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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  Lux Ride - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Jay Gee - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Just got my RX330 with the Navi.. It is by far the most luxurious suv in its class. The ride is the smoothest I have ever experieced in ANY vehicle..BUT there is one aspect where the lex falls short and that is in handling. Although everyday driving is wonderful, spirited driving leaves something to be desired. I guess you cant have it all. I drove the FX prior to opting for the RX, the Infiniti handles incredibly well but the ride comfort is VERY poor.

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  A converted SUV Hater - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Dr.Jesse - March 29 - 10:00 am

  As a previous SUV hater,and having been severly injured by one with a drunk driver 9/03 spending 6 weeks in a hospital/rehabilation unit, I am very suprised and pleased to say that I am enjoying owning and driving this beautiful and luxurious vehicle!!! Its been much more than I had expected in terms of comfort,style and safety (more airbags than any other vehicle in production).

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  Great RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By poipu - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Have had the 2004 model for almost a year and still love it. It is a sturdy, stylish and performance oriented vehicle. Having driven all of the other brands in its class, the RX330 is superior in quality and price.

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  Great SUV for $ - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By mombo - March 24 - 10:00 am

  Had RX 300 for 3 1/2 yrs prior. Many improvements and added niceties. Only have for 1 month so far, but so far so good. Never had a problem with prior one, which has made me come back.

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  my first lexus - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By kamal - March 23 - 3:16 pm

  Most luxurious, reliable SUV for the price.

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  Great Improvement/High Price - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By lexusxthree - March 3 - 10:00 am

  We previouly owned a 2000 & 2001 RX300. The overall handling and ride is a leap forward. Comfort has also improved to where it is comparable to Mercedes Benz. Because we purchased the vehicle within a month of it release, we were not able to get it optioned exactly the way we wanted. Our only regret is that it doesnt have the Mark Levinson system. The standard system does not sound as good as the one in our previous RX300. The Navigation system is great and the Back-up camera is to die for. This should be a required safety feature on all SUVs and Minivans. Overall we are very pleased with the new RX330.

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  Very Happy - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Tom - February 27 - 11:06 pm

  We traded in our LX450 which we loved, but we owned it over 8 years. We wanted something with four wheel drive but more efficient on fuel and parking. Tried the competitors out. We came back to Lexus. They just seem to keep doing things right.

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  wonderful - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By GSussan - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Compared to the Mercedes ML I used to drive, this is a dream!

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  Loving it.... - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By ng - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car a few weeks ago and am completely satisfied with it. It was beyond my expectation! I cant see myself buying a different SUV. No regrets!

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  10 All Around - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By jtphilips - February 13 - 6:40 pm

  Fantastic automobile. Looks great and drives great! Is there any other reason to buy a car? They all get you from point A to point B, but some do it in style! With a Toyota engine under the hood, reliability is surely there as well.