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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  Could be Better - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Dan from NY - October 18 - 3:06 am

  This is a reliable, quiet vehicle that get fairly good mpg for an suv, but it is not a drivers car. Driver ergonomics and handling characteristics are disappointing. The drivers seat is not deep enough and does not have good thigh support; the pedals could be more vertical - I get tired after extended driving. The steering is too light and is easily influenced by every undulation on the road. The transmission refuses to downshift, especially when youre at 2200-2400 rpm and need to pass or merge. The engine revs up, but the tranny refuses to kick in - Ive had to manually downshift to 3rd gear many times - wost tranny Ive had. The verdict: I think Lexus designed this for my wife.

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  Second Time Around - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Genius Somewhat - October 14 - 10:00 am

  We own two SUVs by Lexus, a 1999 RX300 and an RX330. We have been very happy with both of them. The only problem we have had to contend with is the steering wheel locking and the key not turning. This has caused panic, dilemna, and anxiety. Luckily, we have been able to get it started finally but it has taken help at times.

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  Lexus RX 330 is a quality Luxury SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By NSMan - October 14 - 10:00 am

  My goal when I arrived financial was to buy a Lexus as payment for all my hard work. This year was that year, I set out to buy a Lexus and fell in love with the new RX 300. So far it has proven to be the quality I expected from a Lexus. I feel secure knowing that I have purchased on of the finest made automobiles in the world.

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  GS300 Replacement - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Fred Backhaus - September 28 - 4:23 am

  Coming from a 98 GS300 (great car) to my first SUV may not be a fair comparison. The steering is not as precise. My 01 Dodge Caravan accelerates quieter. But I guess as far as SUVs go it is at the top of the heap. The quality is definitely there.

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  Still not sure - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By pam - September 27 - 12:43 am

  I purchased this vehicle 5 mos ago. I am enjoying it however I am concerned that the engine noise is louder than I am used to. I do not like the arm rest. Otherwise the ride is very comfortable. Servicing is more expensive than expected. Paint job dulls quickly. (black) Need to have it detailed and waxed too often. I came from a Cadillac and it had more electronic information capabilities.

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  Lexus 330 (2004) - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Windy - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful ride. Runs perfectly, like riding in an airplane. We have EVERY extra possible. Ours listed for $55,000.

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  Great value and pure luxury - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By qtdriver - September 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven over 6,000 miles on my RX330 and its been such a great pleasure. The handling could be better compared to small sedans but other than that this SUV has a luxurious interior and is such a fun AND comfortable ride. Ive had no problems with this car and I get complimented on it all the time.

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  RX330 is Great - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By RenoSS - August 27 - 10:00 am

  I previously owned a 2002 Lexus ES300. My son purchased a 2004 RX-330 and I drove it a few times. We really liked the easy entry and exit from the vehicle. All the extra creature comforts that the ES-300 didnt have. We really like the ride and ease of putting things in the cargo space with the power door. The sound system is great and the power steering wheel is also a very nice feature. Of course you cant beat the service at the Lexus dealership.

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  New RX a hot hit! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By hckydude814 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  This car is so great. Lexus took all the problems with the original RX (a tiny number) and fixed them. They did a great job!

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  Love My RX330!!! Best car I ever had!!! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By LadyK - August 16 - 9:56 am

  I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS CAR!!! Its fun to drive because it rides like a dream. As a first time Lexus buyer, the comfort, the handling, the ride and the quality are excellent!!! I am truly impressed. I like the attention it gets when driving around town. The interior is beautiful and the features are great. I love driving on the highway at night now due to the tinted back window and the glare blocking side view mirrors- this feature alone is PRICELESS!!! My concerns are: The transmission stalls when switching gears. Inside interior including tan rugs, get dirty easily. Using the seat warmers while wearing dark clothes, stains the leather.