Is Lexus 330 an SUV?
No. There is no current model named “Lexus 330.” The 330 badge appears on older Lexus models, most notably the RX 330 SUV and the ES 330 sedan from the mid-2000s.
Historical context of the 330 suffix
Engine and drive configurations
Both ES 330 and RX 330 used a 3.3-liter V6 engine and offered front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) depending on year and trim.
In Lexus naming, numeric suffixes often hint at engine displacement or trim. The 330 designation appeared on two distinct body styles in the mid-2000s: a sedan (ES 330) and an SUV (RX 330). These models were later replaced by newer generations using the ES 350 and RX 350 designations, respectively.
Below is a quick look at the two models that carried the 330 badge.
- ES 330 — sedan, typically produced 2004–2006, powered by a 3.3L V6, with front- or all-wheel drive depending on year and trim.
- RX 330 — SUV/crossover, typically produced 2004–2006, powered by a 3.3L V6 with optional AWD, part of the second-generation RX lineup.
These 330-badged models are no longer in production; their successors use newer designations like ES 350 and RX 350.
Current Lexus naming conventions and the absence of a 330
Today’s Lexus lineup uses suffixes that no longer map directly to engine displacement. There is no active model called “330.” The brand’s current SUVs commonly use RX 350 or RX 450h, and sedans use ES 350 or hybrid variants like ES 300h, among others.
In short, a badge reading “330” on a modern Lexus is a legacy reference rather than a current model line.
- There is no active Lexus model called “330.”
- Historical 330-badged models were part of older generations: ES 330 (sedan) and RX 330 (SUV) from the mid-2000s.
That means if you encounter a “330” badge on a Lexus today, it almost certainly references a legacy model rather than a current production model.
Summary
Conclusion: Lexus 330 is not a current SUV. The RX 330 was an SUV badge used in the mid-2000s, while the ES 330 was a sedan; modern Lexus SUVs use RX 350, RX 450h, and other suffixes, with no 330 designation in regular production.
Is the Lexus RX330 an SUV?
The Lexus RX (Japanese: レクサス・RX, Hepburn: Rekusasu RX) is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota.
What's the difference between a Lexus 330 and a Lexus 350?
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Lexus RX 330's base engine makes 223 horsepower, and the Lexus RX 350 base engine makes 275 horsepower. The RX 330 is rated to deliver an average of 20 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 437 miles.
What are the disadvantages of the Lexus RX330?
The RX330 has gotten good scores from Edmunds.com with reliability scores of 4.7 to 4.8 across three year models. Just like any other vehicle, the Lexus RX330 may develop issues as it racks up mileage. Problems include delayed shifting, faulty fuel pumps, worn window trims, cracked dashboards, and warped brake rotors.
Is RX 330 a good car?
Yes, the Lexus RX 330 is widely considered a good car due to its excellent reliability, comfort, and smooth ride. It is praised for its durable engineering, high-quality interior materials, and strong safety ratings, making it a dependable and comfortable choice, even as a used vehicle.
What makes it a good car?
- Reliability: The RX 330 has a strong reputation for reliability and longevity, with many owners reporting high mileage with minimal issues.
- Comfort and Smoothness: It is known for a quiet and comfortable ride, often described as feeling more like a sedan than a traditional SUV. The interior is well-appointed with features like real wood and leather in many models.
- Performance: The 3.3-liter V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving and is paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission.
- Safety: The RX 330 received high safety ratings, including five-star ratings from the NHTSA for front and side-impact safety, and was named a "Best Pick" by the IIHS for its frontal-offset crash test performance.
- Features: Many models come with desirable features such as a sunroof, and some owners have even added modern amenities like a rearview camera and Bluetooth.
Things to consider
- Age and maintenance: As a 15-20 year old vehicle, its condition will depend heavily on its maintenance history. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended.
- Fuel economy: While reliable, fuel economy is not its strong suit, typical for a V6-powered SUV of its era.
- Outdated technology: It lacks modern technology features like standard Bluetooth, but this can often be updated with an aftermarket head unit.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Lexus RX 330's performance and features: 1mHondata97YouTube · May 28, 2025
This video provides a detailed look at the interior and design of the Lexus RX 330: 58sAutomotivePressYouTube · Jun 27, 2025
