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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  Possible Lemon? - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By lisam - March 30 - 2:00 am

  I wanted this car the moment I test drove it in April - got it in July. Problems started right away with the acceleration, dealer reset the transmission and it is somewhat better. but now there is a creaking/rattle in the windshield/dash area - dealer insulated it but it is back. did I get a lemon - paid 41,900 on a 44,900 sticker? anyone have any ideas?

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  RX330 Disappointment - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Tom from Richardson - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I am rather disappointed at my vehicle, because I had high expectations for this Lexus SUV. I am sure the engine and the mechanicals will probably be trouble free for many years. However, I dont think the Lexus engineers have paid enough attentions to small details. There are some little rattles and twisting/grinding interior noises. The brake pad also makes noise when release too quickly. The center console is weird. I cannot even find a place to put my cell phone. This vehicle also shares too many components with other Toyota vehicles, such as the engine, steering wheel, and gauges. It makes Lexus look cheap.

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  EARLY EXPERIENCE WITH LEXUS - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By STAR - March 24 - 2:00 am

  ONLY OWNED APPROX. THREE MONTHS, BUT SO FAR, NOT A SINGLE PROBLEM. VERY COMFORTABLE AND RIDES AS WELL AS MY 2003 LINCOLN TOWNCAR. ONLY POSSIBLE COMPLAINT IS THAT THE DASHBOARD IS LOADED WITH BUTTONS THAT A WHILE TO GET FAMILAR WITH.

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  It makes my driving a lot better - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Miltoro - March 24 - 2:00 am

  The seats are very comfortable and sit high over the road for maximum visibility. I dont get tired after a ong drive. Living in Maine, I find that the heated seats in front are most welcome.The rides is very smooth.I feel extremely safe in this car. The manufacture has done everything possible to make it the safest SUV.I recommend it highly and will plan to replace it eventually with another one just like it.

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  quiet and smoother than most sedans - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By arick - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a quiet, smooth, comfortable SUV....Ive found it! Im very pleased with the upgraded HP, the vehicle accelerates so smoothly and quietly that ive caught myself driving 15 mph over the speed limit! In my 2000 Jeep GC I could tell how fast I was driving by the sound of the engine and amount of wind/road noise - not now!

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  My toy - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Betty Storm - March 13 - 10:00 am

  After six months ownership, there is not another SUV I would trade my toy for, the performance is good.

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  Ultra practical - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Norton - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Drove an S2000 before this car, and yet Im still imprssed with its handling and pick-up. Extremely comfortable and a joy to drive on the interstate. Unless you want to go off-roading, this SUV is the way to go. Ultra practical.

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  Best Car I have ever drivin - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Rashied - February 28 - 10:00 am

  The title explans it

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  Whew what a car! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By MOMS Cool RX330 - February 16 - 2:00 am

  One ride and your set! I had the Rx 300 and this Rx330 is quite the difference! Just awesome!

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  2004 RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By guywsapp - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I previously owned an RX300. I liked it enough that I traded for the RX330. The 330 has a tighter turning radius and is much steadier on interstate driving (no darting about) The additional power is very evident. The interior is really about the same. At this point I would move into another RX when a new design is brought out. I do like my RX.