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:
Showing 281 through 290 of 723.00-
Great - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Hi Akagi - October 2 - 10:00 amA very reliable and trouble free vehicle a little under powered but not bad.I had the RX300 and it was so much better then the M car the only time I had it in the shop was for regular service Im sure this one will be just as good.
-
Not What I Expected - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By NewBuyer - October 2 - 10:00 amFor the price I would be better off with a the Toyota version.
-
from 300 to 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By JHackmanGemMan - October 2 - 10:00 amEverything I wished for on my 300 was here in the 330. Everything!!!!No car on the road even comes close...
-
Mals RX - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Mal S - October 2 - 10:00 amI have only had the car two months, have had no problems. It rides as smoothly and quietly as the Cadillac that I traded when I bought it. The car with its 18" wheels is a head turner. Controls are easy to use and of high quality. Gas mileage is 18-21 mpg with AWD. The headlights turn night into day.
-
Lexus 330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Irene Meyer - October 2 - 10:00 amThis is the nicest SUV I have driven in, the most comfortable, beautiful interior, smoothest ride. Its not too big, easy to park. I am getting good gas mileage.
-
excellent - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Paaras - October 2 - 10:00 ambest car ever to drive
-
fast & LOUD! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By joseph - October 2 - 10:00 amIts hot its fast and fun to drive the new 2004 Lexus RX 330 is like i said HOT. I get alot of complaments at work so everyone loves it and its very comfortable to drive, espiacily at night. I drive around alot at night and when ever I stop at a light I turn the wheel and the light moves with it (very cool). I recomend you buy this SUV because youll be partyingin it. Thank you very much I enjoy it i am sure you will to.
-
Even better than the RX300 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Mike Muller - October 2 - 10:00 amIve only had my RX-330 for two months. My previous auto was the RX- 300 (2000 model) which I had leased for three years. The RX-300 was a magnificent car and I must admit, Lexus found ways to improve it in the 330 that I would never have thought about. Its the best looking car on the road today.
-
My personal review of the RX 330 Lexus. - 2005 Lexus RX 330
By Nona Helms - September 26 - 9:16 pmThis car has been a joy to own. It is easily loaded with passengers, and cargo. It is quiet riding, and well designed.The car has ample power for city, and highway use. The visability is good, and the controls are handy.
-
A good Upgrade - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By cobra1234 - September 26 - 10:00 amThis is a really nice car. They have made it alot better than the previous models. It looks and handels alot better.
