2004 Lexus ES 330 - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Lexus ES 330 Buying Resources:
2004 Lexus ES 330 Review:
The 2003 Lexus ES 300 became the 2004 Lexus ES 330 with an
increase in engine size that matches the emphasis on performance
visible in all Lexus’ changes this year.
Already a benchmark for luxury amenities, this full-size
sedan is competitive in the “entry-luxury” segment, and the
power upgrade is an enhancement where it counts. Sensibly,
a couple of safety enhancements follow the power upgrade.
Front torso and head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard
equipment and improved from last years optional extra with
bigger bags. The usual collection of Lexus extras is also
available allowing the buyer to select those enhancements
that are most important to them and save money compared to
cars that equivalently equipped.
Under the Hood
The new power train on the ES 330 has, at its heart, an aluminum
3.3-liter dohc V6 engine that produces 225 hp at 5,600 rpm
and 240 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3600 rpm, a major advance
on last years yet without a significant increase on mileage
which remains impressive at 20/29 mpg (city/highway) The five-speed
electronic automatic transmission remains the sole transmission
option. Other innovations contribute to the superior performance
and handling enjoyed by Lexus owners.
Aerodynamic refinements from 2003 lowered 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. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are
standard, while an antiskid/traction-control system is an
option, along with Lexus' Adaptive Variable Suspension with
driver-selectable shock-absorber settings.
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. Electronic
Brake force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Skid Control (VSC),
electronic traction control (TRAC) and Brake Assist (BA) are
available to control the power.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The ES 330 sets a high standard for standard interior amenities
for the entry-level luxury class, and other manufacturers
struggle to meet it. 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 are examples of this.
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. Xenon headlamps packaged
with rain-sensing windshield wipers and a power ear sunshade
put the icing on the cake for pure customer comfort.
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