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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  The RX 330 "has no clothes!" - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By "..has no clothes!" - September 27 - 8:16 am

  Seats do not compare to our Porsche or SAAB. Tilt function is simply inflation of seats leading edge. Arm rest way too short to be useful. Major fatigue on long trips, never really get adjusted. Lines of sight to check for vehicles in prep for lane change are awful. Again, comparison is to SAAB and Porsche. Throttle response delay is shameful and dangerous. Toyota excuses it as computer seeking correct response -- lame. No road feel. Wind noise and engine noise unacceptable for Lexus -- had an LS 430 that was whisper quiet. It was great in all respects -- this 330 is not great in any respect -- below average in many. Sorry we bought it within a month of purchase date.

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  Big Disappointment! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MountainDriver - April 25 - 10:00 am

  The Edmunds review couldnt be more wrong about the performance of the drive train and the "seamless shifting". 1) There is an annoying "clunk" when the car shifts gears (Dealer says Lexus is aware of this "condition" and that it is "normal" in the RX330). 2) Under mountain driving conditions, the car shifts in and out of passing gear (unless you downshift to 3rd). Lexus has a "fix" which is to "reburn the transmission".I cant tell that it made any difference whatsoever. 3) Finally, under mountain driving conditions, the RX330 seems less powerful than my 2001 RX300. This car is a big disappointment!

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  Soooo Disappointed! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By ockeetm - March 9 - 8:23 pm

  This was the wrong choice for me. Driving the RX 330 for approximately two weeks I am so very frustrated. It is so uncomfortable for anyone over 55 to drive. I am 57, the seat cushions are too short - gives no support under my knees. I have to move my seat back to stretch my legs out to be comfortable and not be on top of the gas pedal the whole time, restraining my foot from laying too heavily on the gas doing so. Then I have to drive with my arms outstretched in an awkward uncomfortable manner because the steering wheel does not telescope out far enough. Told my hubby to hurry and get rid of it. I will opt for an 04 LS 430 instead now and the 10 RX 350 in four years at a used car price.

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  Its a Lexus LEMON - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By dan4van - March 2 - 5:09 am

  Nothing but issues with the Transmission slip,jerks,jumps. My biggest complaint is that my Lexus RX 330 doesnt no what gear to use. Now it started to make that whinning noise. My lexus only has 74000 miles and its done. I am more that unhappy with Lexus so much money for a LEMON. Yes its been pampered all of its life and still give me problems. LEXUS NEVER AGAIN.

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  Dont bother - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By JamesB - October 12 - 10:00 am

  Lively vehicle with somewhat noisy motor. Comfort slightly snug for a large fellow. The acceleration doesnt seem too good. Good features for upper version cuv. Not very reliable, already have trouble with throttle.

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  Not what I expected - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By big spender - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Even though I bought this vehicle in May. I wish I had test drove it a little bit more. The engine noise is awful. Im getting average performance. I should have look at some other vehicle.

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  Lexus 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By hamathome - June 12 - 2:00 am

  a real dog. Transmission problems make the drive jerky. Have been told by repair people they have other similar compalints about transmission problem. We were told car will "adjust to our driving style." What???