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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  Cant go wrong - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Lexus fan - May 14 - 10:00 am

  the only bad thing about the old version was the poor turning radius. That is fixed with the new body style. The interior design is GREAT! The exterioe updates are done well also. Good job Lexus.

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  Love My Lexus! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By kent0150 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Before I get to my review of my 2005 RX330 I want to mention that I have never been treated so well as I was at DCH Lexus of Oxnard, the dealership that I bought my Lexus at. From the first time I called them, to the time that I bought, and since then, they have treated me like a VIP. As to my 2005 Lexus RX330, this vehicle is awsome! It rides like a luxury sedan, handles great, has very comfortable seats, and is just a lot of fun to drive! The navigation system works great, it even tells you what lane to get into if youre in the wrong lane. I love the fact that I can give it voice commands while Im driving. This is my first Lexus, and from my experience so far, it wont be by last.

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  Wonderful SUV for a family - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Ashgun - April 24 - 10:00 am

  While waiting for XC90 to arrive, we test drove an RX330 and immediately fell in love with the design and ride quality. One of our best buys ever. Like a piece of jewellary it pampers you. On top of all the luxury, it is a very practical vehicle. Attracts lots of oohs and aahs from our childrens classmates at the school.

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  just awesome - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By drjellyfinger - April 24 - 10:00 am

  Great car, great ride. You get what you pay for. Nav system is great worth the extra wait. Only bad thing, NO Levinson sound system yet. Anyone who says it is good does not have 2004 rx 330, they just arent building the car with the levinson radio yet. too bad!

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  Our First Lexus - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By B.LEAMON - April 15 - 6:26 am

  Weve driven Toyota products for the past 8 years and decided to upgrade to the Lexus this year. The "RX 330" fit all our needs and we are delighted with it so far. I cant see us driving anything else in the future, this vehicle is perfect for us. It is "eerily" quiet and smooth and handles deceptively well. The sound system is great and the” creature comforts" are outstanding.

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  phsyco transmission - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By daisycher - April 5 - 11:04 am

  This is the weirdest transmission Ive ever encountered..it jerks and or jumps when shifting into second gear..upshift. when coming down steep hills..very unpredictable...but I love everything else about the car...worried about trans..

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  Luxury ride with SUV room - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By duffer.jim - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Owned Q45, Lincolns, a Caddy and five Grand Cherokees. 04 RX330 has ride of Q with room of the Cherokee. Bought CPO with 30K miles for less than new Jeep. Get benefit of another 70K of warranty and other Lexus percs, plus a LOT smoother ride. Only complaint - power to outlets shut down with engine. Cant charge my cell phone while in a meeting!

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  Great Car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Michael Smyth - March 21 - 10:00 am

  This car is great. The feAtures are outstanding. the power rear door and the XM Radio are O My GOd theyre just awesome

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  Second Lexus RX - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By picventure - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Excellent changes from the RX300 which I also loved

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  My Lexus RX 300 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Christina Moritz - March 21 - 10:00 am

  This is the second Lexus we purchase3 after trading in the Mercedes which was in the shop more than two times in one Year. We love everything about the Lexus and will purchase another in 2 years. We hope to get the new model of the 430 sedan.