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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Dont even miss my BMW - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By dms666 - September 26 - 10:00 amI always want to drive this car. I hate it when my wife wants to get behind the wheel! :) Totally thrilled with this vehicle. Exceeds all of my expectations. Gorgeous inside and out. Handles like a dream. I dont even think about 2- seater BMW I traded in for it.
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the best suv ever - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By sexyrph - September 26 - 10:00 amas an owner of a 2004 lexus rx330 i love it. by far the best vehicle i have ever driven. it is perfect in every way.
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No regrets - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By AyeSyt - September 26 - 10:00 amThis is a very nice SUV. It is almost too cushy, but for the type of driving I do, why not be comfortable? I was fortunate that the dealer had one on the showroom floor in the color I wanted, but it had the performance package, a $5000 option. That package is what makes the car. I love all the options that are included, and I doubt that I would have chosen them individually. This car is a wonder of technology. If you like gadgets, this is the car for you. This is the first time Ive ever had to read the owners manual.
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Your crazy if you dont like it. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Wa - September 23 - 6:50 amWe have had this car for 1 year and it has been perfect. It has excelent performance. It is in the $35,000- $45,000 price range. we have not crashed yet, but because of all the airbags(such as SIDE CURTAIN airbags) this is a extremely safe car.
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sweeet - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By jonblazzin - September 15 - 10:00 amI never considered buying the rx330 let alone a lexus. But the dealership was right by the acura where i went to purchase the mdx. After i test drove the lex, all the features and the smooth ride convinced me to purchase this over the mdx. so far so good.
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practical with luxury - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By latte4me - September 8 - 10:00 amLooking for a reliable car thats practical and comfortable? This is it. Add a top-notch dealer experience and youll never want to buy another car.
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good car, just not a drivers car... - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By zimco - September 8 - 10:00 amI beleive that SUVs are overrated in general, but despite that, the RX330 is a comfortable, well built vehicle with many features and relatively decent pricing for the class. Fuel economy, though only acceptable, is good for the class. However, it is not a thrill machine for the driver. Overall, quality and luxury are the selling points in this car
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I love this car - 2006 Lexus RX 330
By Mrs. J in SC - August 29 - 1:26 pmI had recently purchased the RX330 and I am in love with this vehicle. This SUV has everything that I want. My husband has driven my car and he is really impressed as well. This is my first Lexus and I know this will not be my last.
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Reliable - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Eclipse - August 25 - 10:00 amI was driving down i-95 and suddenly the car shook, slightly but you could tell that something was different and my friend asked me what had happened, I replied, we just had a blow out. My friend being the owner of a ford expedition said, that was the best blowout i have ever been in. (meaning the safest) When she got home she decided to turn in her ford for a lexus!!
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LOVE the RX........ - 2005 Lexus RX 330
By nahbm - August 17 - 2:43 pmThe Rx 300 is an excellent SUV. It drives very well on the highway and in town. It still maintains its style, the older it gets.
