Smitslex

I just sold my mom my es330 and i really liked that car, the interior lay out and everything. I didn't even have it that long but i wanted her to have a nice car. However, now i am thinking of getting a black on black 08 es350. Are the newers one's better then the older models? As far as the engine and reliability i wanted your guys thoughts.

kburk

Well with any newer vehicles especially ones from Lexus, of course you are going to have many upgrades with the newer models. No matter newer or older, Lexus is known for their unrivaled reliability. Furthermore the suspension on the newer models is even more on point in my opinion. You will have the smoothest, most comfortable ride on the road. If your looking for a comfortable, reliable, and stylish ride. This is most definitly the way to go...

Kyle

christcorp

Just a personal opinion. A friend of mine has a 2006 ES330. I have a 2007 ES350. While I may be a little partial towards mine, I don't believe there is any comparison. Granted, my ES350 has every option available; minus the full glass roof; and my friend's ES330 isn't quite as decked out; but minus the "FRILLS", there's a noticeable difference in the ride of the ES350 vs the ES330. The power, the comfort, and the handling. I drove both models prior to buying the ES350. I also drove the 400 series. I personally like the ES350 the best.

You will find some that say the interior of the 330 is better than the 350. You will even find some that say the 300 is the best of all three. Some of the opinions are going to be because of what the individual owns and therefor feels unintentionally obligated to rationalize what they own. I'm fortunate to be much older and financially able to afford any car I want. Even brand new if that's what I choose. I no longer have to "Settle" for what I buy. I simply buy what I want. No matter the price. And while I "Chose" to buy a used car, "Because you can get more bang for your buck vs a new car", I still chose the ES350 over the 400 series as well as the 330. "I didn't look at the older 300's".

But a lot of this is going to be about personal preference. Just like the individual who recently posted showing off his new 22" wheels. If he likes them, then that's all that matters. There's plenty of posters who didn't like them. That's not important. If I was you, I'd simply go out and check out the ES350. Drive it and feel it. Maybe you'll like it better. Maybe you'll like the 400 series better. Maybe you'll go out and find another 330 series. Maybe you'll buy an Audi or Infinity. It's your choice and your money. Best of luck.

hypervish

The 5th generation isn't all that appealing to me, especially the early versions due to some transmission issues. Not to mention, T/L cut a lot corners on this generation.

No doubt about it, the 4th generation ES is built to a far higher standard than the 5th generation. But, the 5th gen obviously has more features and creature comforts.

In the end, it all comes down to what you prefer.

Blueshark

I have a ES350 2008 ultra luxury option, bought it at 34 000km and now it's at 170 000km. Love the car because i have almost zero issues, only regular wear and tear. To really enjoy the car, it must have all the gadgets: panoramic glass roof top, ML, nav, rear shade, hid headlight. My ES can go to 300 000km no problem, i'm sure of it, so is my mechanic thoughts.

Now, I'm looking for a LS460, and full equiped is still a must.

Lexi66

What's the 400 series? Thanks!

RainaES350

iTrader: (1)

Wish I could give you more insights on the car but we haven't had it long enough to form a complete opinion...drives like a dream though.

christcorp

The LS series of cars. 400, 430, 460.

christcorp

I have to disagree. Mainly about the "Transmission Issues". Online forums usually consist of 2 basic people. 1) Enthusiasts and 2) People with problems. In other words, the majority of people, who never had any problems, don't post on the internet. This is the same with any car, computer, home appliances, etc.... Most of the people posting on the internet are looking for answers to a problem. The vast majority, who don't have problems, don't post.

What I'm saying is; the so called "Transmission Issues" of the ES350 series is exaggerated. Not saying that some people may not have had issues, but there are plenty of people who will tell you that their audi, mercedes, volvo, infinity, cadillac, etc.... all had issues and they suck. But the majority of people who own these cars will tell you that they work just right with no problems. My es350 (2007) doesn't have any "Transmission Issues".

hypervish

I agree that internet amplification makes the problem seem much worse than it is. But it's no secret that T/L were cutting costs left and right during this time period. This ES just doesn't compare quality wise to its predecessor the 4th generation ES (which is what the OP is comparing too, which is why I bring it up). You will find that many well regarded people agree with this.

It's all personal opinion. You are welcome to disagree.

LexBob2

I bought a 2007 ES350 right off the bat when it was launched in spring of 2006. What swayed me for it over the ES330 was the new 3.5 V6 and 6 speed transmission, both of which are still being used 8 model years later.

I preferred the exterior styling of the new model and adjusted to the interior. The car was problem free with zero warranty issues during entire the time I had it. I then bought a 2010 with the mid-cycle refresh and enjoyed that one even more than the 2007.

I think a person really has to try both and decide for themselves which one they prefer.

Rogarven

I seem to read about more problems with the 2007 than any of the other years. Is it because that was the new model year and T/L has had time to iron out the problems? Mine is a 09 and I love it.