[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-value-text”]Few consider it an excitement machine, but the ES 300 is a highly civilized near-luxury sedan. In fact, it’s almost a baby LS 430, with its own high levels of comfort, refinement, and amenities. Impressively delivering all that it promises, the well-built ES 300 is a solid Best Buy, new or used. Still, a Camry XLE V6 approaches ES polish at a far lower price.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-overview-text” title=”Overview”]
Redesigned for 2002 along with Camry models at parent Toyota, the ES 300 gained a greater emphasis on luxury. New curtain side airbags were installed, along with front torso side airbags, and a five-speed automatic transmission replaced the prior four-speed. A navigation system joined the options list, with a three-position tilt screen.
As before, this Lexus model shared its basic design with the Camry. A 3.0-liter V6 engine returned, with the same 210-horsepower rating. In addition to new styling, the sedan grew 2 inches in wheelbase and about an inch in length and width. Height increased by 2.4 inches.
New 16-inch wheels replaced the previous 15s. The 2002 model also featured a trip computer, dual-zone automatic climate control, and automatic up/down operation for all side windows. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes were installed.
Lexus options included leather upholstery, premium Mark Levinson audio, a power rear sunshade, and an in-dash or console-mounted CD changer. High-intensity headlamps were packaged with rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Lexus’s Adaptive Variable Suspension option featured driver-selectable shock absorber settings. This near-luxury sedan from Toyota’s luxury division competes against the Acura TL, Audi A4, Infiniti I35, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
2003 ES 300/ES 330
Optional power-adjustable pedals were the main 2003 addition to Lexus’s luxury-oriented entry-level sedan. Lexus’s optional Vehicle Stability Control antiskid/traction system included a full-power brake-assist feature.
2004 ES 300/ES 330
Lexus substituted a new 3.3-liter V6 for the prior 3.0-liter, prompting a name change to ES 330. The new engine produced 15 more horsepower and 20 additional pound-feet of torque. Curtain side airbags grew in size this year,and optional power-adjustable pedals gained a memory feature.
2005 ES300/ES 330
Lexus’ best-selling car gets minor styling changes and several first-time features for 2005. 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.
2006 ES300/ES 330
2006 brings the additional option of satellite radio.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Engines”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text title=”Engines” disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-engine-section-head”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-powertrains”]transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-powertrain-text”]In 2002-03, a 210-hp, 3.0-liter dual-overhead-cam V6 engine went into the ES 300, working with a five-speed automatic transmission. For 2004, Lexus exchanged the 3.0-liter for a new 3.3-liter V6 that produced 225 horsepower, prompting a name change to ES 330.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_table style=”style2″ el_class=”used-engine-specs”]
An ES 300 delivers strong standing-start acceleration, measured at 8.2 seconds for the 0-60 mph dash. Midrange pickup also is brisk, though the smooth automatic transmission hesitates to kick down for passing, and its zigzag selector gate frustrates manual shifting.
When new, test cars have averaged as low as 17.4 mpg (with gas-eating performance tests), up to a high of 21.1 mpg. Both engines require premium fuel.
Yielding a remarkably isolated ride, the ES 300 is the class benchmark for near-luxury comfort and absorbency. That benefit is compromised only by mild pattering on broken pavement and modest float on big humpbacks. The optional Adaptive Variable Suspension is too soft in Comfort mode, a bit too hard in Sport, and feels like the regular chassis on in-between settings. It delivers no ride/handling advantages.
Competent, drama-free front-drive behavior is an ES hallmark, but the ride-biased damping precludes the controlled cornering poise of an Acura TL or BMW 3-Series. Steering could use better feel, too. Braking is powerful and swift, but substantial nosedive prevails in “panic” stops.
Perhaps the class leader in quietness, the ES is highly refined. The V6 is nearly silent at idle, and subdued in hard charging. Wind and tire noise are exceptionally low.
Instruments and controls are simply exemplary, in the Lexus style. The optional navigation system takes less time to learn than most. It governs many audio settings, but no climate functions. The screen has a three-position tilt for daytime legibility, but must be powered open to access tape/CD slots. Interior assembly is hard to fault.
Front seats are comfortably supportive, but might hug larger persons too tightly. Leg room is ample, but head room is just adequate for six-footers beneath the available sunroof. Styling hampers visibility aft and over-the-shoulder.
The back seat is wide enough for two adults, who will ride slightly knees-up with front seats fully rearward. You get good under-seat toe room, but just adequate six-footer head clearance beneath the sunroof. Entry/exit is easy.
