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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  ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By L.Hedden - January 24 - 10:00 am

  After owning a 2002 es300 this 2004 has several outstanding improvements. The mileage, power, comfort, stereo, seats, handling, and general overall design has been GREATLY improved. The 2002 es300 was a great car and we had over 23,000 miles on it, but the opportunity became available to upgrade to the 2004 and it was a very pleasent surprise! The color, interior and accessories, are all identical to the 2002, but it has so many little improvements, that this was definitely the right thing to do. Service at the dealers has been exceptional.

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  acceleration very poor - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By seawolf - January 24 - 10:00 am

  The new and "improved" computer controlled throttle is dangerous. The vehicle hesitates for one to two seconds whenever the accelerator is pressed; generally, when you need to move out or over, there is no pick up at all. Even the Lexus mechanics told me they would not drive it.

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  Id buy another one - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Linda lou - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I love my new Lexus. Previously I drove Volvos but wanted to try something new. I am so happy I did. It is a fun car to drive and very pretigeous. Handles well on the road and in town driving. Gets fairly good gas mileage.

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  My Review - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By mrsrowdy1 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I am in love with my car. The only complaint is that it needs a little more get-up from 0 mph.

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  First time owner - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By dalfrednix - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 2005 ES330 recently and so far Im very satisfied with my choice. I have less than a 1,000 miles on the car but so far no problems and the transmission is shifting smoothly. The best I could do was a $1,000 off the MSRP and a fair price for my trade-in. Dealer politely told me he had others interested in this car. At first I thought this was just talk until the interested party showed up at the dealership will I was finalizing the deal. Ive owned BMW and Mercedes and I was looking for comfort, quality, and long term reliability-Lexus was the ONLY choice.

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  Great Car - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Scott - January 13 - 2:03 am

  Just bought 2006 ES with navigation. This car is the smoothest, most quiet car I have ever purchased. The build quality is excellent and the fit and finish is best Ive seen. The car handles better than I thought it would and the ride is impeccable.

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  Near Luxury Near Perfect Car - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Fireice - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Whatever reasonings behind your purchasing decision, you wont regret. A very comfortable car with great workmanship. Well done Lexus.

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  Lemon - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Lynn Stone - December 7 - 10:00 am

  Persistant pull to the left despite repeated repair attempts.

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  Love it - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Alexas - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This is the smoothest ride you could ever have.

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  best entry-level luxury baby - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By chrislee - November 5 - 2:00 am

  previous had a bmw 323i and wasnt too happy with its reliability. always in dealership to get small things fixed. a little too sporty for my taste. finally saved enough money and traded that in for a lexus es330. totally happy in the last 2.5 months. incredible ride and luxury for a good price. lots of interior room, too.