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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  Love My Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Lady Bear - December 5 - 5:13 pm

  I am the original owner of a 2004 ES330 Lexus sedan. I am considering replacing the car with very mixed emotions. I love my Lexus. What a deal on this vehicle! At the time of purchase I got a fair purchase price, but when I think about the quality and reliability I have been fortunate to experience I have no complaints. I may choose to pass this quality vehicle on to my son who will soon graduate from college. What a lucky young man he will be!

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  I love the ES - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Roger Tomlinson - December 2 - 10:00 am

  Solid performance although it could handle more HP and would be slightly better for it. Beautiful interior and well designed inside. Lexus has made this model a junior LS! It has most of the luxury features available on the bigger more expensive models. You have to like FWD however, and that runs fine for me.

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  LOVE IT - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Felicia M. Curtis - November 21 - 10:00 am

  MY EXPERIENCE HAS BEEN GREAT ITS A VERY QUITE CAR. IVE BEEN AVERAGING 23 MILES TO A GALLON. I LOVE THE COMFORT AS WELL AS THE QUALITY OF THE GPS SYSTEM,MARK LEVINSON SOUND SYSTEM AS WELL AS THE EASE OF DRIVING IT. THIS IS A GREAT CAR I USE TO HAVE THE SC300 AND DECIDED ON ANOTHER LEXUS THE QUALITY AND CUSTOMER SERVICE IS SUPERB.

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  Great Car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Ross - November 12 - 7:23 pm

  Maybe the best car I have ever owned. Like the navigation system and quiet ride. Out of the 30 some cars I have owned this is the first time I have really had to study the drivers manual to figure out how to work everything. To someone who is not computer experienced I would imagine the navigation system would be a bit of a challange. MPG has ranged from 15 in town to high 20s on the road. Doesnt have sports car performance but has plenty of "go" for an old guy like me. However, even my grandson liked it.

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  Lexus ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Lynn - November 5 - 4:23 pm

  Very roomy car including large back seat and large trunk. Very reliable with no break downs in 4 years with normal maintenance only. Plenty of power for a sedan.

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  Impressive Vehicle - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Godfather Dee - November 2 - 10:53 am

  So far, I am very happy with my purchase. The car was bought with with high mileage but drives like a brand new vehicle. The high mileage was all highway miles and it was a 3 yr leased car. I cannot complain. I plan to stay with Lexus for a while.

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  Why buy anything else? - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By dexterdoorah - October 31 - 10:00 am

  After test driving many competing cars, it was quite easy to focus on the Lexus. Creature comforts are abundant. The ride is superb and quiet. Sound system is teriffic and the navigation system after conquering the learning curve is fantastic. The car is simply fun to drive and has adequate power. Cost is considerably less than the competition and car should be trouble free for years to come. Seats are extremely comfortable and the rear sunscreen is a big plus. There is nothing to dislike and is a real joy to drive.

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  What A Great Vehicle - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Ray - October 21 - 1:16 pm

  I purchased this vehicle three weeks ago and it is a great vehicle. The ride is quiet and smooth. There is plenty of power when you need it, and the interior is very well built. The confort level when your in this car is very high. The ventilated and heated seats our a must have option. If you purchase this vehicle I can not see how you could be disappointed. Everything in the 300 ES is luxury oriented.

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  Awesome !! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Stephy - October 9 - 11:23 pm

  I love this car. It is fun, beautiful, all the luxury you would expect from a lexus. Super smooth. You cant even feel the road. You cant hear the engine, and a very quiet ride. Its a very comfortable ride, plenty of space, front and back. Big trunk. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  New to Lexus - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By New Owner - October 9 - 3:43 am

  This is the first Lexus I have owned. Overall I am very happy with the car. The ride is smooth and quiet, even at 80 MPH. The cooled seats are a great feature. The only fit and finish issues I have are that the driver console (window buttons) keeps lifting off. I have been to the dealer twice and its still not right. The sun roof also has a dull rattle when its either very hot or very cold out. Other issues with the car are that the transmission lurches when taking off from an incomplete stop. The headroom is also tight. While I like the car I dont know if I would buy another. It doesnt quite live up to all of the hype over owning a Lexus. Maybe some of the higher end models do.