2005 Lexus ES 330: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Lexus' best-selling car gets minor styling changes and several first-time features for 2005. The ES 330 comes with a 3.3-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission, and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Also standard are front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Antiskid/traction control is available, as is Lexus' Adaptive Variable Suspension with driver-selectable shock-absorber settings. Sixteen-inch wheels are standard, but 17s are a new option, as are heated/cooled front seats. Newly standard for '05 is a memory system for both power front seats, not just the driver seat, plus power door mirrors that automatically tilt down when selecting Reverse. The extra-cost navigation system gets more-detailed screen graphics and a larger DVD database. It also now offers optional voice control, activated by steering-wheel buttons, for its navigation, audio, and climate functions. And the audio system is now preconfigured to accept dealer-activated satellite radio service. Returning options include power-adjustable pedals, premium Mark Levinson audio, CD changer, power rear sunshade, and xenon headlamps packaged with rain-sensing windshield wipers. The ES shares its basic design with the Camry from Lexus-parent Toyota.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.

Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus ES 330.