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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  my car - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By aisha - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This is our second Lexus, and I have to say, that I really enjoy this car. After driving an SUV, a car is just not as enjoyable. I really love the way the car handles, and drives. The pickup is pretty good, and you can take off when necessary. The sleek body style is really attractive, and makes me smile everytime I see it!!

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  This is a great SUV - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By 84mb - October 26 - 4:23 pm

  I bought this car after owning and loving my Subaru Legacy for 10 years. I was looking for something with more luxury appointments and better dealer service. The Lexus is a marvel of technology with more toys than anyone could ever hope to use. The navigation system is great. For my personal taste though the cahas more power than it needs and this adversely impacts on the gas mileage which is about 18 on the road. Rear visibility is bad but the large side view mirrors help quite a bit. The high center of gravity makes the car feels tippier than the Subaru but not nearly as bad as an Isuzu Trooper that I used to drive. The quiet and quality of this automobile is outstanding.

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  Unpredictable Lexus - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By SUDDENLEXUS - October 25 - 11:23 pm

  I love my Lexus RX 300. I upgraded from a Honda Prelude. It has a lot of features to keep me interested. It is fun to drive and my daughter is having fun throwing everything on the floor.

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  BEST Buy!! 2006 RX330 AWD - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By Lis Lex - October 10 - 5:13 pm

  This is my first Lexus, but not my first SUV. There is no comparison. I fell in love with my best friends 03 Lexus RX 300. I did my research using the Auto Consumers Buyers Guide and found that the RX 330 AWD was the best buy for this vehicle class. The RX 330 was rated number one for price as well as best drive and comfort for luxury SUVs. I am happy with my recent purchase. I love to drive my RX 330 on the open highway. This SUV is sleek and demands attention because of its shape. It is classy and smart.

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  Burts opinion of his Lexus 330 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Burt Pittler - October 5 - 10:33 am

  I am delighted with the quality of my Lexus. I have driven Lincolns for the last fifteen years and feel that that the Lexus 330 quality is equal to, or better than Lincoln

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  10star - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MItesh - October 5 - 10:00 am

  best suv ever best

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  Great car, but dangerous design flaw - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Tdiii_99 - September 22 - 2:00 am

  We are really happy with the car, but find the headlights to be unsafe. While the headlights are very bright and intense, they prevent almost all light diffusion. This creates a hazard when driving on unlighted roads as there will be pockets with visibility limited to 20 yards. If an animal or other object was in the road beyond the small illuminated area, one would have no realistic chance to react, even at very modest speeds. If one drives at a safe speed for this condition, one risks being a hazard to traffic approaching from behind.

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  My 2nd RX - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By DonM - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Just traded a 2000 RX300 for an RX330. The RX300 was the best vehicle Ive ever owner and the 330 ups the ante! My 2000 had all-wheel drive for the surefooted traction on wet roads. This time I went for the high end sound/navigation system but with FWD. Other than the totally useless rear entertainment system that comes standard with Nav system, Im very happy. Just did a 1,800 mile round trip up into the CA mountains and it was a pleasure to drive. The nav system was handy in finding alternate routes around Lake Tahoe and the FWD performed great in the snow once I got used to it. Nobody does it like Lexus!

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  Quality, Quiet and Comfort - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Nuffin - September 16 - 2:00 am

  The RX330 was the only vehicle that met all my criteria. I again enjoy driving, with the smooth ride and handling, and the solid performance on paved and gravel roads. Plenty of power for climbing hills on gravel roads, and the rain sensing wipers and xeon headlights are terrific for inclement Northwest winter weather. Its comfortable to handle, and I enjoy having a conversation with my whole family again, not just my front seat companion. Regular gas is a nice change, too, after years of premium for a lower quality vehicle.

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  Best mid-size SUV in its Class - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By badboybostonmass - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Lexus scores big once again, with an all new design RX330. Better designs interior and exterior makes the RX330 the future SUV. The RX330 drives as smooth as the finest luxury sedans and has excellent gas milege for a SUV. The lexus reliability along with the all wheel drive ability makes this in a league of its own! Others will fellow the trend of the RX330 as it will be once again another best seller.