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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  Absolutely heaven - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Shel - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I waited 2 months for my 330RX - it was worth it! I got it fully loaded and look forward to driving it everyday. This is our familys first Lexus - weve only owned Mercedez for the past 22 years. The luxury ride,tighter turning radius, better gas mileage, and camera sold me! I love my vehicle!!! Initially, I was reluctant to change from a German driving car, but the luxurious drive convinced me to switch. Try the auto rainsensor option...its effortless to drive w/ all my extras. Excellent DVD quality.

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  Best SUV ever. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Janie - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I have had 5 SUVs. The ride in this car is phenomenal. I test drove all of them and this was by far the best!

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  best purchase ever made! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By shemaga - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Forget the M class mercedes! Forget the BMW X5! I wasnt sure about this car until I drove it. he others felt like I was driving a truck. The X5 made me feel like I was in an 18 wheeler. The interior design beats both the Mclass and the X5 out of the water. Very sleek, chic and the leather is great. The navigation system is amazing and very easy. I had to wait 10 weeks to get this car and it was well worth it. It will be hard to ever change to another SUV!

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  Love My Car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By prince eric - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I upgrated from the RX300 to the RX 330 and could not be happier. I was going to try another maker, but I could not find a better driving SUV

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  Love my birthday chine - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Susanne - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Sporty, easy to get into...and take the Thanksgiving trip to New Albany, Ohio. Sturdy feel. Went to the dealership with the intention of buying a sedan when the 330 caught my eye.., Took sedan out for a drive, as that was my intention...but went back and said...let me try this cutie out...called my husband on his cell phone and told him to join me for a test drive...we met up at the dealership and my husband wanted to try out a sedan first...then came back and once he tried out the RX, his mind was made up...all he wanted then was a silver RX to match his 100th anniversary HOG...

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  Great Car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Liz B - August 14 - 10:00 am

  this is def. one of the greatest cars i have drivin. im so glad i got one!!

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  Great Car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By NY RN - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Second Lexus so far, went from the IS 300 to RX 330. Great car, love the interior makes me feel like I am at home. Disappointed in the stereo system. Also when the sun roof is open I hear a flicking in my ear with the pressure of the windows. Also have some trouble when I start the car, I have to restart it at times. Do not like that the Transmission can be funky at times but the IS was the same. But I do enjoy getting into it every morning. Would never buy another vehicle other than Lexus. Family memebers have the BMW X5, mercedes ML, land rover Discovery and Acura...all have a BOXEY RIDE. Looks like a Honda inside. Lexus=Luxury

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  Excellent - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Jusjan - August 14 - 10:00 am

  ITs a suv thats a pleasure to drive. We have owned 2 RX 300s before this one, and I can say the new RX330 is no disappointment

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  Major Disappointment - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By DickV - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I agree with Mountain Drive(9/04/03) In addition, since the passenger seat lacks 8-way adj. and the lumbar support cant be moved, it can be a major discomfort on long trips. Compared to the Mercedes E-320 wagon we traded,the RX330 lacks power and acceleration, has significantly more road noise, requires half again more room for turning, and has been much less reliable. Two full repair days in 6 months vs. one day in 5 years with the E-320. Undercarraige too low for moutain road clearance. Only thing gained on trade was AWD, everything else was downgrade.

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  Luxurious and Reliable - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Barbara G. - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I love Lexus. Its a treat driving this car. I think its the best SUV on the road.