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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  2004 es 330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Bibi Hussain - April 5 - 2:50 am

  everytime heat is turned on or air, get a foul odor, dealer cant say why or what is wrong, cahnged filter twice in one year, still get odor

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  AWESOME ES330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Judy - April 2 - 3:10 am

  The ES 330 is wonderful. I sold my SC 430 because I found the ES 330 to be a better car with more options and certainly more room. If its a Lexus its fun and reliable and oh so quiet

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  LEXUS ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By RAMA SEELAM - March 26 - 10:00 am

  HIGHLY RECOMENDED, BEST CAR FOR THE PRICE. FUN TO DRIVE AND IT IS SUCH A COMFARTABLE RIDE IT FEELS LIKE YOU ARE DRIVING IN AIR RATHER THAN ON ROAD.

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  Lexus ES 330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Bruno1 - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my ES 330 for one month. This is my first Lexus and everything that I have heard, read and seen regarding this vehicle, it is living up to my expectations. I got the Sport Design version with gray interior and graphite exterior with custom rims. After I knew that the ES 330 was going to be my next car and was picking out the color, I saw this model and that sealed the deal. With the extra tinting on the windows (Arizona is brutal) this is a sharp looking car. I was actually on my way to test drive an Infinity G35 when I stopped in to see the ES 330. I had to call the Infinity salesperson half way through the paperwork to cancel the appointment.

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  Tricked ES 330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By WHTFLR - February 7 - 10:00 am

  Recently purchased a 2005 ES 330, added 18" Chrome Wheels, Toyo Tires, Dark Tinted Windows, and a Factory Rear Spoiler. Although the Toyo Proxes put more rubber on the road, the handling of the vehicle stayed relatively the same. With the added features, the silver car with chromes stands out significantly from other vehilces. The sound system is sufficient for the inside cabin, the controls for the air and radio are well positioned, with controls on the steering wheel making driving the ES 330 an intriguing delight. Have read a lot of reviews stating the ES is a glorified Toyota - nothing could be farther from the truth - there is no comparison, this

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  miami,Fl - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By CKM - February 7 - 10:00 am

  excellent car, needs more head room for a grown man. Wonderful on long open road trips.

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  True Luxury Mid-size - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Jerry - February 6 - 11:40 pm

  An exceptional car in my opinion. The fit and finish is superb. Power is more than adequate for a 63 year old.

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  Impressive but ...... - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By cdyang - January 11 - 2:00 am

  The interior design is beautifully done. Sitting in it, you felt you probably spent more than $50K although most likely you spent significantly less than $40K. The exterior design, though, is quite dull - almost indistinguishable from a Camery. The acceleration is significantly improved compared to the 3.0L version, but still significantly deficient compared to SAAB 9-5 or Lincoln LS V8, both are only slightly more expensive. It is a very comfortable and very quiet car to ride, although driving it for long distance can put you into sleep qucikly. The fuel economy though, is a bit disappointment: I registered about 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on highway.

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  Good but had to trade it - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Jay S - January 6 - 3:13 am

  We bought the ES a little over a year ago and traded it over a week ago for a sportier car. The ES is an excellent sedan built for comfort and rolling isolation. I just had a change of taste for something sportier and more fun to drive.

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  Smooth and Silky - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By dave22750 - December 6 - 10:00 am

  The quality of the ES 330 is outstanding. The ride is smooth and very quiet. The navigation system is remarkable. Dealer was very courteous and helpful.