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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  Great car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By JRBerry719 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Have had 3 Jeeps, one test drive in my new 3x330 and I was sold. What a fun car to drive, it is beautiful and very functional for Pacific NW driving. Dealership was fair, honest, and have kept every promise. Great car!

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  Love my 04 RX - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By John THW - October 27 - 12:30 am

  Terrific vehicle! Wished I had the voice recognition and BlueTooth which are now standard for the 05, but I got a great price for my 04 so I cant complain. The ergonomics can be better- specifically the radio display and certain controls. NAV is very good, but wish I could combine the best features from Acura and Lexus! Sound system is good (standard), but not as good as our other car (Acura TSX). Power is more than adequate, but wish it got better gas mileage-dont even think that youll get close to 26 hwy, but I love the fact that premium gas is not necessary.

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  I love this vehicle! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Michelle - October 26 - 11:03 am

  We started out with a 2004 base model RX 330 last year and upgraded this year to a 2005 with AWD, Nav. Sys, DVD player, Mark Levinson stereo, etc... We loved the first one and love this one even more. It handles well, feels safe (IS safe too for that matter), is very comfortable (with a lot of interior space) and has a lot of "bells and whistles" that equal a good value when you compare costs for the same bells and whistles on a BMW or Mercedes! I also LOVE the look of the RX 330 - very sophisticated and sporty. The service from Lexus has been impeccable. I cannot rave enough about this vehicle, and about Lexus in general! Im a fan for life!

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  Excellent Car - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Jason Chen - October 24 - 6:33 am

  Love my RX 330 but feel little bit powerless

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  better than before - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Robert Sofer - October 23 - 9:06 pm

  previously owned an RX 300. this is even better. better handling and comfort. fuel economy is very good for car this size.

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  Great car - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Edward - October 20 - 12:00 am

  I have loved this car from the start, it drives great and is a really reliable car. It has never been in the repair shop. The only problem is the hesitation i guess only in AWD models; somethings is weird with the transmission.

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  RX330 verdict - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By miclam - October 17 - 10:00 am

  It looks as good as it handles the road, and being in the inside definition gives the most satisfaction of all cross-over. Almost all the novel innovations possible for 2003 and they actually work: pretty HID headlights with AFS and autoleveling, air suspension, airbag network, power rear door, advanced in-dash CD changer with ASL, laser cruise control, backup camera, EL lit console, retained accessory power, auto up/down on all four windows, dual zone climate, driver by wire, iridium spark plugs, pretty 18" wheels, even a cup holder with blue LED.

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  Dont bother - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By JamesB - October 12 - 10:00 am

  Lively vehicle with somewhat noisy motor. Comfort slightly snug for a large fellow. The acceleration doesnt seem too good. Good features for upper version cuv. Not very reliable, already have trouble with throttle.

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  Bad Model - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By megan - October 2 - 10:40 am

  Bought the 2004 Lexus because I drove the RX 300 and loved it. Yet this car has disappointed. The transmission lags horribly! Going from a stop, you press on the gas with no response and then a huge lurch forward. We took it into the dealer and explained the problem and they insisted nothing was wrong and it was "how they all run". Only to talk to them 4 years later and they admit that this car was underpowered. However, the styling, space, and comfort was exceptional.

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  Great, tranny leaves much too be desired - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Happy - September 29 - 11:46 pm

  The car is wonderful in every aspect, however, we had to trade-in our 04 rx330 b/c of MANY problems. Transmission seems to be the MAIN weakness because of the "un-sure" gear position. The car doesnt seem to know what gear to be in to provide maximum response.