It's officially classified as a compact, but the ES 300 provides plenty of space for large adults in the front seats. The back seat comfortably accommodates three children, or two adults in stretches up to about 60 minutes. The trunk is good for a couple of golf bags, and larger than many in the class.One of the Lexus trademarks has been superior fit and finish for its dashboards, door panels and other interior surfaces. The ES 300 meets that standard. None of the plastic or vinyl surfaces look hard, brittle, or cheap. Judicious use of walnut trim and an outside temperature indicator add an expensive feel. The electroluminescent gauges pop in the brightest sunlight, yet are easy on the eyes in pitch dark. Nearly all switches fall intuitively to grasp with little distraction, and they work with a firm, satisfying click. Unfortunately, the memory buttons for the driver's seat are an exception. They're small, located on the side of the seat bottom, and troublesome to work in the dark. Most other manufacturers still mount their CD changers in the trunk. Lexus, on the other hand, has found a way to put the ES 300's changer in the dash, within easy reach of the driver or front passenger. And there's still adequate storage space for odds and ends in the cabin.
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