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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  A 40K+ Car Shouldnt Rattle - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Stan - February 11 - 9:23 am

  I started out loving this car. Excellent highway passing capability, spectacular emergency handling (saved my life on one occasion) and superior comfort. BUT little things mean a lot. After about 8000 miles a rattle developed under the dash. Soon it sounded as if the entire dash was shifting after a moderate bump. Still not resolved to my satisfaction. Ive since learned that this is a problem endemic to early production units. Lexus should do better.

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  My Third RX & Still Loving It! - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By Lexi Luvr - January 31 - 6:30 am

  This is my third Lexus SUV and I am a very happy customer! The drive is good, the looks are good and the price is good! You cant beat the price for what you are getting. I bought 2 RXs in a row. Then decided to try another Make of SUV and what a mistake that was. So I traded it in a year later for the RX 330 and Im happy again. My passengers love it also. I have only had my SUV in for oil changes & tire rotations. There is never a problem. This SUV you can count on! The stereo system is great, the seats are comfortable and the ride is smooth. I love new cars, so I do a lot of research before making a purchase and I keep coming back to the Lexus. In my book, its top rated!

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  One of the best cars ive ever owned. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Len - January 23 - 9:00 pm

  This is a great SUV it has well thought out features, quiet, great powertrain and roomy inside. I wish it had XM or Sirius radio but i have to live with AM? FM CD.

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  2nd time around - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Pete in Rome - January 23 - 8:53 am

  This is my second RX. First was the 300 and I have loved both. Top quality of build, no problems at all, and just the best overall quality around. I love the treatment at the dealer, and love that I just never have to go back! I am tempted to buy my third one in a row. That is the best compliment I can think of.

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  Love the Car, Hate the Stereo - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MLBDenver - January 16 - 11:03 pm

  My RX is an incredibly comfortable, safe ride that turns heads. From hauling bikes and dogs to making the daily commute, my Lexus delivers.

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  More problems since 8/13/07 review - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By retired - January 10 - 5:13 am

  Toyota dealer advised @ 30k service that vehicle needs to go to Lexus (100 miles one way) for oil leak "back 1 cam seal leaking." If it were off warranty itd be about $500. This combined with problems stated 8/13/07 will force us to switch makes next trade - have NO confidence in running the vehicle past warranty. This is still a young vehicle for the problems weve had.

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  Forget it take the lost - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Lawrence Liew - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Paid $46,000. Dealership should makes enough profit to cover all services cost. Five times within 9 months return for the same porblem. I guess this is why you drive or own a luxury car. Becasue you dont need to go to work got too much extra time to kill. I am very disappointed with this new world class lexus RX330. It does cost too much for a bag of LEMONS. Dealer no help or not even try to help at all. What a service means?

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  Lighting Problem of Lexus RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Perkins - December 28 - 10:00 am

  Due to exterior lighting problems, I cannot drive my new Lexus at night. The dealer seems unable or unwilling to fix the problem. I am told that I am not the only one with this problem. As of this date, I will sale my Lexus and purchase something without this problem.

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  Better than before - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By mjklaw - December 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my third RX. The new 330 version is longer, wider, more powerful and luxurious....with so many new toys!!! They finally managed to elevate the interior to rival the other models in the line. (I also own an LS430). The turning radius is vastly improved.

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  RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By John S - November 25 - 2:00 am

  We bought one of the first RX330s back in mid 03, and that was after owning 2 RX300s beginning in 99. It is hard to envision a better medium sized SUV. It is stylish, comfortable, and Lexus Quality is hard to beat.