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 but has problems - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By HikeAz - August 17 - 10:00 am

  This is our first Lexus. We purchased this brand to avoid trips to the dealer for repairs, etc. Unfortunately, it hasnt turned out that way. We have had either an engine or transmission howl that is getting progressively worse. Perhaps if the rest of the car wasnt so quiet, we wouldnt notice the howl. To the credit of the dealership, they have bent over backwards to attempt to correct the situation but so far, no results. After this experience we would think long and hard before we spent the extra money on a Lexus. I think we will go back to good old Toyotas ... same or better quality at far less cost.

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  Not up to Lexus Quality - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By R. Thompson - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Love the way the car drives. Love the look inside and out, but---- Much noisier than the RX300 I had before. Transmission very rough and jerky. Air conditioner VERY noisy. Too many interior rattles. This one has to go back to the dealer for many problems--transmission, air conditioner. Not used to taking Lexusin for problems. Car has been disappointing--overall.

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  Love this car - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Red and jeff - August 14 - 8:26 am

  I have had this car for a year now and I love it. It is fun to drive, comfortable and I am 58". I love the power hatch dr. That is so handy when pulling up with groceries or whatever. My husband and I love the power memory seats too. Yeah. Only dislike, that Lexus says they are aware of is with the drive. It apparently has a computer memory and memorizes how you drive and adjusts. After about a month or so our car was reving at high speed and seemed like it was stuck in a higher gear for a few before slipping down. They reset it and it is working ok again.

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  Add cust svc category to ratings eval - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By waialae-iki - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This is one beautful piece of work! I was never one for SUVs but wifey wanted to try an SUV...This one really tops the list - all round best. I am not too keen on the location of the gear shifter nor the movable center armrest. But other than that, the que cards call for APPLAUSE!

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  Great Midsize vehicle - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Robert Wilt - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Fun car to drive.

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  RX330 Hits The Sweet Spot - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By J Ward - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Ive compared the RX330 to the X5 3.0 and MDX in my buying decision. Bottom line - Im impressed with and glad I bought the RX. Fit and finish are outstanding. Drives like a car yet provides enough height for visability and power for highway passing. The DVD Nav and Mark Levinson sound systems are incredible. The backup camera is a good compromise for the limited view rear window. No squeaks, rattles, engine or road noise as noted in previous Edmunds.com reviews. Though not as athletic and quick off the throtle as the X5 or cavernous as the MDX, the RX330 hits the sweet spot on safety,style,luxury,technology and performance you wont get tired of.

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  A terric car to own - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By RichardD - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I dont often get too excited about an automobile, but this one is GREAT. The ride is smooth, the sound system is superb and the way it handles in snow and ice is fabulous. I highly recommend it.

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  Love It! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By fenkazl - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Love it...second Lexus I have owned and the ride cant be beat. The comfort and dependability of the make is the best.

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  Lemon Lexus - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By billee - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I have been back and forth to the dealership since Aug.2003 with problems such as: drivers seat noise- 4times,trans-3times,door weather- stripping-2times,sunroof motor- 1time,dash board rattle-3times and counting.plus other interior noises.I have filed a claim and will be going to arbitration in the near future.

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  Better than our RX 300 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Stella May Catter - July 26 - 5:36 pm

  We have had two RX 300s and the RX 330 is much better in handling. Turnaround is quicker and seems to ride smoother. I like the new look and the roomier back compartment. So many other extras you didnt realize you would enjoy having. For once more is better!