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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  Classy Ride - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By sharr - March 26 - 2:00 am

  It was hard to trade in my 2000 RX300. But the weird steering system of that model made me finally decide to do it. I love my new RX330. Yes, the sound system isnt as great as the RX300, but its not bad either. I do think the plastic silver surround gives it a "boombox" look and would have prefer something a bit different. Overall, I love my new RX330. It is luxurious. My clients love it when I pick them up. I love the dark grey color with the black leather interior that I purchased. The navigation system is a true lifesaver for me dealing with Metro DC traffic and locations. I really use my car and put a lot of miles a year on it.

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  Five Months Waiting - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Walter Goldcord - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Since delivery date, 9/9/03 theres been an audible buzz and noticable vibration at approximately 2000 rpm. The dealer acknowledged the problem and reported that the factory has engineers working on it as its nota problem isolated only to my RX. I was called in December to bring the car in for a factory "fix", which didnt solve the problem. The service tech rode with me and had a scope (?) plugged in under the dash which produces a report on engine functions. I was told the engineers would continue to try to solve it and as soon as they did I hear from them (the Dealer).

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  First SUV - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Joyce - March 22 - 5:43 am

  I like the feel of driving it... it is a comfortable ride that feels more like a car than a truck.. as some SUVs do. Decent amount of loading space for most items.

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  RX330 Awesome - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Shelby - March 20 - 5:36 pm

  This vehicle is the most fun of the 4 Lexus I have owned. Its exterior design is just beautiful, interior luxurious. Smooth, comfortable, QUIET ride. The shortened the turning radius so it is even easier to turn around than my RX300 was. The engine is very responsive and the gas mileage is GREAT. I get about 19 -20 mpg driving around town and 26 on the highway. Best of all, I trust this vehicle--since it is a Lexus, it will not break down. Suberbly constructed with a well-thought out design. Thank you Lexus engineers.

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  Jans RX330 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Jans RX330 - March 16 - 1:16 am

  This vehicle is smooth and quiet. Seats are very comfy. I took long trip, averaged 26 miles per gallon at 75 mph. I have had no problems with car at 9000 miles. Very satisfied with vehicle.

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  Great car... Love it! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By travelingg - March 11 - 6:36 am

  I had an RX 300 for 4 years and did not think it could get any better. MY RX 330 is tremendous. I will never have a car without AWD and a GPS system. Cant recommend Lexus enough for quality, comfort, reliability and service. The Lexus buying experience is unique as they truly value your business.

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  Love my rx330! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By kcarroll831 - March 8 - 8:07 am

  Im 17 and just bought my second car, and I love it. The only complaint is the power rear door.. Maybe I just dont understand it but the key fob button and the button the dash only work sometimes. Other times Itll try to open then just close. Its fun to drive, has some get up and go when you want it. Gas mileage is great, I average 23-24 in the city, 22 maybe in heavy stop and go. I hate when something raddles or shakes and this car is very solid. Even with the bass up and windows down no annoying noises! Very clean, classy, but fun car. Also I havent driven many cars but the few I have drove awful in the rain. This Lexus takes puddles better than my truck on 35s...

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  love my new ride - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By tresavaliso - March 2 - 10:00 am

  i came to this car from a bmw, and was worried about leaving the performance vehicle i had gotten used to, but this car makes up for it in luxury and comfort. I am totally happy with it. Seats go up and down easily in rear. roomy, comfortable, an no complaints from passengers.

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  Lexus Convert - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By RX Convert - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. I traded my Honda Accord for the RX330 and I have zero regrets. I drove every SUV in the class (MDX, XC90, ML, BMW). Hands down, the RX is the best buy for the money. The drive is superb although the transmission can be a bit sluggish at times. The new body design is young and hip. And, the luxurious interior makes me feel like a queen (although I wish there was an aluminum trim package instead of the standard wood trim and wood/leather steering wheel on Premium packages). This is my first Lexus and probably wont be my last.

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  First SUV, Great Car - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By NS - February 12 - 11:56 am

  I was a minivan "mom" and wanted to move away from that line. This is my first SUV and I LOVE it. It is very quiet and handles like a dream. Provides a lot of room inside also.