What is the best year ES?
#1
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What is the best year ES?
I'm looking at the ES for a daily driver. I have considered it because i want something comfortable on my back after my is300 was t-boned by a careless driver and totaled.
What year ES is the best year? I was lookin at an 05 that i like i also like the new 07-08 but i want the most reliable year.
Thanks,
J
What year ES is the best year? I was lookin at an 05 that i like i also like the new 07-08 but i want the most reliable year.
Thanks,
J
#5
Lexus Champion
For the
3rd Gen ES, 2000-2001
4th Gen ES: 2005-2006
5th Gen ES: 2010-2012
Some would argue that the 2GR-FE engine in the newer models are not as tough as the older 1MZ/3MZ engines. The 4th Gen has a laggy transmission, so IMO the 3rd gen might actually be the best compromise of drive-ability and reliability if it was well cared for.
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Yes i found an 08 e350 for 15k and only has 78k miles. Looks clean. I also found an 05 with 95k miles for 10500. Out of those two years which one would be best choice? I need something for everyday driving. I'm currently driving a 04 solara.
#8
Lexus Champion
Based on Consumer Reports magazine, which only goes back to 2004, all ES300 Lexus models were rated to be much above average (the highest rating) for each one of those years (2004 to 2013).
The exception being the 2007 model year. It was only rated to be above average. (The second highest rating)
Phil
The exception being the 2007 model year. It was only rated to be above average. (The second highest rating)
Phil
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midibear (12-21-22)
#9
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Generation 2 was the best ES, but they are getting old and finding one in good condition that was properly maintained is difficult.
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midibear (12-21-22)
#10
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The 2008 is a larger, better looking and a much faster car with that 2GR engine, test drive both and see which one you like (I'd take the 08 for that alone). Make sure the oil line and electronic throttle recall has been done on any 07 & up model you consider.
Would you consider another IS or GS?
Last edited by speedkar9; 01-02-14 at 09:43 AM.
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Thanks man, i think i buy the 05 es330 black on black. Are the 05's pretty solid no transmission jerking or anything like that since the previous years. I assume it will be rock solid.
#12
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Transmission and throttle lag is the single most thing I hate about my 2005 ES330.
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No no, the transmissions are very jerky in 2002-06 models. It hunts for gears and combined with electronic throttle lag, makes for an annoying and un-engaging driving experience. Test drive it thoroughly in stop and go traffic before buying. There is no "flaw" according to the manufacturer, that's how they were programmed to work
Transmission and throttle lag is the single most thing I hate about my 2005 ES330.
Transmission and throttle lag is the single most thing I hate about my 2005 ES330.
When you say the solara as the same setup engine and trans shouldn't the solara have the same jerkiness as the ES? My solara does have a little bit of jerkiness sometimes but it's not constant. Do all Es330's have the transmission jerk or just some? What about the 08 does the 08 es350 ride smoother then the es330?