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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  Gotten better but still needs tweeking - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By paintballer1 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle drives very nice. The rear glass is a litle more slanted than my previous RX300 which makes it difficult for my dogs to be comfortable. Overall the vehicle can fill my peoples needs.

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  A van in SUV clothing - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Zac in Jax - November 12 - 5:53 am

  The RX 330 is a great vehicle for running errands around town. It is extremely comfortable and its looks are eye-catching. Load carrying capacity is limited by the sharply angled rear door. It doesnt hold as much as you would expect for an SUV. On the highway, it handles like a mini- van. The car-based construction makes for a too soft, underpowered ride. With cruise control on, the engine constantly downshifts at the slightest rise in the road, such as going over a bridge. Definitely needs stiffer suspension and more power.

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  2006 RX 330 - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By lakeend - November 3 - 2:16 pm

  Great all around vehicle. Plenty of room in back and for luggage. Rides very nice. As trouble free as an car on the road.

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  Not that great! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By AT - October 8 - 4:10 pm

  The issues with my car: the rear door wouldnt open with the remote, the roof rack wouldnt move back and forth, the leather under the head rest was torn, the wiper mist was not working. They dont charge me for fixing these issues. But my understanding is that some of these issues are not supposed to be issues because they are supposed to get inspected before they certify it. So I guess you can not really believe the Lexus certification process. Also the rear door issue seems to be a recurring issue. It still wouldnt open some times after 3 attempts to fix this.

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  Love/Hate - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By tuomala1 - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Overall I really like this car but it developed an annoying clunking noise on downshifts after about 5,000 miles. Lexus says this is normal for this car. If this type of problem would bother you, ask the dealer about it before you buy. If they dont acknowledge knowing anything about it, think twice or you may regret it later.

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  No. Va. RX 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Don in Va. - September 1 - 10:00 am

  The car is quiet, fast, and comfortable for an SUV. I have yet to find anything to complain about in the RX 330s bodywork, interior or engine. I do, however, have a complaint about the transmission. At very low speeds (common when commuting in the Washington DC area), the transmission seems to slip into a sort of nuetral. It does this with a pronounced clunk, and re-engages with another clunk. Three trips back to the dealer have not produced their acceptance that this is a problem. Hopefully they will acknowledge that this is not characteristic of a luxury SUV, nor is it symblomatic of Lexus reputation for quality and customer service.

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  Jens Review - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Jenn - August 12 - 5:53 am

  Love to drive, love the design, had problems w/ tires & radiator, so many features in the cargo/ truck area, like first aid kit. You dont close the trunk it automatically does it for you. The sound sytems is great. The leather is very soft. Overall, it was the best car I ever bought in my lifetime.

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  Not too thrilled - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By miami1 - July 16 - 10:20 am

  The car handles beautifully and the ride and acceleration is good. I was in a VW Toureg before and miss the weight. It is too light for me.

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  Not up to Par - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Pike - July 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th new Lexus since 1990. Build quality is bad and not up to Lexus Standard. Transmission even with the re-program is worst I have driven. At 30 to 40 MPH gears change very rough. Based on the Lexus name and high rating from Consumer Report Lexus is not willing to admit a problem. Gas mileage is very sub par, and high wind noise from side view mirror and roof rack

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  Day 2 Review - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Steve - June 5 - 4:00 am

  Downsized from LX470 due to longer commute to new job. Ive driven many of these as loaners when the the LX was getting scheduled maintenance. RX handling is light, tossable, but the ride quiet with smooth. A little more outside noise vs. LX. Acceleration is brisk and so much easier on the gas too.