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The Lexus ES sedan becomes the ES 330 for 2004 with the introduction of a larger and more powerful V6 engine. In addition, the ES 330 features larger side impact airbags (SRS), an improved optional satellite navigation system and new luxury details.

The 3.3-liter V6 engine, which replaces the previous 3.0-liter V6, produces 225 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 210 hp and 220 lb.-ft. in the ES 300. The larger-displacement engine endows the ES 330 with better performance, with the increased torque in particular providing the kind of response the customer can feel and appreciate in everyday driving situations.

The 2004 Lexus ES 330 is nearly a second quicker than its predecessor from 0-60 mph, at 7.2 seconds. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and a three-stage variable intake manifold (also featured on the previous version) give the ES 330 V6 engine a wide torque curve for quick response at virtually any speed. With the 3.3-liter V6, the ES 330 achieves the ULEV II (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) certification.

Lexus has also revised the standard five-speed automatic transmission for the 2004 edition, matching it to the performance of the larger engine. Wider gear ratios take advantage of the increased torque while enabling the ES 330 to achieve virtually the same EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings as the previous model (20 MPG city/29 MPG highway vs. 21/29 for the 2003 ES 300).

New grade logic enables the five-speed transmission to provide improved performance in hills, delaying upshifts to sustain power on inclines and holding a lower gear for increased engine braking on descents. Shifting smoothness has been improved, as well.

The optional Lexus Navigation System for the ES 330 has also been improved for 2004. As before, the system uses a DVD for map storage, containing the contiguous United States, plus major cities in Canada, on one disc. This system includes multi-language selection and very fast route calculation (about five seconds). The revised system features better, easier-to-understand graphics, a larger point of interest (POI) database and new convenience functions. New map modes show freeway exit information, an intersection guide, upcoming exits (a benefit if the driver passes an intended exit), points of interest at the exits and a compass.

The DVD map database now contains more than five million points of interest (POI), compared to two million before. The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles and New York features new "building footprint" graphics, which shows a 3D rendering of the building in its location. This feature can be useful for identifying buildings and their surroundings. As before, system functions include multi-route calculation, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode. The navigation system comes with a center-console mounted six-disc CD auto-changer as well as a single-disc player in the dash.

Lexus infused the ES 330 with luxury features similar to the LS 430 flagship sedan, such as dual-zone automatic climate control with an air filtration system. The standard premium audio system in both models features a five-channel amplifier and seven speakers. The ES 330 includes both a CD player and a cassette player. Automatic Sound Level (ASL) adjusts volume up or down in response to ambient noise. Like most Lexus models, the ES 330 offers an optional high-end Mark Levinson audio system in combination with a six-disc in-dash, single-feed CD changer, or in a package with a DVD-based navigation system. The optional power-adjustable accelerator and brake pedals that were introduced for 2003 now include a memory feature. The pedals give drivers greater adjustability for comfort.

The luxury ambience is further enhanced by standard footwell lighting, a center console LED interior light, and sun visor vanity mirror lamps that turn off automatically when the visor is closed. Genuine California walnut trim highlights the dashboard, center console and doors, which also feature chrome handles. One option that brings the ES 330 even closer to the LS 430 is a power rear sunshade that lowers automatically when the transmission is shifted into reverse. Additional luxury options include two-level heated seats, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with dynamic auto leveling, rain-sensing windshield wipers and an in-dash, single-feed, six-disc CD auto-changer with the available navigation system.

At base price of $31,725, the ES 330 offers solid value. R&D