Lexus ES Fourth generation (XV30)

2002 to 2006
Overview
Also called	Toyota Windom (Japan)
Production	July 2001 – February 2006
Model years	2002–2006
Assembly	Japan: Miyawaka, Fukuoka (Miyata plant); Susono, Shizuoka (Higashi Fuji plant)Toyota, Aichi (Tsutsumi plant)
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size car
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform	Toyota K platform
Related	Toyota Camry (XV30)
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6
Transmission	5-speed U151E automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,720 mm (107.1 in)
Length	4,854 mm (191.1 in)
Width	1,811 mm (71.3 in)
Height	1,455 mm (57.3 in)

As development on the XV30 Camry began in 1997, development of the MCV30 commenced under Kosaku Yamada, with styling being done from 1998 to 1999. The larger, fourth-generation ES (designated MCV30) debuted in July 2001 for the 2002 model year, one year after the Lexus IS became Lexus' entry-level car. The presence of the IS in the Lexus lineup enabled the company to give the new ES 300 a more upscale image and luxury feel by excising the sporting pretensions of the previous ES models. The more aerodynamic shape had a drag coefficient of Cd=0.28. In Japan, the MCV30 Windom received a 2-star LEV rating.

Production occurred between July 2001 and September 2004 at the Tsutsumi plant in Toyota, Aichi supplemented until December 2002 with the Miyata plant at Miyawaka, Fukuoka. In January 2003, production started at the Higashi Fuji plant at Susono, Shizuoka, lasting until the XV30 ended production in February 2006.

The cabin was fitted with California Walnut wood trim on the front dashboard, center console, and doors as well as exterior puddle lamps, floor-well lighting, chrome door handles, an electric rear sunblind, and rear-view mirrors that would automatically tilt downward in reverse gear. Available options, including a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a DVD-based navigation system, and a Mark Levinson premium stereo system, were similar to features on the flagship LS 430 sedan.

Other features included a drive-by-wire electronic throttle, a five-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist as well as electronic stability and traction control systems. The fourth-generation Lexus ES was built in Kyūshū and Toyota, Aichi, Japan.

ES sales sold 71,450 units its first year, making the Lexus ES the best-selling luxury car in the United States. Throughout its production run, the fourth-generation ES was Lexus' best-selling sedan, and outsold only in the Lexus model range by the RX luxury utility vehicle.

U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test results in 2003 rated the ES 300 the maximum five stars in the Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, and Side Driver categories, and four stars in the Side Rear Passenger and Rollover categories.

2003–2006

During 2003, for the 2004 model year, the American market received a revised 3.3-liter engine producing 168 kilowatts (225 hp) (later revised to 163 kilowatts (218 hp), because of changes in SAE power testing procedures), and the car was renamed the ES 330 (codename MCV31, however, the 3.0 L engine MCV30 model was still available). Lexus released the limited ES 330 "SportDesign" special edition in 2004. The model featured the Adaptive Variable Suspension, 17-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, Mark Levinson audio, interior upgrades, and special dark exterior colors.

In 2004 for the 2005 model year, the ES received a facelift with new front and rear fascias, clear taillights, projector headlights, and a redesigned grille. Inside, features included standard audio and display steering wheel-mounted controls, power adjustable pedals, heated and ventilated front seats, Bird's Eye Maple trim and optional integrated satellite radio. Lexus also offered an exclusive ES 330 "Black Diamond Edition" in 2005, featuring black wood trim, iridescent Black Diamond paint, and a set of Tumi luggage.

 

Technical specifications