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:

• 

  Thank God I didnt buy the Caddy - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By terpesman - May 24 - 2:00 am

  I stopped into a Lexus dealer while testing the V8 SRX and am I ever glad I did. While not as powerful as the Caddy, the RX is much superior in every other way. Although the Infinity FX45 would have been my first choice based on looks alone, the rear seat room of the RX sealed the deal. (the kids appreciate the extra room) Great job, Lexus!

• 

  Great Ride!! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By jeremypool - May 19 - 10:20 pm

  I have had this vehicle for 3 years with no problems! The rear camera works great and the ride is very nice. My only complaint would be its slight stall when accelerating other then that the best car I have ever owned.

• 

  Better than I thought! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Pammie-Pooh - May 13 - 10:00 am

  This car rides smooth, is easy to handle and has excellent fuel economy. I had a Toyota Sequoia and cant believe the difference in gas consumption of the RX330. Turning radius is excellent and I feel that the vehicle is very safe.

• 

  My DreamCar - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By jutz - April 23 - 10:00 am

  The moment I had myself holding the steering wheel and drove it on the highway for a test drive, I knew on that moment that RX330 is the car I dreamed to have. My very first luxury car..and really very very proud to own it. One regret I have, is not taking the ultimate optional package. I settled for Premium Plus Package. Overall, it is still the BEST CAR!!!

• 

  2004 RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By bs - April 8 - 12:06 am

  First Lexus - should never have waited this long for a Lexus!

• 

  New SUV owner - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By gemajean - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I never liked SUVs as the gas mileage and stance was less than ideal, however, this RX has changed me. The ride is like a high end luxury car and youll never know you it that youre in an SUV. The fit and finish is impressive and the ride is unbelievably soft and smooth. Weve tried the BMW and the Touraeg and I must say that this is the best of the luxury SUV market. First Lexus car owned and most certainly not the last.

• 

  Best Vehicle Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By O Comora - March 29 - 7:40 pm

  Fun to drive. Placement of some dashboard button Needs Improvement. Transmission shifting is hesitant sometimes but overall, its best vehicle Ive ever owned.

• 

  Getting Spoiled by Lexus - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Allan - March 20 - 2:50 am

  Have a dressed up RX330 with navigation. Have been very impressed with quality, comfort, quiet ride, performance, handling. Have talked with friends whove driven Lexus for 20 years and never needed a repair. Dealership was great, service is great, car is fun to drive. My wife is primary driver, and I thought I would never get her out of her Land Rover (she has a phobia about running into a deer). After one day in the Lexus, shes never gone back to the Land Rover, and will probably buy Lexus from now on. Only complaint: not enough storage bins in front (no place for parking/toll change). Could take a lesson from the Toyota Sienna XLE. Could use parking sonar, too.

• 

  Happyissimo - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Slope - March 17 - 10:00 am

  Totally satisfied. Drives like a car. Totally practical.

• 

  Great SUV...Very Satisfied - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By RXDRIVER0509 - March 16 - 4:16 pm

  I bought my RX330 about 3 1/2 months ago. Pearl White with Beige leather. Overall I am very satisfied with the RX. I think the exterior is very attractive...clean and not over the top. The interior is also very nice. The leather has held up well. The seats are long haul comfortable. The power tilt steering wheel is a nice touch. The power rear door has also come in very handy. I get a respectable 23 mpg city/28 mpg highway. The transmission is very smooth, but I feel the engine is a little underpowered. Mine has the 18" chrome wheel pkg, which seems to ride well. The dual DVDs are nice, but not something I needed. No issues with anything, and the Lexus dealer has been top notch.