2003 Lexus ES 300 Road Test

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Close to Perfection

Im not sure who the Japanese counterpart of magician David Copperfield is, but Id wager he or she had a hand in the 2003 Lexus ES 300.

How else to explain full-size interior space found in a mid-size sedan? In addition to the big car feel inside, a silky smooth ride adds further to the illusion. How smooth and quiet? Even after driving the ES 300 for a week I still found myself glancing down at the tach to be sure the engine was running.

With a bit of magic and some slight of hand, a full-size interior appears in the mid-size ES 300. (Photo: Lexus)

The 2003 version of the popular entry-level luxury sedan differs little from the 2002 model, the sole new addition being an optional power-adjustable accelerator

Little has changed from last years model, aside from adjustable pedals. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

and brake pedals.

In 2002, the ES 300 was totally redesigned, representing the fourth generation of the front-wheel drive sedan that was first introduced in 1991 - the ES250, the 300s predecessor, debuted in North America in 1989.

The ES 300 is powered

The ES 300 is powered by an extremely quiet 3.0-litre V6. (Photo: Lexus)

by an aluminum 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower. As mentioned earlier, the powerplant is extremely quiet and refined, and the five-speed electronic automatic transmission helps enhance performance, driving smoothness and fuel efficiency. On that last count, the ES 300 gets similar mileage to a VW Jetta, yet offers much more room inside and out.

It is clear from its design, layout

Lexus is shooting for style and comfort as opposed to design and performanace. (Photo: Lexus)

and performance that it wasnt made with sport driving in mind. For that, see the rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 300.

Rather, the ES 300 will appeal to those much more interested in traveling in style and comfort. As much as the understated and uninspired exterior design fits into that buyer category. I still cant help but find the look and performance pretty boring. As far as criticism goes, thats about all I can muster.

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