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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  Lexus Es330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Wayne Helfer - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Sedan review, This car is superior to any we test drove in handling, comfort and safety.

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  Drivers seat - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By JR Cole - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I drive about 100 hundred miles a day and find the drivers seat the most uncomfortable and painful. The front of the seat is mounted ~2" higher in the front which positions all the weight on your thighs. Ive tried all the adjustments the seat will allow with no relieve. I spoke to the service manager about my problem his only comment was "ya that seat sucks!". Dont get me wrong all the acculades given this car are well earned and if you only drive around town 10 to 12 thousand miles a year you will probably never notice the discomfort.

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  Garnet Pearl ES330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Garnet - June 10 - 10:00 am

  The ride is smooth and quiet, with quality evident from the sound of the doors closing to the extensive standard features. The Black garnet pearl color is a real head turner and the real wood interior is rich looking and attractive. The new voice activation makes the navigation system easy to use. The flexibility of finding destinations and large point of interest data base are especially useful. The standard suspension is set up to be comfortable. the optional adaptive suspension is better suited to sporty driving. Power is adequate and the transmission shifts smoothly and quietly, with no hang ups between gears.

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  First Ever Non GM Car - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By RIC - June 1 - 4:03 am

  This is the first ever Japanese car in this family and may not be the last. Fit and finish is superior to any American vehicle weve owned. Quietness, power, luxury, beauty of front end design, ergonomics, attention to detail are all reasons we left the General. And we dont regret it one bit.

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  Lexus ES330 is Just luxury Camry - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Paul Sneed - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Traded in a 2003 Camry for the ES330 Lexus. Ride and feel was the same. Controls are much the same. Gas Milage was less then the Camry. Overall the ES330 is just a Camry with more options and a higher price.

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  Another Great Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By johnp - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Recently traded my 02 ES300 for an 04 ES330. There are some significant differences. The extra 15 HP are an improvement. The new transmission no longer has the slow downshift issue. Interior design is great and the car is VERY comfortable. Steering/handling is tighter. The NAV system is very intuitive. This car is so good and so comfortable I just dont feel the need for a larger model.

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  IDR Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Donald Rosuck - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Great car, smooth riding, great on rough roads and real good in the rain. Holds the road well on turns, and the newer engine gives very good acceleration when needed.

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  2006 Lexus ES 330 Reviewed - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Bob Reid - May 6 - 3:46 pm

  Great all around luxury range entry. Hard to beat total value in terms of price point to features and resale value. A bit soft drive - more luxury than performance, but solid design and build quality. Great vehicle for someone interested in luxury appointments, comfort, quality, and genuine value. Fuel economy is respectable for a luxury car.

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  Upgraded from Camry & Lovin Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By whoohah5 - April 16 - 12:33 pm

  Owned a sporty Honda with a lot of zip. Also have a Corvette, but nothing compares to the ride and feel of the Lexus. We bought a Camry and sold it to a family member after they totaled their car. We wanted a comfortable ride and family car. Our 2004 Lexus is a luxurious treat and we love it. Ill drive the wheels off this car.

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  what a ride - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By dgrand - April 2 - 2:00 am

  very much the definition of luxury why pay more you dont need to upgrade from this one