Though usefully roomy, the trunk’s opening isn’t tall enough to swallow big boxes. Bulky trunklid hinges intrude, but are covered to prevent damaging cargo. Fold-down rear seatbacks are absent. In-cabin stowage is good, but not great.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_content_box icon=”icon-road” heading=”Ratings” el_class=”ratings-box”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″]Model Tested: 2002 Lexus ES 300[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″ el_class=”review-slideshow-caption”]Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-performance-ratings” title=”Performance”][mk_skill_meter title=”Acceleration – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Fuel Economy – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Ride Quality – 8″ percent=”80″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Steering/Handling – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Quietness – 8″ percent=”80″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Accommodations” el_class=”used-accomodations-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Controls/Materials – 8″ percent=”80″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Front – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Rear – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Cargo Room – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Other” el_class=”used-other-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Value – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-ratings-total”]
Brake noise
Description: Noisy front brakes are fixed by replacing both the pads and rotors with improved parts. (2002-03)
Steering problems
Description: The tilt steering wheel may not release after being fully lowered requiring repositioning of the wiring harness in the steering column. (2002)
Battery
Description: The battery dies on cars that spend a lot of time idling or driven infrequently for which there is a revised alternator. (2002-03)
None
Description: A squeaking, creaking noise from the front end is caused by a rubber tube on the spring and the spring upper insulator, which may be replaced. (2002)
None
Description: The gas cap can be occasionally hard to remove and replacement caps are being provided. (2002-03)
2002 ES 300
Description: Vehicles may have a deformed left front brake tube, leading to possible brake fluid leaking and impaired stopping ability. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2002 ES 300
Description: If the airbag deploys, it could cause a section of the horn cover on the steering wheel to strike the driver. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2004-05 ES 300/330 with power passenger seat
Description: When installing certain rear-facing infant seat bases onto seat with excessively high belt tension, buckle status switch could become unseated and system might not suppress deployment of the front airbag.
2004-2005 ES 330 with 1MZ-FE or 3MZ-FE engine
Description: Inadequate adhesive between outer and inner ring in the crankshaft pulley could lead misalignment, causing noise, illumination of the battery discharge indicator light, and/or loss of power steering.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”hidden-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_accordions style=”fancy-style” action_style=”accordion-action” open_toggle=”0″ container_bg_color=”#fff”][vc_accordion_tab title=”Equipment Lists”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]Click on year to see equipment lists for all models offered for that model year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=”2002″][mk_table style=”style1″ el_class=”used-equipment-table”]
2002 Lexus ES 300
Pricing Effective: 10/11/2001
Model Pricing
Retail Price
Dealer Price
Destination
Base 4-door sedan
$ 31,505
$ 27,935
$ 575
Price Note:
Standard Equipment
Base : 3.0-liter dohc V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 10-way power driver seat w/power lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, center console, cupholders, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, power sunroof, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener, overhead console, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, trip computer, map lights, variable-intermittent wipers, remote fuel-door and decklid release, automatic-off headlights, floormats, theft-deterrent system, fog lights, full-size spare tire, 215/60VR16 tires, alloy wheels
Optional Equipment
Option Note: Postproduction options also available.
Major Packages
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Leather Trim Pkg.
$1560
$1248
Leather upholstery, driver-seat and mirror memory.
Premium Pkg.
2110
1688
Leather upholstery, driver-seat and mirror memory, in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Mark Levinson Audio Pkg.
3010
2363
Premium Pkg. plus Mark Levinson sound system.
Navigation System Pkg.
3960
3261
Premium Pkg. plus navigation system. Moves in-dash CD changer to console.
Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Pkg.
4860
3936
Navigation System Pkg. plus Mark Levinson sound system. Moves in-dash CD changer to console.
Safety
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Antiskid system
650
520
Includes traction control, full-power brake assist. Requires leather upholstery.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Heated front seats
440
352
Requires leather upholstery.
In-dash 6-disc CD changer
550
440
Requires Leather Trim Pkg.
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
330
264
Requires leather upholstery.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
High-intensity discharge headlights
640
512
Includes rain-sensing wipers. Requires leather upholstery.
Base : 3.3-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 10-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (front seats, mirrors), center console, cupholders, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/automatic day/night and passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, compass, outside-temperature indicator, map lights, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats, theft-deterrent system, fog lights, full-size spare tire, 215/60VR16 tires, alloy wheels
Optional Equipment
Option Note: Postproduction options also available.
Major Packages
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Navigation System Pkg.
$2200
$1843
Navigation system, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, voice-activated controls.
Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Pkg.
3100
2518
Navigation System Pkg. plus Mark Levinson sound system.
Special Edition
600
480
Unique interior and exterior trim.
Preferred Accessory Pkg.
194
116
Cargo mat and net, wheel locks.
Safety
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Antiskid system
650
520
Includes traction control, brake assist.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Heated/cooled front seats
640
512
Power-adjustable pedals
140
112
Includes memory.
In-dash 6-disc CD changer
550
440
Satellite radio
486
389
Requires monthly fee.
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
330
264
Power rear sunshade
210
168
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Xenon headlights
640
512
Includes rain-sensing wipers.
Adaptive Variable Suspension
620
496
Requires antiskid system, xenon headlights.
215/55VR17 tires
360
288
Chrome alloy wheels
2060
1030
Includes 215/55VR17 tires.
[/mk_table][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordions][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”visible-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Equipment Lists”]Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Pricing”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-pricing-text” title=”Pricing”]Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section]
