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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  wonderful gas hog - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By mary e burns - November 25 - 2:10 pm

  My only wishes are for more storage space in the console, and better gas mileage. The ride is superb, and the heat/air vented seats, stereo, voice- activated travel guide, and overall comfort is non-parallel to any car I have owned, including Cadillacs and Lincolns. I have owned 12 GM luxury cars. Lexus has the best car for the price, and is more reliable.

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  Love it more each day - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By LIONLADY - October 29 - 4:53 pm

  At first I didnt like the performance, but after driving it for three years, it seems to know my heavy foot and quick response I need. Now, it suits me to a T and my husband (a BMW) owner loves taking the Lexus on long distances.

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  Nice car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Joe - October 19 - 4:46 pm

  This is quite a nice car! It has a comfy interior with a nice GPS, and is quiet like Lexus is supposed to be. I dont really enjoy the jerks this car gives me, but other than that, its great.

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  Eds Opinion - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By G.E Ignots - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Drove it to Cleveland and back to Orlando and it performed like a good car that it is.Had a Cadillac previously and I was more impressed with the Lexus 330 than I was with the Caddie

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  Perfomance of Excellence - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By K. Jenkins - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Im very pleased with the overall quality, performance, reliability and style of the ES 330.

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  Smooth as Silk - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By LexusMike - October 1 - 10:00 am

  My previous vehicle was a 2002 ES 300. The newly updated version is fantastic. The heated/cooled seats are a must! The new maple wood interior looks elegant. The 17 inch wheels look great with the LS430 chrome wheels. The radio controls on the steering wheel are nice, but lacks a mute or off button. The car is still slighly under powered, but the smooth ride and quiet cabin are worth the sacrifice. Lexus quality continues to be the benchmark.

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  Neat Car - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Ger - September 14 - 6:20 pm

  Everything is well thought out. No problems with most features. Would have preferred audio and climate controls on steering wheel(Noticed that they have done this on the 2005 model). Navigation system has some minor glitches, but over all performs in an adequate manner. Changed tires from Summer to "All Weather. Didnt feel comfortable going on a long trip with seasonal tires. Overall this car rates as god or beter than the three Cadillacs that I have owned previously

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  Best In Class - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Chris - September 9 - 8:23 am

  My wife was in the market for something special for her upcoming graduation gift - we had not considered the ES 330. Our focus was the RX 330, but when she saw the ES 330 and drove it, she was in love. This is the most refined car money can buy for under $40k. Everything about it screams quality: The paint, body lines/fit, interior trim, and driving experience. If you want a sports car, look elswhere; if you want a luxury car without having to consider a plethora of options (hint: try to build a comparable BMW 3-series and see where the price ends), look no further.

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  my Lexus 330 - 2006 Lexus ES 330
  By Lexus 330 - August 29 - 1:50 pm

  Being a senior @ 84, & having driven many miles in many different vehicles, I dont think there could be a more suitable car for a senior citizen. Really a great car!

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  Lexus for Life - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Pat Suits - August 26 - 5:23 am

  Most comfortable vehicle ever owned. Does everything but steer itself. No matter where I go, people of all ages stare at the car as tho it is some rare one-million dollar vehicle. Front seats are extremely excellent for people with back problems. Car rides so smooth, I believe you could run over a semi & not feel a single bump. Will never consider buying anything but a Lexus from now on.