My Lexus ES330

That's my new car! I bought it last year. Ok, fine, it's a year old. It's a Lexus ES330. My old car was a Lexus RX300. This time, I thought I would go back to driving a sedan.

I love driving a Lexus. This is my second Lexus car because I guess, I was pampered with luxury of my older RX300. I love that SUV. I love to drive it in the snow, in the rain and even driving long distance to Toronto, Canada!

I thought, I might have a culture shock going back to driving a sedan. Well, in the beginning it felt weird. Before, I have a nice view of the road, well not anymore. By you see, driving an ES330 is completely amazing!

It is luxurious without any hesitation! The ergonomics are excellent. Minimum of buttons and knobs; large and readable instruments; everything falls to hand. The supple cream leather is gorgeous. Real wood grows out of a handsome dash, set off by titanium accents.

Is it quick? Should be, thanks to the addition of more horses and more torque. And yes, the 2005 Lexus ES330 takes off like a sprinter's explosion from the starting blocks. The ES330 felt heavy, not helped by a transmission that sometimes was a tad slow in kicking down. In the curves the 2005 ES330 seemed to be nicely balanced but the lack of side support in the front bucket seats prevented an analysis. Wind and road noise go unnoticed as extra sound insulation plays its part, helping to make the ES330 quiet and comfortable. I did appreciate the Mercedes-like notched gearchange, enjoyed the responsive steering, was pleased with the tight turning circle. If only those seats offered more support I could be happy here.