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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  You will love this vehicle.... - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By LindaLou - July 26 - 1:53 pm

  My Lexus RX330 is my first SUV and I love it! The seats are so comfortable and the lumbar support is perfect for me. The heater works immediately, which is great in the winter months. The 4 wheel drive is great in the snow as I just found out.. I would recommend this vehicle to all.

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  Simply the Best SUV - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Summer - July 17 - 7:10 pm

  I own an 04 AWD (now have 24,000 miles on it) and couldnt be happier with it. Ive owned a BMW (M3), Mercedes (C32), Honda Accord EX.... you name it. This is the best all around car. I love the room, the ride, the styling, the quality, the customer service, the many cool features... everything. Before we bought, my husband and I looked at BMW X5, Infiniti FX45, Acura MDX, Pacifica and Im glad I ended up with this one. You cant beat Lexus quality (better than BMW and Mercedes) I still look for better SUVs out there and havent found one. (Porsche Cayenne has good power, but poor quality and plain interior) If I sell this one, its because Im buying a new one (maybe 400h?) :)

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  Almost perfect - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Jay Chen - July 7 - 10:00 am

  This is a extremely nice and well balanced SUV. Its quite, smooth, drives like its on butter, yet never leans or floats around corners. I love the in-dash CD changer and the muscular, angular styling. The leather seats are perfect in every way, theyre supportive, easy to adjust, have memory and heating features. Ive driven it for over four months now and we have taken it on several highway trips. Although its nice and smooth for two people, the interior space limits its use as a family highway cruiser.

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  My Lexus SUV rocks! - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Lina - July 6 - 11:03 pm

  I have owned several European luxury cars and this is my very favorite car ever! If you have any interest in buying a new car...do yourself a favor and test drive this one.

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  The Best SUV on the market - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Raulin/R. Corbera - July 2 - 10:00 am

  First time Lexus buyer, The confort, handling, ride and quality are excellent, second to none. I am truly impressed. Best buy I have made in many years. Customer service is excellent and a truly pleasant buying experience.

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  Lexus RX330 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By L. Witherbee - July 2 - 5:40 am

  This is our 7th Lexus fron a GS 300 to 2 LS 400s 3 RX 300s and a GX470. We feel this is one of the best Lexus ever. They have corrected all the negatives we expewrienced in our previous RX 300s. Great car and well buy another one.

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  Great Auto - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Alina81 - June 30 - 10:26 pm

  happy with my RX

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  Love my Lexus - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By dancingdawg2000 - June 23 - 10:00 am

  I had an RX300 purchased in Novenber 03. In April 03 I was unfortunately involved in an accident that totaled it via a broadside collision. Having enjoyed the vehicle, it was my first Lexus, I immediately started looking at another. The culmination of the subtle changes made to the RX330 really combine into a significant overall improvement. Increased power, more agressive and unique styling inside and out make the RX330 a terribly SEXY vehicle. I did look at the 470 but it is not nearly as sexy as the 330.

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  RX330 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By tk watson - June 22 - 1:40 am

  Has not lived up to expectations (had RX300 for 6 years). Vehicle tends to pull to left (told that was "normal"), exterior door moldings do not remain secure to car (repaired 3x, still a problem), lots of rattles and noises. Drivers seat is not flush to steering wheel. No fun to drive.

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  Few missing things - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Bob Tyler - June 18 - 7:26 pm

  First, this is a really nice car which makes any omissions really stand out. For one: dual acting sun visors (actually two per side-one for the front & side window and an extra one for the front) For eleven years Ive had them on my American cars. Second one: mud flaps. Oh, they are available for $160+ installation. Without them the car tends to get splattered easily. Third: complexity of controls.Yes, they do allow flexibility and optional ways to operate but a 600+ page instruction book! Too much! Now, Ive got to repeat what a wonderfully satisfying vehicle this is. No buyers remorse on this one!