2005 Lexus ES Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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.