintenance. There is a hesitation, but only when you want to be a jerky driver. Not as smooth as GM cars I have driven. 28 mpg on a 4000 trip last fall, driving out west where the speed is 75+ mph. I get 21 mpg hacking around. I must have an exceptional car because I have not had any of the problems others have mentioned. Looks like I will get around 35000 on stock tires.

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  Cant complain too much - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Rita - April 29 - 1:20 pm

  Roomy, Reliable and Comfortable. The acoustics are great with the upgraded sound system I had installed. Quiet car with the proper tires. Knock on wood, no major problems.

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  Very quiet and comfortable to drive - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Stenogrfr - April 19 - 3:56 am

  This car is very quiet, as far as road noise. Rides very smooth. However, it is hard for truckers to see you. Also, there is quite a large blind spot with this automobile.

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  Transmission needs fixing - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Joseg1966 - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I had this car for 7 months and regret buying it. It looks great but the transmission needs to be fixed. Lexus says that it performs as designed. I can not belive that Lexus has lowered thier standards.

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  Outstanding 2005 ES 330 with 48K miles - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By MJW - April 3 - 3:40 am

  Ive had my ES 330 for 3 months and have made one rather lengthy trip, plus drive to work every day. I havent experienced the transmission problems that others have. The navigation system that many complain about is fine. Read the manual and plan ahead. I agree the cup holders leave a lot to be desired. The sound system is great, but I wish the CD changer was in the dash. As for gas mileage - on my 1500+ mile trip I averaged 28.65 MPG, which includes driving into some heavy head wind - average speed 70+. Not a sexy car, but I am glad a made this purchase. Perhaps I just got lucky?

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  Awesome Driving Experience - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Larry C - March 8 - 2:00 am

  We drove and compared the 330ES to the Acura, Volvo, BMW, Accord and Camry. By far the best handling vehicle of them all. A smooth quiet ride like I have never experienced before. Interior is elegant and comfortable. the people at the Lexus dealership treated us wonderfully, all and all agreat car and a great experience. I am sold on Lexus. A whole lot of car for the money.

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  dirst 100 miles - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By zaus - March 8 - 2:00 am

  timing on my car ES 330 2004 is very poor--complained to the service manager and was told until 100 miles nothing could be done--i REALLY DONT UNDERSTAND THIS AS FAR AS i KNOW NO NEW CAR HAS TO BE BROKEN IN--- I think Lexus made a mistake

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  Best I have ever driven - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By stan - March 1 - 7:03 am

  Have owned this car since it was new and have over 60000 miles on it. It still handles and drives like a new car. Only problem encountered was a caution lite re: front seat came on and Lexus replaced the whole front seat. Not one other rattle, part problem or issue. Simply the best car we have ever owned.

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  Absolutely flawless - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By jragosta - February 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven dozens of cars and nothing under $40 K comes close to the quiet and luxury of this car. Nothing. Absolutely nothing to complain about - particulary since the 2004 is less expensive and more powerful than the 03. Great car.

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  total disappointment - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Peter Liu - February 1 - 2:00 am

  The car pulls to left and can not be repaired. I was told some cars got this way from having its suspention tied down during shipment. Its nothing a couple thousand miles wouldnt fix and the body will adjust itself. Theyre now insisting its fixed but I firmly believe it can not be fixed thats why the dealership has tried to cover it up by withholding repair orders from me and combining 2 repair attempts into one, stating the repair order will get mailed to me later etc. None of my friends and relatives will ever buy a Lexus period, especially from DiFeo Lexus in New Jersey