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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  2004 Lexus RX330 Review - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By nickname - April 27 - 10:00 am

  It is really fun to drive and the styling is superb! The interior is elegant, but could be improved.

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  Get what you pay for - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By RX330 Lover - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the best SUVs out there. If you are looking for one with confortable ride, but dont care about the horse power, this is the SUV to go. Very attractive interior design.

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  2005 RX330 Thundercloud Specail Edition - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By Fernando Flores - April 10 - 2:23 pm

  After much research I went with the Lexus Thundercload Special Ed. Thus far, I have been VERY pleased with the performance, style and quality of the vehicle. I was a little disappointed with a few minor interior items that came standard in less expensive cars, such as: A place to put trash. I had to buy a small trash bag and carry that with me; Insufficent driver storage places. All you get is a large center console; Two buttons to operate the moonroof (tilt/open) instead of one. But I easily overlook these when compared with all the features and style this puppy comes with like the NAV system, rear camera and Bluetooth. VERY satisfied.

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  Poor experience - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By mjw5935 - April 10 - 9:53 am

  I bought a fully optioned 2004 RX330 and was sadly disappointed. The sports transmission has terrible hesitation that boarders on dangerous in traffic driving and the seat has a clicking noise that I cannot seem to resolve. In addition after the first 6,000 miles (during the first tire rotation) I was informed that the front end was not in alignment. Unfortunately the dealer was unable to help me with the transmission and I have not returned for the other factors yet. Very disappointed for a 50k+ vehicle.

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  Worth Every Penny. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Chris_ - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This is definitely a topnotch suv. You can have it all with the RX330 very exquisite styling inside and out. Plenty of power under the hood and the fuel economy is just unmatched by any other suv.

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  Safety Problems - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Shankadelic - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Great car, but the headlights are very, very unsafe, lacking any light dispersion. But for the light issue, and, as a result, my wifes unwillingness to drive at night, its a good car. We had a few problems with the computer when we started, and there was a recall for a manifold problems.

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  My 3rd RX - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By Tony F - April 5 - 7:16 pm

  I have owned two RX 300s prior to purchasing the RX 330, each one has been better than the last. In between my 2000 RX 300 and I purchased the Toyota Highlander, which is a good vehicle. But, I missed the extra special treatment I received from my Lexus dealer. When I walked in the door they all remember me and welcome back into the family. Its good to be back.

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  Happy with our Purchase.... - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By SR in NC - April 3 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I bought a 2004 RX330 and absolutely love it! The ride is just like and car and the styling is pure Lexus. The only negative is the fuel economy is not what I was expecting. Overall, we are very Happy!

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  Well worth it. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Thebeeguy - April 3 - 2:00 am

  This car handles very well in snow and ice. During a tight turn, it automatically corrected itself. Probably the safest car on the market.

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  We Love Our Lexus RX 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Peter Finney - April 3 - 2:00 am

  We love everything about our car.We live in the Northwest and experience snow and icy roads"It handles great!" Very smooth ride.The grandkids love the DVD system and on short or long trips it is great. It was worth the money.