Is the Lexus RX 330 4WD?

The Lexus RX 330 was offered with all-wheel drive (AWD); it is not a traditional 4WD with a low-range transfer case, but the AWD version provides traction to all wheels as needed.

The RX 330, produced for model years 2004 through 2006, used a 3.3-liter V6 and was sold with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations depending on the market and trim. The AWD system uses a center differential and an electronically controlled coupling to send torque to the front and rear axles as conditions demand. Lexus labels this as AWD rather than 4WD. This setup improves traction in rain, snow, and light off-road situations, but it is not intended for serious off-roading or low-range crawling.

Drivetrain basics: AWD vs 4WD

Before listing practical details, note the difference between AWD and traditional 4WD. AWD is a full-time system that can automatically send power to both axles, while 4WD typically uses a transfer case with a low-range gear for rugged off-road use. The RX 330's AWD is designed for on-road traction and weather conditions, not for heavy off-road use.

Model years and drivetrain options for the RX 330 show how the vehicle was configured in various markets. Here are common configurations observed in North American markets:

• 2004 RX 330: introduced with options for AWD or FWD depending on the package.


• 2005–2006 RX 330: continued availability of AWD as an option or standard on some trims; V6 3.3L engine; 5-speed automatic transmission.


• There were RX 330 models with FWD in some markets; AWD is the version that provides traction in adverse conditions.

Conclusion: The RX 330 came in both AWD and FWD configurations; if you want true four-wheel traction, look for an AWD badge and verify the option code in the VIN or window sticker.

How to verify if your RX 330 is AWD

To confirm whether a specific Lexus RX 330 has all-wheel drive, you can use the following steps. Each step helps verify the drivetrain configuration and whether it includes AWD components.

1. Check the exterior badges: Look for an "AWD" badge on the tailgate or rear bumper area.


2. Review the VIN or window sticker: The vehicle's original documentation lists the drivetrain; search for "AWD" or "4WD" in the drivetrain/drive configuration line or the option code.


3. Inspect the undercarriage: If you find a front prop shaft running to the rear differential, the car has AWD (some models used a rear differential with a transfer case).


4. Test drive: If the vehicle shows balanced traction in wet or snowy conditions and delivers torque to both axles during acceleration, AWD is active. Note that some AWD systems primarily react to loss of traction.

Conclusion: By checking badges, documentation, and the drivetrain layout, you can confirm AWD on a specific RX 330.

Summary

The Lexus RX 330 was offered with an all-wheel-drive option, though not branded as 4WD. It uses a full-time AWD system with a center differential to distribute torque to both axles as needed and does not include a low-range transfer case. If you need four-wheel traction for weather or light off-road use, the AWD RX 330 is suitable; for serious off-roading, a purpose-built 4WD vehicle would be more appropriate. Always verify the exact drivetrain configuration on a specific vehicle via the VIN, window sticker, and badge.

Is the 2004 Lexus RX330 AWD?

If you're looking for a small luxury SUV, I high recommend the RX 330. The AWD allows maximum traction during all sorts of weather.

Is the Lexus RX330 4WD?

2006 Lexus RX330-V6-AWD Utility 4D AWD Specifications.

What's the difference between Lexus RX330 and 350?

The main difference is the engine: the RX 330 has a 3.3L V6, while the RX 350 has a more powerful 3.5L V6. This switch occurred in 2006, and the RX 350 model also features a 5-speed transmission compared to the RX 330's 4-speed, along with a timing chain instead of a timing belt, which can reduce maintenance costs. Other differences include updated styling on the RX 350, such as a revised grille and chrome door handles, and some interior and technology updates.
 
Engine and drivetrain

• RX 330: Features a 3.3L V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. It uses a timing belt that requires periodic replacement. 
• RX 350: Features a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. It has a timing chain, which generally does not require scheduled replacement. 

Performance and maintenance

• Performance: The 3.5L engine in the RX 350 provides more horsepower and torque than the 3.3L engine in the RX 330. 
• Maintenance: The timing chain in the RX 350 eliminates the need for a costly timing belt service, which is a recurring expense for the RX 330. 

Exterior and interior

• Exterior: The RX 350 has updated styling, including a slightly different grille and chrome door handles on some models, compared to the RX 330.
• Interior: The RX 350 may have some interior differences, such as the wood trim and shift knob, and the absence of a cassette tape player. 

Technology and safety

• Technology: Later models of the RX 350 may include additional technology and safety features, such as DVD navigation and more advanced airbag systems.
• Safety: The RX 350 may also have some safety upgrades, such as roll-sensing airbags and a more advanced all-wheel-drive system. 

Does the Lexus RX have 4WD?

LEXUS CROSSOVERS/SMALL SUVS WITH AWD
The RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 350 F Sport present AWD as an option to the standard FWD, but the hybrids, the 450h and 450hL, are AWD only.