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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  Top Luxury/Moderate Performance - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By LBPop - May 29 - 11:33 pm

  If I was 10 years younger, this car would not have been my first choice. However ,in my mid 50s its perfect. Luxurious, quiet, classic and, with the ride stabilization, it handles relatively well. The shift lag seems to improve over time. It can be reduced by decisive decisions to accelerate. If you hesitate, it does too.

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  Another Home Run - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Mike1948 - May 17 - 11:00 am

  This is my fifth Lexus, and as with my two prior ESs and two GSs, the results are the same, fantastic. I have found the car to ride beautifully, and the reliability to be what I expect out of Lexus. While the body style is not the most agressive, it still carries an air of luxury. I would once again recommend Lexus to any of my friends looking for a new car.

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  I should have bought two of them! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Cordova - April 20 - 10:00 am

  After searching for the right car,I chose a Lexus over Infinity BMW,Acura,Volvo,Saab,Jaguar and Mercedes.My experience with the Lexus dealership was wonderful and was the most professionally run dealership I visited.The quality of this car is simply AMAZING! This was by far the QUIETEST car I drove.The Fit,finish,and performance of this car was better than any of the other brands. I got a 3.75% interest rate and got a heck of a deal on the car too. I only wish I could have purchased TWO of them.

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  Great Car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Doris - April 16 - 8:26 pm

  I read all reviews about this car prior to purchasing it. All of them are true. Despite its Camry look, the interior is superior and luxurious. It rides better than BMW 325. Most cars come with package 1 or 2. Go with package 2 (everything but the navigational system).I got mine at slightly below $31K (package 2). It worths every penny.

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  GOOD CAR - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By 2ROBERT2 - April 15 - 10:00 am

  GETZ LOTS OF COMPLIMENTS

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  Best Ride of a Lifetime - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Eddie - April 13 - 11:23 am

  This car is only for the young at heart who wants pure affordable luxury. It performs and drives like a dream and your neighbors will envy you from the first time they see you pull it into your garage. The mileage per gallon is very accurate.

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  happy camper - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By izzwiz - March 19 - 2:00 am

  this is my first lexus; i am VERY impressed. the ride is very smooth and the seating is very comfortable. the exterior is beautiful too, although i feel the back headlights could have been more sexy-looking (think infiniti g35 sedan). my other choices were that infiniti as well as the new acura tl. i test-drove all three cars, and although they are all within the same price range, the others are not in the same league as this car. result: choosing this lexus was a rather easy choice. i went with the "black-garnet" color which is definitely a head-turner. the navigation system is not too user- friendly but worth the additional cost after you get used to it.

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  Very good - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By R.B.Benson - February 9 - 10:06 am

  Uses a tad bit more fuel than I thought it would. Has good acceleration, but could use a little more at top end, on ahill.In all it is a joy to drive , seats are comforatable, adjustments OK. I would like turning signal lights on mirrors. I would probably buy another one

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  Excellet sedan - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Pride - February 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Lexus, it getting better and better. The style and the safety are all considered in addition to other mechanical perfection. A great car.

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  My first ES - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Don Good - January 24 - 10:00 am

  After having owned five LS sedans, I opted for the ES this time around, and I have not been disappointed. The ES is a super quiet, comfortable ride, and the V6 engine is adequate. All this, and on regular fuel, too.