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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  Watch Out: Poor Transmission - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By DSS - November 29 - 10:00 am

  The 5speed automatic suffers from hestitation and lack of smoothness and feel when shifting from 1st to 2nd, and 2-3rd. The hesitation and then surge of power is not only unpleasant, but can be unsafe. Lexus has been aware of this problem on ES300 and ES330 for 3years and has no fix. Warning: check discussion groups online for information before buying!

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  Smooth and Silky - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Ed Kwas - October 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is quiet,reliable, performs well and gets excellent gas mileage. A pleasure to drive. What else could you want?

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  It feels more expensive than it is - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Ibsig - October 17 - 2:36 pm

  Great compromise between road performance and luxury. Doesnt handle quite like the TL, but its far more pleasing to sit in. Probably an unfair generalization, but if you are under 40, you buy the TL--if you are over 45, you buy the ES330. If you are 40 to 45, youre on your own.

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  Lexus ES330 is a beautiful dream - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By ginger florian - October 17 - 10:00 am

  beautiful lines; good sight vision; ample room inside car and inside trunk; lots of luxury features plus, plus; navigation system is a must; stereo system (w/navigation system) is far from a typical auto stereo; quick heating & cooling response; quiet; sharp overall appearance;

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  The Best Vehicle - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Julie - October 10 - 8:36 am

  We bought our vehicle in June and we have now had the vehicle for 6 months. We absoulutely love this vehicle. We cannot be any happier we decided to buy this vehicle. We looked at the TL, Toyota, and BMW. After test driving the Lexus we completely forgot about the other vehicles. The service we receive at Lexus is always impeccable.

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  Great Ride - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Leon - September 12 - 4:26 pm

  This is my first 6 cylinder car ever and what a ride. I took the 05 Avalon Limited for a test drive and although the engine may be more powerful the refinement and luxury of the ES is umatched. From the simplicity of the controls to the real wood throught the cabin. The comfort is unmatched. Owning a Lexus is great. Ive had people comment me on how great the car rides and this is from owners of s500 and the GS300 as well, so that says a lot.

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  My Lexus - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Ron Myers - September 9 - 2:00 am

  The es 330 has lots of power,and is a real pleasure to drive. It is very well built,and has the real feel of luxery.

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  I Might Buy It Again - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By MCG - August 29 - 10:00 am

  Like others, I have noticed transmission issues. Stopping at a stop sign and immediately starting again confuse the tranny. I have not had problems elsewhere. Freeway driving, merging, acceleration to get out of a jam...all excellent. No pull to the left issues w/mine. Drive the one youre going to buy. The interior is beautiful, comfy and convenient. The CD changer in the center console limits storage capacity. For the HP, the car is not responsive from 0, but, handles driving at speed nicely. I also like the Comfort vs. Sport suspension adjustment - it provides a noticeable difference in ride and handling. Beautiful car-should perform better.

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  Fantastic Voyage - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By Dave Balaban - August 14 - 3:16 pm

  After owning a few Toyota vehicles, we finally decided to purchase a Lexus. This has been a wonderful experience. The finish and fit are excellent. The steering wheel audio and Navigation controls are a great idea. I was worried about the ride quality with 17 inch wheels but it was not detected after I drove a 2004 with 16 inch wheels. I would like to see a folding rear seat. My wife and I argue as to who drives the car. We truly love this car and will probably purchase another.

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  2005 ES 330 Lexus - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By ES 330 - August 1 - 5:20 pm

  I have had my new Lexus just over three weeks. (I had a 2001 ES 300 Lexus.) I really enjoy my new car. I love the way it handles driving in the mountains and curves. The car turns on a dime. The power is available when needed to make a manuever on the freeway. The car is extremely comfortable to ride in. The sound system is really great