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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  Transmission shifts poorly in ES330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Doug in VA - September 6 - 2:00 am

  First the good things: This car has a superbly designed interior with real wood accents that is beautiful. It rides very smoothly, and is extremely quiet. The ML stereo and GPS navigation sytsem are incredible. However, this car is spoiled by a poorly shifting transmission. When punching the gas pedal, theres frequently a 1-1.5 second delay before the engine accelerates and the transmission engages. This unpredictability makes the car frustrating to drive in heavy traffic.

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  Poor decision - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Steve - August 27 - 7:46 am

  Ive purchased lower end Japanese built sedans in the past. I thought this was an upgrade. I couldnt have been more wrong. The transmission hesitates and it is normal I was told. Possibly because of this it has fair acceleration off the line. It has the most uncomfortable drivers seat Ive ever sat on. Its very hard. I have not experienced near the same discomfort with other cars Ive driven including rental cars from low small to large ones. This purchase has taught me a lesson, that a higher end brand does not come close to guarantee driving enjoyment. It has been the exact opposite.

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  great car - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Paul K - July 21 - 10:00 am

  This sure is one of the best luxary cars out there in its price catagory, it has very smooth acceleration and the engine roar is also very nice. Got ours fully loaded, really glad we got the navigation. interior is the best part of the car, great lether and wood trims

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  Bad Transmissions - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Gottalemon - July 15 - 10:00 am

  This cars computer has problems controlling the transmission. Car hesitates badly at low speed/gear. Lexus knows but wont acknowledge because they cant fix it. Ive sent 3 letters to HQ and they tell me the car is operating as designed (without even talking to the mechanics or my dealershi, Hmmm!!). City gas mileage is BAD also, about 15-17. Read all the complaints about the trans on this site, then buy something else!

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  Lexus live the dream - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Demo - July 9 - 7:23 pm

  Today is 7/10/05, although Ive only been a Lexus owner for less than 2 months Im having the time of my life driving it. Sometimes its worth cutting down on lunch expenses to ride in luxury. This car give you all you need in power & relaxation, and most important features are all standard except for navigation. Which for me its not needed.

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  One Fantastic Car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By David - July 9 - 3:06 am

  The ES 330 rides like a dream. And dont be fooled, the get-up and go is there whenever called upon. The exterior design is classic, and the interior is simply georgous. Mileage is fair, and it runs on regular fuel - no small consideration these days.

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  First new car in 12 years and I love it! - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Dianne - June 12 - 10:40 am

  I knew I wanted an upscale car with lots of luxury and comfort, I drove several in this class but this was the one - I knew as soon as I sat in it. The seats are luxurious, it is quiet, it accelerates well - in short, its great.

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  1st Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By miracle - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I have previously owned an Audi, and an Infinity. This is my first Lexus and I am thrilled. The comfort and smooth ride of this car is excellent. Quiet is a main concern of mine and this car is like no other I have owned in that respect. I did notice the shifting hesitation when I was driving slower. I think this does need to be addressed.

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  Not as good as I thought.... - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By MYNULEXUS - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I wished I had more time to shop around before buying this car. Like many reviews posted here, I found the transmission sluggish which makes me feel dangerous when merging into traffic. The car gives me the feeling that I might lose control over it when changing lanes on highway with speed between 60-75mph. The performance is not even as good as my previous 96 4Runner.

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  The Almost PERFECT CAR - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Edmond V. - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Great size Fun to drive