2005 Lexus ES Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The ES 330 received a slight facelift for 2005, following an engine upgrade the previous year and a total exterior redesign in 2002. For...
The ES 330 received a slight facelift for 2005, following an engine upgrade the previous year and a total exterior redesign in 2002. For years, Lexus had continued to rework the ES series. Great effort had been directed to the question: how can the ES utilize the same platform of the Toyota Camry while evolving into a vehicle that was totally unique in appearance and reputation. The arrival of the more modestly priced IS 300 allowed for several upgrades which could further distinguish the ES. Front and rear exterior appearances were changed, as the ES 330 received different lighting and trim. The wheels also grew to 17 inches. The optional navigation system gained new voice-activated technology, and a ventilation system was now available on the optionally heated front seats. The steering wheel design was also new, now featuring additional audio controls. The 3.3 liter V-6 which arrived in 2004 was unchanged, and it still utilized VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing + intelligence) technology. Toyota had developed VVT-i for Lexus, in an effort to boost performance while improving fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. The ES 330 traveled from 0 to 60 mph in just over eight seconds, and fuel economy was rated at 20/29 mpg. Transmission hesitation was again a common driver complaint. The problem was attributed to the computer-controlled technology, and led to sluggish performance on inclined roads and when accelerating from 60 to around 75 mph. The sports sedan image that Lexus had hoped to craft for the ES had been abandoned, and a more family-car-image was established. Certainly the ES 330 continued to serve as a comfortable and reliable sedan, known above all for its silenced and spacious interior. Reliability marks were hampered a bit by many drivers who dropped their ESs off for service, due to what they perceived as transmission problems.
What owners say
"Owners of the 2005 Lexus ES generally appreciate its reliability, comfort, and luxury features. Many drivers love the spacious and high-quality interior, the smooth ride, and the excellent sound system. However, some find the driving experience a bit dull and the power a little lacking compared to sportier options. Overall, many believe it's a solid value for a dependable luxury sedan."
Super strong acceleration, excellent brakes, handling solid. This is not a sports car, more a luxury driving cruiser. Great for long or short trips. Drove car cross country with zero problems, backache or discomfort. Car is a beauty, looking to upgrade.
April 1, 2013300k easy with no real issues. This is an amazing vehicle. Strong engine, only thing I had issues with was brakes, for some reason I replaced brakes often.
November 12, 2022Great car for the money. Lexus are know for reliability and comfort. The ES is pretty much a top of the line Camry and there is a good reason why Camrys are a top selling car. They hold their value well if properly maintained and serve an owner well for many years.
June 24, 2020What owners say
Super strong acceleration, excellent brakes, handling solid. This is not a sports car, more a luxury driving cruiser. Great for long or short trips. Drove car cross country with zero problems, backache or discomfort. Car is a beauty, looking to upgrade.
April 1, 2013300k easy with no real issues. This is an amazing vehicle. Strong engine, only thing I had issues with was brakes, for some reason I replaced brakes often.
November 12, 2022Great car for the money. Lexus are know for reliability and comfort. The ES is pretty much a top of the line Camry and there is a good reason why Camrys are a top selling car. They hold their value well if properly maintained and serve an owner well for many years.
June 24, 2020This car has been very good on gas, My wife loves this car. She loves to drive this around town, she is able to get into parking spots without any trouble. She feel very safe in this car. We have had no trouble with this car. We do the maintenance as needed and jsut keeps going. It is a well built car.
April 20, 2012This is one of the nicest cars that I have owned. It has all the bells and whistles that you could ask for. Good size for a family vehicle and plenty of power. I love the air conditioned seat. j
November 28, 2012This car is solid, if unexciting, luxury, and well-built: it has never had a problem. It's not fun to drive, but is highly dependable and quite comfortable. The turning radius is too wide, but other than that, I have no complaints about performance.
January 2, 2009At first, I really didn't like my car I thought it was too "old person-y" but I have fallen in love with it, I can't imagine myself with another car (well maybe the newer model (es350), but who doesn't want that) . It handles like you expect a luxury car to, it accelerate beautifully, it IS a gorgeous car. Everything in it is automatic which is wonderful, the stereo system is phenomenal and idk I just love my baby.
April 13, 2008Great car!! Runs and drives extremely good. I have 202,000 miles on my car and still drives as good as the day it came off the show room floor. Like most cars if you take care of them then they will take care of you!! Excellent choice of a car!!!
August 11, 2021I think this is a great value. The one i looked at had every feature one could ask for. However, i dont like having to use premium gasoline.
May 4, 2021This car is amazing. We have looked for reasons to upgrade but can't find any. When we do upgrade it will be another Lexus. Anyone who says these are just over priced Camry's has not been in one. Have owned 4 Camry's. (155,000 miles as of 05/31/14)
April 9, 2013Trims & specs
Base MSRP $32,825 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 225 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
