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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Satisfied buyer - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By Ralph W Arnold - October 29 - 2:00 amI like the way it handles on the Interstate highways and in town traffic.
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luv it - 2005 Lexus ES 330
By luv it - October 9 - 11:20 pmI get a lot of attention when I drive this car. It feels solid, sticks to the road and doesnt bounce around. I understand the gas mileage will increase with more miles on the car than what I have.
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The Best - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By armakr - September 28 - 10:00 amThis is the finest sedan for the money. Fit and finish cannot be beat. The car is tank quiet and rail smooth. Unbelievable and with reliability second to none you cant go wrong. Run dont walk to buy one. Worth every cent.
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?? - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By Leon Busche - September 22 - 2:00 amThis car is fun to drive. Quiet, smooth, luxurious interior. Styling is a bit far out for my taste, but everything else is so good, this aspect is not so important.
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I Love this car! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By MFishEsq - September 22 - 2:00 amFinally, a mid-ranged luxury car. This car handles superbly. It is quiet, comfortable, fuel efficient and has all of the feeling of a luxury car. A big step up from the old Camry-turned-Lexus style of a few years ago.
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Lexus ES330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By Icesk8r999 - September 16 - 2:00 amThis is my third Lexus. Love it!
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My 2005 ES 330 - 2005 Lexus ES 330
By wej2 - September 12 - 8:16 amA very boring driving vehicle. Transmission hesitates a lot. The tranny cant always get the right gear selected.
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Our 2nd Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By ES330 in NC - September 5 - 10:00 amWe purchased an RX330 in December 2003 and have been so please that I went and bought an ES330 two weeks ago. The value is amazing! I plan on using this vehicle for business trips. What a great a ride for the money!
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103,000 Miles and going well. - 2005 Lexus ES 330
By TimSmith - September 2 - 8:16 pmI have put a lot of miles on this guy and have yet to do anything but scheduled maintenance. Rides like the day I bought it, gets great mileage, and still is in very good shape.
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371,000mi AND GOING STRONG! - 2004 Lexus ES 330
By David S. - August 27 - 1:57 pmWe bought the ES330 used, with about 50,000mi. We have since put 321,000 MILES ON IT and it runs like a champ. Trans is just starting to pick up quirks, and we need new rear struts. We have replaced the A/C compressor and 2 alternators, as well as normal brake and oil changes- THATS IT. We live in the woods in Florida and our dirt road is punishing, but the car has held up staggeringly well. Its still VERY smooth, comfortable and quiet when cruising at 85mph. Will post again when we reach 400,000mi!
