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 Vehicle - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Dean - March 19 - 3:33 pm

  This vehicle continues to feel the same as the day we took it off the dealer lot. Fit and finish is unapproachable. Build quality is very high and the vehicle is well thought- out from inception to execution.

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  Id buy it again, definitely. - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Jack Straw - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Fast and stylish - much better than the other five brands I looked at. This car (not really a truck) is underpriced!

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  Outstanding Automobile - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Very happy buyer - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Contains outstanding overall features - combination of luxurious features with excellent space and high seating position. Meets almost any requirements.

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  You were better before - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MinnesotaGal - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Lexus should have left well enough alone. I have owned a 99 and a 01 RX300, and they were both much better than the 04 RX330. The transmission is sluggish, dismal power, gas mileage at about 18mi/gal even though 80% of my driving is highway. It rides like a big slug -- even though the engine is bigger, the increased body size and weight consumes the extra power. Plus, the engine is loud. Im disappointed!

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  Great car for the money! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By CGino - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Third Lexus I have owned and they just keep getting better. Long list of standard features makes this car an awesome value. Dealership was great to work with and nothing can match the level of service you receive from Lexus.

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  rx330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By UIS00SN - February 18 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about this car but the gas mileage. Maybe its because the car has only 1200 miles. Ive had rx300 before and rx330 even more comfortable, fast and fun to drive. Lexus fixed the turning circle and now this major problem in rx300 is gone. Highly recommend!

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  Very Nice, would buy another one - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By sabonew - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Really enjoy driving. There are so many features, the car is quiet. Excellent gas milage. Roomy interior.

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  3 years experience - disappointing - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By kc - February 16 - 6:10 pm

  Ladies SUV; my wife was attracted to it by appearance; acceleration OK but tires (all 4 of them) wore out sooner than youd expect. Trims fell off even though parked in garage most of the time. Transmission jerks even when air conditioner is off. Dealer couldnt do anything and explained as normal - give me a break. Several recalls already.

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  Solid X5 killer - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By moliver - February 7 - 10:00 am

  After 7 test drives and as many mind- changes I finally plunked down my $ and purchased a X330 in Black Onyx What a sexy beast and a cruiser like Ive never seen! I drove the Toureg. FX35, Audi ARoad, Ford Xplr EB and NOTHING could touch this vehicle It exudes class and is the smoothest, quietest and most lux of any of the others-maybe a half a sec slower but WHO cares -if you want to race get a Porche!!!!

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  My Lexus - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Maureen Farrelly - February 7 - 10:00 am

  The Lexus is my first SUV, I have owned luxury and sports cars. I absolutely love my car & am thrilled I got it. It is sleek, the ride is so smooth...I feel like I am in a luxury car, not a typical SUV. Its easy & comfortable to ride around in & plenty of space for packages.