1999 Lexus ES 300 Review
1999 Lexus ES 300 Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Even though it's an entry-level Lexus, the ES300 offers plenty of comfort, convenience, and safety.
Cons
- Though more distinctive than in previous years, it still looks a little too Camry-like.
What’s new
A new 3.0-liter V6 engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) gives the 1999 ES 300 more horsepower, lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Optional Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) is available on the new ES as are one-touch open and close front windows and a one-touch operated moonroof.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1999 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$217/mo for ES 300 Base
ES 300 Base
vs
$181/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Vehicle overview
More than just a fancy Toyota Camry, the ES300 is an entry-level Lexus worthy of its nameplate. The most prominent feature of the ES300 is its aggressive snout, which juts forward with a large lower air dam and prominent fog lamps. The ES300's deep character lines along the hood and door panels work well, giving this car a distinguished appearance which is backed up by a Lexus claim that 75 percent of its major components, including engine, transmission and interior components, are unique to the ES300 or other Lexus Division models.
The engine was first introduced in the 1999 RX300 and makes 210 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque this year. Even more impressive is the effect that VVTi has on this 3.0-liter V6, making 80 percent of peak torque available at 1,600 rpm. A newly developed transmission uses computer control to adjust upshift and downshift patterns for improved responsiveness when climbing hills and enhanced engine braking when traveling down steep inclines.
These changes come with a reduction in weight for an overall improvement in performance as well as impressive fuel economy (19 mpg city/26 mpg highway).
Safety is also addressed by front and side airbags, standard electronic traction control, daytime running lights, and three point safety belts in all seating locations.
Let's not forget, however, that luxury is a key component of any Lexus and the ES300 has its fair share of convenience features. For example, a twist of the key fob will lower both front windows and open the power moonroof. A seven-speaker audio system with 195 watts of amplification is standard and a 215-watt Nakamichi sound system is optional. Then there's the usual array of heated mirrors, automatic climate control, 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, and California walnut wood throughout the interior.
It's nice to see the people at Lexus taking their entry-level car seriously. If luxury with a touch of performance is what you are looking for, consider the ES300.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1999 Lexus ES 300.
5 star(72%)
4 star(16%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(0%)
32 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
Real nice car
Steve Gaylor, 06/17/2005
1999 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
My 1999 Lexus ES 300 is a real nice ride that has given me no problems in six years. It's very comfortable to drive, performes well, has a great sound system, and is still like brand new after six years. It has 46,500 miles on it, and I have only just now had to replace one tail light and one front blinker light. The original battery lasted 5 years, as did the wiper blades. The car … has traveled around the country some, and has performed flawlessly, it's very dependable and enjoyable to drive. I'd like to trade up, but find it hard to part with such an exceptional car. I highly recommend the 99 Lexus ES 300 for. I see the car remaining in the family for many years to come, it's barely
3.13 out of 5 stars
1999 Lexus ES 300 4 Dr Std Sedan
Steve, 01/26/2010
1999 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
I bought the car used about a year ago because I had great luck with my 1994 Toyota Camry, 350,000 Miles before the engine quit. Unfortunately the engine is not even close to reliable as the Camry. I have spent over $2500 on repairs. Oxgen Sensors, 1 Coil, 1 Mass Air Flow Sensor, 2 VVT Actuators,2 Knock Sensors, Cam Seals. I consider myself a good mechanic and was not as concerned … when I purchased the car. Edmunds dead correct when they say this engine is a problem and the parts are very costly. I read that Coils, VVT Actuators, MAF, including the transmisson are an issue and should have listened. Also the LCD displays go out. If you must go to the dealer it is $200.00 diagnostic and $$
4.88 out of 5 stars
1999 Lexus ES 300
Don Sherman, 04/04/2009
1999 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
Car is in excellent condition save a slight mar on the driver's seat and a few parking lot dings. Everything works as new except for one digit on the LCD multi-CD disply. Excellent handling. Amenities are numerous and dependability is excellent. Quality control is evident throughout. Good acceleration and stopping. Great car for being a decade old.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Good car, but recently getting worse
NS, 09/14/2009
1999 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
I owned this car since 2001. From 2001-2008: was really happy with the car. Reliable, quiet interior. Comfy seats, good pickup. In 2009: my ES-300 started giving all kinds of problems. Power steering pump leaked-replaced it, O2 sensors went bad-replaced it, alternator died - replaced it. Check engine lights are on almost every month. Follow the routine-go to dealer, they do the … diagnostics, find the issue, replace the part, pay those hefty repair charges, and next month repeat the same thing. Just yesterday, heard that it's giving heavy knocking sound from engine. Within past 12 months, the repair cost has gone through the roof to almost $6000. Now I am seriously thinking about replacing the car.
1999 ES 300 Highlights
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $217/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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