2002 Lexus ES 300 Review

Price

$31,505

Likes

Nicely redone. Stylish. Smooth. Fast. Strong performance.

Dislikes

Lazy transmission downshifts. Tricky power window controls.

The revamped ES 300 sedan, top-selling car from Toyota's upscale Lexus division, shows automakers keep raising the bar in the growing near-luxury market.
The last ES 300, redesigned for 1997, has been one of the best models in that market, which generally is for cars with list prices of under $36,000. However, those familiar with the conservatively styled 2001 model might not recognize the new $31,505 model. It's switched to curving sheetmetal and a racy looking front end highlighted by sweeping, dramatically oversized headlights and a raked, sculpted hood.

As always, the front-drive ES 300 is based on the revamped new Toyota Camry, which also has zoomier styling to attract younger buyers. However, the ES 300 is a definite step up from the Camry. Lexus has lavished the larger new model with more comfort and luxury items. It's smoother, quieter and more refined than its predecessor.
However, while the new ES 300 is more closely aligned with the Lexus LS 430 flagship sedan, it still shares a similar platform and essentially the same V-6 with the Camry.

The ES 300 has a two-inch-longer wheelbase for a smoother ride. It's also 2.4 inches higher and sightly longer and wider for a roomier interior.
A redesigned unibody with new crush structures and passenger compartment reinforcements are among safety features, which include a front air bag designed with smaller drivers in mind and new side curtain airbags. A flat underbody and more noise-absorbing material reduce wind noise and make the car very aerodynamic and as quiet as many "pure" luxury cars.

The emphasis definitely is on luxury with the ES 300. If you want a sports sedan, Lexus would be happy to introduce you to the harder-edged IS 300 model, which can be had with a manual transmission.
The ES 300's interior is definitely upscale, with genuine wood interior trim. But it needs the $1,560 leather seat trim package, which has the same leather as the LS 430, and a $330 wood steering wheel similar to the one in that model to provide the most upscale look.

Not that the ES 300 isn't well-equipped; standard items include everything from a sunroof and power front seats to automatic dual-zone climate control and a premium audio system. There's even a purse hanger.
There are a fair number of options, which can run the price up to about $40,000. Stand-alone extras include $440 heated front seats and a $550 in-dash CD changer. Option packages contain many items, but are pricey. For instance, the package that has a navigation system, upgraded sound system, leather trim and memory driver's seat costs $3,960. There's also a $4,860 package with a Mark Levinson sound system.

The carryover 3-liter, 210-horsepower V-6 is exceptionally quiet and smooth. Acceleration is lively, but not neck-snapping (0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds). A new electronic throttle feature provides sharper accelerator pedal response, and the engine loafs at 2,500 rpm at 75 mph.
The new five-speed automatic transmission is superior to the old four-speed unit and provides seamless upshifts--but is a bit slow to downshift. Fuel economy is an estimated 21 mpg in the city and a commendable 29 on highways.

Handling and braking are above-average, thanks partly to larger wheels and tires, but the precise steering feels rather numb. And the all-independent suspension--mounted to anti-vibration subframes--is tuned more for a smooth ride than twisting roads.
The $650 traction control/skid control system enhances stability if you encounter slippery roads or are driving hard. It integrates the anti-lock brakes with the electronic brake force distribution, traction control and brake assist features.

There's also a $620 adaptive variable suspension with comfort and sport modes that some ES 300 buyers might appreciate, although it's not really needed.
Big outside door handles can be easily gripped, and there's plenty of room for four tall adults, with especially large, supportive front seats. The ignition switch is on the dashboard so you needn't grope for it on the steering column. Gauges can be read quickly, and large, smooth controls are within convenient reach. However, the front power windows are almost impossible to stop once they begin racing up or down. Rear windows don't go all the way down, but the big fold-down rear armrest contains cupholders.

The spacious trunk has a low, wide opening. The lid has manual hinges, but they have covers that prevent damage to cargo. The solidly built ES 300 feels as if it should last just about forever. That's good, because it's the type of car that owners generally want to keep for a long time.