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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  My RX - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Dotette - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Wow! I had the RX300 and loved it but the 330 is incredible. The improvements go on and on. More powerful, better handling, a better cruiser, more comfortable on long trips, improved navigation; theres a rear camera, seats with good support for that bad back, more room, more storage, more features and more attractive.

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  Lexus330 Outstanding - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By manxfold - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding build quality, luxury interior, leather/maple. Drove many SUVs and none compared to this model.

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  happy with choice - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By tradedaBenz - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Recently traded old big Benz for RX330. More luxurious than the Benz, much better ride than a Grand Cherokee. I almost bought a small Benz -- what a mistake that would have been! Love the car/truck.

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  Lexus - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Per - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Such an amazing SUV!

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  Horrible blind spot - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By tercot - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The 2004 models side-rear windows are narrow causing a terrible blind spot when backing out of a parking lot. Also, the rear door can only be opened with the remote key, meaning that if you are carrying things, you have to put them down and dig in your pockets or purse to find the key. Very inconvenient. This is not a female or Mom friendly car.

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  Lexus is Quality - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Grover6 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this SUV mainly for travel comfort and storage capacity. Definitely very comfortable for traveling. For the first time a 12-hour drive was enjoyable. Both drivers and front passenger seats can be positioned so anyone can find the right adjustment for comfort. The rear seating can be folded down easily for extra space. Only wish we had included the navigation and heated front seat options.

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  love my 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By peg - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Its the best car Ive ever had in the snow & ice. I can not tell the difference in the road surface at all. Nice sound proofing. THe only problem is the wide rear side panels that block your vision when backing up.

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  serious service - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By 2nd time owner - July 21 - 2:00 am

  After test driving five other types of luvs I came back to the Lexas for drive, style and professionalism of the dealership. The Lexas service cant be beat.

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  LEXUS RX 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By GARYBUZZY - July 21 - 2:00 am

  GREAT SUV, NO PROBLEMS GREAT LOOKS AND FEATURES A MUST BUY VERY COMFORTABLE AND VERY GOOD TO DRIVE

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  I love my car !! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By SVH1973 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  From the moment I looked at this gorgeous interior I knew I had to have a Lexus RX330. Already unhappy with my new BMW 5 series, the RX330 was everything the BMW wasnt. Its roomy, plush, beautifully designed with a Navigation system and in dash CD changer that are user friendly. The detail is striking with maple woodgrain steering wheel and console offset by the brushed silver trim. Easy and very fun to drive, excellent handling, and very comfortable for long trips. My previous 4 cars had been Cadillacs and this has all the luxury and lots more fun.