Overview & Reviews

Ever diligent in its "Relentless pursuit of perfection," Lexus completely revamped its RX 300 midsize luxury crossover SUV for 2004. This already popular model in the Lexus lineup received a radical makeover that included a new 3.3-liter V6 and a resultant new name: RX 330.

With the first-generation RX's style being deemed a bit too soft, stylists gave the new Lexus RX 330 a more aggressive character. A sharply angled grille and rearmost roof pillar gave the RX 330 more visual attitude, while more power, more backseat room, a number of new high-tech features and tighter handling made the RX better than ever before. Still, the folks at Lexus were careful to retain the beloved features of the previous model, and this meant keeping a plush ride, a rich cabin, fantastic build quality, a serene demeanor on the open road and a strong reputation for reliability intact.

Those who think driving is a passion and not just a necessity should know that the Lexus RX 330 is still not a sport-utility vehicle with a sport sedan personality. If you're looking for thrills on twisty roads you'd be better suited by a few other choices that trade off practical aspects such as passenger and cargo space for a sportier drive. But for the greater majority of used luxury SUV consumers who just want as trouble-free and comfortable an experience as possible when dealing with commuting, shuttling the kids around and taking weekend road trips to see the relatives, the RX 330 is hard to top.

Most Recent Lexus RX 330

Available from 2004 through 2006, the Lexus RX 330 brought more power, more room, more luxury features and more aggressive styling to Lexus' popular midsize luxury SUV.

Still loosely based on the Toyota Camry platform of the time, the RX 330 benefited from the same new V6. At 3.3 liters, the newer V6 produced 230 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque, increases of 10 hp and 20 lb-ft, respectively, over the RX 300's V6. A broader torque curve along with a new five-speed automatic transmission gave the RX 330 more kick off the line as well as more energetic passing and merging performance. Once again, buyers could choose front- or all-wheel drive. Towing capacity, at 3,500 pounds, was unchanged and still relatively meager compared to truck-based SUVs.

Standard luxury content increased slightly, as in addition to the expected automatic climate control and full power features there were now larger (17-inch) alloy wheels and a CD player. In addition to available leather seating, power moonroof and navigation system were new options that included a DVD entertainment system, a superb Mark Levinson audio system, an adjustable air suspension, adaptive cruise control, a back-up camera and adaptive headlights.

Safety was also improved, as in addition to stability control there were now larger side airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag and a tire-pressure monitor.

While it retained the quiet and refined demeanor of its precursor, the Lexus RX 330 was more athletic. Acceleration was noticeably stronger (at 7.8 seconds, it was a full second quicker to 60 mph than before) and, when equipped with the optional air suspension, handling was tighter. The RX was still not as involving a drive as a few of its German and home country rivals, which provide superior steering feel and communication to the driver.

Shoppers looking for a used Lexus RX 330 won't go wrong with any year, as changes were minimal throughout its brief run. The most notable upgrades occurred in 2005 when Lexus made the power rear hatch standard and the navigation system gained voice control. The final year of the RX 330 brought power lumbar support for the front passenger, while revised SAE testing procedures changed the engine's output rating from 230 hp to 223, though no actual performance was lost.

User Reviews:

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  Lexus RX 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By miriam1548 - August 10 - 2:00 am

  This is the most comfortible Lexus I have driven/owned. Its styling is classic and will be "in vogue" for many years.

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  Heaven on 4 wheels - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Joanie Kilpatrick - August 7 - 1:53 pm

  Ive always liked the looks of the RX300, but hesitated purchasing one due to what I felt were major flaws-the dark brown wood trim package, a serious blind spot, and the total lack of a console. I checked the auto show annually hoping theyld make the necessary corrections. My prayers were answered with the RX330. Bugs are gone, and features some grewere added such as a touch-button hydraulic lift gate, plus many more, making it the perfect choice. No other SUV matches the superior looks, inside and out

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  Fun Driving Machine - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Ron Schoenfeld - July 31 - 10:13 pm

  Great Looking fun SUV. Especially like the Double Moon Roof. Only negative is the car does not run as smooth as past Luxury Lexus Vehicles that weve had. All in all we love the car and have had little or no problems. This is our 5th Lexus and theyre still making the most reliable cars that weve ever owned. Would like to see them add a 3rd seat to the RX330.

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  Stunning Car-Truck - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By PatrickF - July 22 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has everything. It drives like a sports car, partly due to its 18" performance tires. It has more than enough power. It looks stunning. It is black with black leather interior with wood on the steering wheel and console. The new lines give it a sleaker appearance than the RX300, and not boxy like most cars of similar size. As you might expect from any Lexus, it has many other amenities including the 8 speaker stereo with 6- CD changer, auto-tinting rear view mirror, and heated front seats. On top of all that you get the top-of-the-line Lexus service. Great car/truck.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Flint 330 - July 22 - 10:00 am

  First Lexus vehicle I have owned and I am very impressed. I had an Acura before and I cant believe that the luxury is so much better. The styling inside and out is great and it is comfortable to drive.

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  JRs Revies - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By John Richter - July 16 - 10:30 am

  This car drives beautifully and handles well. The interior is spacious and extremely comfortable. The "sight lines" are excellent from the drivers seat. The automatic backup camera is a great addition and makes backing up less stressful.

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  Love it - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By ninabobina - July 4 - 2:00 am

  bought the car in october of 2004. its a great car.. wish i could have gotten the mark levinson audio system though. the lexus premium system that comes standard is weak.. if you are a true audiophile, spring for the upgraded system. too bad it only comes standard with the navigation package. makes it way too pricey.. hasnt given me any problems yet and i have 1800 miles on it so far.

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  The Flip Side - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By TAAWN - July 4 - 2:00 am

  One very noisy car. Had to modify/insert shocking absorbing material to eliminate rattling noise inside the car. No one knew what the problem was. Then window rattled and had to secure the harness inside the door. you need to turn up the volume so high to listen to CD. Then you better make sure that you turn it back down to listen to your radio. Not worth your money. With $40,000, you can do better!

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  Ouch - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By BAMCL - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Go SUPERLATIVE!! Except the front passenger seat - only a 4 way adjuster, and no upgrade option- most uncomfortable on long journeys. Driver seat is superb. Go SUPERLATIVE! Except the drive train - miserable clunks in trans/transfer case. Freeway slightest slopes its shifting up and down.

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  Two Thumbs UP! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Mr. Tea - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Excellent refined ride and feel. The Crystal White and Ivory rich leather is 1st class! Many improvements over the RX 300. Only minus is the standard 135 watt stereo system. Needs more power. The RX 300 had 210 watts and sounds a bit better. The Mark Levinson system should be standard on the Premium plus pkg.