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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  Likeable but not Loveable - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By MJL - March 25 - 4:53 pm

  Ive had my ES 330 for a bit over 2 months. Traded in a 2002 Acura TL. While the Lexus has a more upscale interior (i.e. wood trim steering wheel) the handling is not nearly as nimble as the TL, nor is it as quick as the TL (notwithstanding that both cars have the same HP rating). I also find that the double-wishbone suspension of the TL makes for a slightly more comfortable highway ride that the rack & pinion ES. All in all a nice car, comfortable and competitively priced with the likes of Acura TL, Infiniti G35 and Cadillac CTS. That said, I find it a likeable car, but not a car that can be characterized as a "drivers car". Only averaging 23 mpg combined city/hwy using reqd premium.

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  What a Car! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By yawsboy8067 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  I am an ex Acura owner and decided to try a Lexus. The ES 330 is a superb vehicle with a quiet, luxurious ride. Lexus pursuit of perfection comes close with this vehicle. I am glad I waited and didnt buy an ES 300 model. For the price, the features cannot be beat. I would recommend this model to anybody in the new car sedan market. A great buy and a great ride!

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  Difference from Camry and Accor - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Johnson88 - January 27 - 10:00 am

  When green light is on, it can pass Camry and Accord easily if you want. Internally it is hard to tell which luxury item is missing comparing with any luxury car (of course you must buy it with options as much as you can, otherwise go buy top Camry or Accord to save your money).

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  Love My lexus - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Lisa - January 25 - 3:16 am

  I absolutely love my Lexus. There was some getting used to the car. Every car runs differently so you have to get the feel for it. But it runs great, even cold. It truly is a luxury car.

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  Doesnt get much better - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Julia - January 23 - 9:38 pm

  I got my ES330 with just under 100,000. Im at almost 130,000 after 2.5 years. So far its the best car Ive ever owned. Ive only had to do preventative maintenance on it, such as a timing belt, spark plugs and oil changes. Ive gotten everything done at the Lexus dealership and at very fair prices. Thanks to this car, it will be hard to ever drive anything other than a Lexus.

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  Excellent car, but... - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Carl Glover - January 14 - 12:56 am

  Purchased used with 17k mi. Transmission hesitated some at first, but now resolved with use of premium gas and transmission apparently "learning" how I drive, as Lexus states. It is an exemplary automobile in every way, except for excessive road noise. This surprised me, as I expected a much quieter ride. It is especially annoying at highway speeds on the interstate. However, I am hoping it is due to the original equipment "summer tires," and will decrease to a more tolerable level when these are replaced by all-season radials.

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  As Advertised - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Dino Necci - January 7 - 11:33 am

  My wife has been after this car for quite a while. It is a joy to drive everything works as intended, the only thing she complains of is the interior color. White on tan interior, black would have been better and the transmission the way it shifts but on checking the car it looks like this car is drive by wire, which means there is no cable connected to gas peddle. Its electric, that might be why the tranny shifts the way it does. The hot and cold seats are great, easy to clean, good fit and finish.

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  New Car Honeymoon - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By New Lexus Owner - January 6 - 2:00 am

  Although the handling is not as tight as my last high performance car, I enjoy my new Lexus ES 330 immensely. The size is perfect for 4, and it can accommodate 5 easily. The truck is generous, and the front wheel drive is a carefree comfort in Northern climates. The rear sunscreen is appreciated by back seat passengers, and the safety ratings make this car a prudent choice. Additionally, the dealership has been superb.

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  Best value for the money - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By nonlinear - December 25 - 3:10 am

  Exceptionally quiet and refined ride, way above in ride quality compared to cometing vehicles. Excellent interior, with great fit and finish, and high quality materials, including genuine wood. Handles well in the snow. Nice Mark Levinson sound system (if you get the Nav package). Legendary reliability and dealership experience.

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  My ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Lexman - December 17 - 8:30 am

  I love my 2004 ES 330, its very fun to drive and its also very comfortable. I like how people stare and watch me as Im driving. its certainly a eye catcher.