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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  Not So Happy - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Michael Ranieri - December 27 - 8:56 pm

  I have the car since August. I have taken it back 3 times for an alignment. It pulls to the left. They have tried to fix it and they now tell me that is how it is. Because of the new tires and new style when you take your hands off the wheel it pulls to the left. I would not buy this model again. Otherwise it has nice options and look great.

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  Save money buy a regular Toyota - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By AZ Driver - December 16 - 6:23 pm

  After driving this vehicle for over a year I can only say I should have bought a Toyota and saved some money. Numerous rattles, transmission that cant seem to find the right gear and now there is a rather unusual clunk each time the drive train engages. Couple that with a drive train howl at around 60 mph and we are less than satisfied with this vehicle.

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  VERY SURPRISED - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MRBARRY - December 15 - 10:00 am

  I WAS SURPRISE HOW QUICK LEXUS WAS I WAS COMING OUT EXPLORER LIMITED V-8 AND THERE REALLY WAS NO DIFFERENCE IN QUICKNESS. GAS MILEAGE WAS MUCH BETTER. I AM WAITING FOR SOMETHING TO GO WRONG BUT HAS NOT HAPPEN. REALLY A FUN VEHICLE TO DRIVE AND I USE FOR WORK MOSTLY. THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I LEASE THIS WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND AGAIN I AM REALLY ENJOYING IT.

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  RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By kekaile - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful to be in, fun to drive. Enjoy the sun roof and auto rear door. Stereo and fuel economy could be better. Gears like butter, want a quicker response. Nice turning radius. Careful switching lanes on freeway due to wind/ height/ weight.

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  My 330 Lexus was the best choice for me! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By JacquieD - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Previously I drove an Infiniti Q4 and was happy with it but cant believe the difference in ride and the luxurious feel of my Lexus! Best of all, Germaine Lexus treats me like royalty. Now my Mother is driving a new 330 too! ( Shes a young 81 and can easily fit her golf clubs in the back. The automatic hatch is worth its weight i

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  EXCELLENT SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Charlene Brown - December 3 - 2:00 am

  IT A GREAT TRUCK AND I LOVE IT. ITS PERFORMANCE IS EXCELLENT. I ONLY HAD ONE PROBLEM AND THAT WAS THE ALARM SYSTEM. I BROUGHT IT BACK AND THEY FIX IT IMMEDIATELY. SERVICE IS EXCELLENT.

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  Top Luxury Med SUVDriving Experience - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By msclonly - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Finally, a comfortable SUV, that feels and drives like an Sedan. Does NOT feel like driving a truckor a tank. Easy getting in and out of with great visibility. Correct posture while driving prevents back and leg pains compared to a low sedan, which are not made for easy access, low back comfort, or healthy leg positions. The Navigation System has saved many miles of going around and around in circles, even with directions from several people, if they know anything at all. Great directions to unfamiliar locations. The NAV comes with the upgraded Levson sound system for the finest music heard in an auto, especially Classical. Picks up distant stations, eas

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  Slow in show - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By johoba - November 9 - 10:00 am

  I bought this baby and loved it. Now Im think on trading it in for Acura MX. I found the acceleration slowing down. Its getting sluggish and the pedal is getting stiffer.

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  RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By ctomseth - November 3 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. It can get expensive with options, but you get what you pay for. Even the "base" model is well-equipped and luxurious.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By paul1707 - November 1 - 5:50 am

  Just purchased this weekend. Great SUV! Very pleased with Honda Accords for the last 8 years but wanted to sit up higher but didnt want to bulk or fuel consumption of a full size SUV. Considered the Pilot but was too big for our needs. The RX 330 is has a very comfortable ride and Lexus dealership was excellent. Very happy with the performance so far and the Lexus reputation for excellent products and service. Lexus seems to have achieved a very balanced vehicle with safety features, fuel economy, and practicality