2003 Lexus ES 300 reviews and buying
guide.
2003
Lexus ES 300 resources:
2003 Lexus ES 300
The 2003 Lexus ES 300 full-size sedan is a benchmark
for luxury without drastic increased prices. The Lexus
line has two vehicles designed for the “entry-luxury”
segment, the ES 300, and the IS 300, a more sport oriented
sedan. With changes for 2003 that include the option
of power-adjustable pedals, the ES 300 is even more
closely aligned with its posh big brother, the LS 430,
top of the Lexus sedan line.
Other changes include slightly larger dimensions, giving
the ES 300 more passenger room than previous generations
while aerodynamic refinements lower the co-efficient
of drag to 0.28, reducing wind noise and generally enhancing
performance. The design also included the use of more
sound absorbing material and, combined with assorted
other sound management technologies, the result is an
extraordinarily quiet driving experience.
Under the Hood
The power train on the ES 300 has, at its heart, an
aluminum 3.0-liter dohc V6 engine that produces 210
hp at 5,800 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400
rpm. The five-speed electronic automatic transmission
helps to enhance performance, driving smoothness and
fuel efficiency. Other innovations contribute to the
superior performance and handling enjoyed by Lexus owners.
The Lexus vehicles are leaders in safety and the ES
300 is no exception with class-leading standard equipment
in place. The Supplemental Restraint System features
advanced airbag technology. Dual front airbags are accompanied
by both front seat-mounted side airbags and pillar-to-pillar
side curtain airbags that help provide protection for
the head and upper body in a severe side impact. The
multi-stage front airbags are designed to deploy according
to impact force with an extra low stage on the drivers
side that responds to seat position. The ES 300 also
has antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution
(EBD), Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), electronic traction
control (TRAC) and Brake Assist (BA).
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The ES 300, has an extraordinary portfolio of interior
amenities for the entry-level luxury class, setting
a standard that other manufacturers struggle to maintain.
Items like dual-zone automatic climate control with
air filtration system, an audio system that features
a five-channel amplifier, seven speakers and Automatic
Sound Level (ASL) system that adjusts volume up or down
in response to ambient noise.
Optional upgrades include a high-end Mark Levinson
audio system in combination with a six-disc in-dash,
single-feed CD changer, or in a package with a DVD-based
navigation system with map storage containing the contiguous
United States and major cities in Canada, on one disc.
Among the many other details are power windows on all
four doors feature one-touch up/down control with pinch
protection while two more ideas borrowed from the LS
430 include water-repellent front door glass and four
door courtesy lamps that illuminate the ground and doorsill
areas. The Lexus ES 300 is one car designed with customer
comfort as a foremost priority.
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