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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  A Great SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By gatorone - October 8 - 7:00 pm

  Weve owned this one since new. With 70,000 miles reliability has been excellent. We keep the car away from the dealers to insure only the maintenance requirements specified in the owners manual are performed. After the initial two free services by the Lexus dealer, the car has never needed to go back. I would say the interior quality of the prior Lexus RX300 is a little better. Performance is best using premium fuel with little to no acceleration hesitation as you get with regular fuel. The original stock tires (Goodyear) were poor for this level of car. Ride and driving are fine. Pressure gradiant when one window open that you feel with the ears. We managed 28 mpg on highway.

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  lexus rx330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By fredmaione - October 1 - 10:00 am

  better ride than my last benz, solid driving performance, good feeling about being in it

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  Love it! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Susan - September 30 - 2:46 am

  My husband wanted a Grand Cherokee Limited but I won out. He absolutely loves this car...he hasnt stopped detailing it on the weekends. Its beautiful to look at, fun to drive, rides like youre floating on air. Nothing better this year in mid size SUVs and service is fantastic!

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  Not what I expected - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By big spender - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Even though I bought this vehicle in May. I wish I had test drove it a little bit more. The engine noise is awful. Im getting average performance. I should have look at some other vehicle.

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  Gotta love it! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By kala - August 30 - 2:00 am

  After doing lots of research on 2004 car/suv models it was decided, the best vehicle for the safety,value and comfort,the 2004 rx330 was clearly a wonderfull find for us. The rx330 is all of the above said, and performs well in the ice and snow!! We are very happy with our rx330.

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  Wonderful - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By ramstein - July 30 - 10:00 am

  This is a wonderful car to drive and to ride in. It has the beauty of both worlds. A car and an suv. I love it and this car has made a Lexus owner out of me for life.

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  Just upgraded my RX300 to RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By vicki - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The RX330 seems to be "tighter" in every detail from the seats to handeling (bigger tires). Speaking of tires, my new RX330 came w/ a great set as compared to my RX300. I love the new features such as the side mirror tilt when you put in reverse, the automatic backdoor open/close w/ touch of a button, the CD holder in the dash vs the glove box & the duel temp. controls.

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  Very good - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By PONDsuv - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Have driven 7000 miles in 5 weeks. Performance very good. Milage 24-25 on Interstate, 17-18 local. Great driver seat, should have all the same options on the passenger seat - uncomfortable to back on the right side. Previous had Mercedes E320 - better seats and performance in the MB, but enjoy the RX as much or more. Standard RX audio system a bit cheap - could do much better. Service outstanding! Back seat with adjustable seats a bonus. Overall, a very good auto. Will revisit review in 12 months.

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  High Tech Luxury - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By JohnConnor - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Fantastic crossover SUV or LUV as they like to refer to it. Total comfort and luxury. Major improvement over the first generation RX300, in both style and performance. Love it!!

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  Pleasing to look at and to drive - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Tom Stangl - July 28 - 10:40 am

  A nice combination. Beautiful exterior and interior looks, quality second to none and a quiet, smooth ride. The navigation system is very easy to use and more practical/helpful than I imagined. Mark Levinson sound system is crisp, clear and powerful! The lexus CPO program was the final touch on a great buying experience.