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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  Fix the Transmission, and dead pedal. - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By dlendahl - October 16 - 10:00 am

  We bought this car in March 2004. As far as the fit and finish the car is very nice, the ride is ok with the junk Bridgestone tires but that can be changed. The acceleration of this car is terrible, and our previous Toyota Solara with a smaller motor would run away from this Lexus. It has a very bad case of dead pedal, and the transmission flat out sucks. With 10,000 miles on the clock already, I dont think that the gas mileage is going to get any better, either. I didnt know about the problems until tonight when my wife pointed them out to me. But I will be at the Lexus dealer this week, and as far as I am concerned they will make it run right or they can keep the junk until they do.

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  Why I like my Lexus - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Lexus - October 13 - 11:43 pm

  The car rides like a much larger car. The gas mileage I get around town 19 to 20 mpg, highway 30 to 32mpg with cruise.

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  Drives like new - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Pana - October 1 - 6:29 pm

  I just bought 2005 Lexus es 330 what 182 00miles the engine sounds good good transmission it drives like a new car it is very comfortable I drove the car 25 minutes for 10 days with a full gas tank to empty good gas miles it is like a 4-cylinder.. I am a regular man just telling you the truth

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  There is nothing like a Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Esquire - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Lexus has really outdone itself with the 2004 ES330. The car is beautifully designed, exquisitely appointed, and very well built with attention to every detail. In addition, it drives like a dream. The only thing that can compete with it is another Lexus. I can understand why the dealers insist on selling it as close to the sticker price as possible. It is worth every dime. Some of the German and Japanese competitors have good features as well, but none of them has the combination of beauty, luxury, perfect fit and finish, reliability, and value that this car has, at least not any car under $45,000 and few if any above that.

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  Impressive - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Steve Michaels - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Shopped for months, and test drove many models before the decision on the ES 330. My first import in more than 20 years. This is a beautiful automobile. First considered the Cadillac CTS, then the Infinity G35 (really nice sports car), but went for the comfort of the Lexus.

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  The ES is a Junior LS - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Chuck 3313 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent buy if you want to spend less and get a smaller LS in the Lexus line! The redesigned exterior brings it up to date finally, and the new engine is much better than previous ones.

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  Lexus ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Fred34 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Excellent handling and stylish appearance and design. Luxurious interior. Very smooth and comfortable. Well worth the price...a smaller LS is what it is.

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  Weird Shifting Trans - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By JGawry - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is smooth riding and comfortable, but the transmission is funky. If you accelerate quickly or slowly, it is fine. But, if you are in- between, or change your mind and let off the accelerator, the shifting gets confused and the transmission even slips occasionally. I would hope for a recall of some sort to fix this, once Lexus gets enough complaints.

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  2005 ES 330 review - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By craigrae - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Excellent ride and sufficient power

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  Best value - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Mr.S.Schiavo - July 3 - 12:23 am

  I have had this car for about 3 months now. It is well built, very quiet and a real pleasure to drive. Best near luxury car for the price. Quieter than our E-class Mercedes, and about 20 K less.