speedkar9

While the cars share the same engine and transmission, they are tuned differently for each car. (Hence why it makes different HP/ Torque ratings for each car). Given the complaints on here (and my personal experience), the ES330 is one of the worse offenders of throttle lag and transmission quirkyness. Needless to say, other owners have reported no problems with their cars, so your best bet is to thoroughly test out the vehicle in stop and go traffic - where the problem manifests itself the most.

With that aside, the ES330 is a very reliable, good quality, smooth, quiet and comfortable car for everyday commuting.

We've also got a 2nd gen Sienna in our family with the same 3.3L engine and transmission. The throttle lag is definitely noticeable, but the transmission shifts a tad better in my opinion.

I haven't seen as many complains on the ES350 about the throttle lag. When I test drove a 2012, I don't recall much lag, but boy is that thing fast!

davensd

I think rather then simply looking at the year, you should rather consider the overall condition of the car and how well it was maintained. A well maintained 2006 will far outlast a 2010 that has never had an oil change.

Mechanically all ES3x0 have excellent reputations and are known to last.

davensd

Smitslex

I'm going to get the 05 with 95k miles that has be maintained at the dealer. I am buying it having it shipped from the Lexus dealer. I really hope the transmission lag isn't present in the model. After reading all the neg reviews on the transmission im starting to wonder if i am making the right decision.

speedkar9

Is there no way you can test drive it first to see for yourself how the throttle/transmission feels?

Has the timing belt and water-pump been changed?

Congrats on your purchase, remember to keep up on maintenance.

Level99Jew

I've got a 2003 (4th gen) and I really don't recommended it. The transmission is ****ing terrible, and the chassis and a majority of the internal parts are from a Camry.