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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Wonderful - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Dave Bogues - September 24 - 2:00 amWhat a joy to purchase a vehicle that brings back the joy and pride of a new vehicle. My wife hasnt slept in two nights from her joy.
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Improvement from the RX 300 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Chuck R - September 24 - 2:00 amI had the prior model, the RX 300. I liked the prior model so well that I contemplated buying another one just prior to the introduction of the RX 330. I am glad that I did not. The 330 is a big improvement: more power, better gas mileage, smoother ride, smaller turning radius, more features such as the power rear door opener.
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Fantastic SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Lisa245 - September 13 - 10:00 amCant say enough good things about this car. Its fantastic!!!!!!!! Lots of luxury inside and out. Thanks Lexus!!!!
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RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By bohunk - September 13 - 10:00 amThis is my first LUV I mean SUV Id never found one worthy until now.The 330 rides like a car and is loaded with all the latest safety goodies.I have a 2001 ES300 and this is just so much more auto with many more features.
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Great Ride - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By eckfay - August 30 - 10:00 amThis is an excellent vehicle...more on- road than off-road...very comfortable...handles well...little pricey, but worth it...excellent interior features...all in all..fabulous
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Company Jet - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Lil4x - August 30 - 10:00 amAmazing silence, outstanding handling and reasonable fuel economy for an SUV, plus incredible tactile luxury make the 330 the perfect long-distance tourer. We hated to turn our RX 300 in this spring, but the RX 330 is as big a step up in luxury from the 300 as the 300 was from my previous loaded Suburbans. A smooth, effortless inhaler of interstates, we call it the company jet. Itll do until the Gulfstream arrives.
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AWESOME SUV,LOVE IT - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By LEX CHIC - August 18 - 2:00 amITS OVERALL A GREAT SUV,WILL RECOMMEND TO ANYONE,JUST WISH THE TRANSMISSION WAS A LITTLE SMOOTHER.THE INSIDE IS VERY UP TO DATE AND THE LEATHER IS SO SMOOTH,THE OUTSIDE IS AWESOME THE CLEAR BACK LIGHTS,THE NEW HEADLIGHTS AND THE 18"WHEELS DO THE JOB..GOOD JOB LEXUS
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Ultimate Comfort - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Vlady - August 12 - 2:00 amMy second RX. Lexus managed to improve something which was already near perfection.This car is so comfortable and easy to drive that sometimes seems boring.You could never go wrong with this car.
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Very Happy with my RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By Christina A - August 12 - 2:00 amI just purchased my RX330 and I think it is Amazing. Style, Performance, Reliability, dependability, Very Smooth ride. I am so glad I choose to be a part of the LEXUS family! Excellent Choice. I am very satisfied!
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Nice Ride - 2004 Lexus RX 330
By GJ - July 19 - 7:33 pmThis car takes the stress out of driving. The ride is quiet and smooth. The car is so quiet that you can appreciate the high quality sound system. You are isolated from all the madness around you in the comfort of leather. The navigation system took me from my garage to a resort in Lake Tahoe CA without a miss (Unlike a back seat driver).
