What kind of engine is the RX 330?
The RX 330 is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine, the 3MZ-FE, delivering about 225 horsepower. It is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC powerplant built with aluminum components to balance performance and smooth operation in Lexus’s mid-2000s SUV lineup.
Engine details
Below are the core specifications of the RX 330’s powertrain as used in the mid-2000s models.
- Engine family: 3MZ-FE
- Displacement: 3.3 liters (3,300 cc)
- Configuration: V6, typically around 60 degrees
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 24 valves
- Induction: Naturally aspirated
- Fuel system: Sequential multi-point fuel injection
- Power output: Approximately 225 hp (167 kW) at around 5,600 rpm
- Torque: Around 240 lb-ft (325 Nm) at roughly 4,000 rpm
- Construction: Aluminum engine block and heads
- Timing: Timing chain-driven
These specifications contributed to a smooth, refined driving experience with adequate mid-range torque for city and highway cruising, reflecting Lexus’s focus on comfort and reliability in the RX line.
Context and model years
The RX 330 Model years in North America spanned roughly 2004 through 2006, serving as the successor to the RX 300. The 3MZ-FE engine shared lineage with other Toyota-Lexus V6 families of the era, including applications in the Camry and Solara, while tuning for the RX’s luxury SUV role.
Performance and reliability notes
In everyday use, the 3MZ-FE-powered RX 330 is remembered for smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and dependable performance when properly maintained. Common maintenance considerations for aging examples include keeping the cooling system healthy, monitoring the timing chain condition, and addressing standard wear items like spark plugs and ignition components. As with many older luxury SUVs, high-mileage vehicles benefit from proactive upkeep to sustain performance and efficiency.
Notes on fuel economy and driving
Real-world mileage varies with load, terrain, and maintenance, but the RX 330’s 3.3-liter V6 was generally viewed as delivering a comfortable balance of power and efficiency for its class in the mid-2000s.
Summary
The RX 330’s engine is a 3.3-liter V6 (3MZ-FE), a naturally aspirated 24-valve DOHC powerplant with aluminum construction. It delivers about 225 horsepower and roughly 240 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth, refined driving experience that aligned with Lexus’s luxury SUV positioning in its era.
What engine does RX 330 use?
Engine
| Base engine size | 3.3 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
What is the life expectancy of a Lexus RX330?
around 200,000-250,000 miles
You can expect a typical Lexus RX to last around 200,000-250,000 miles, with the high mileage point resting around 200,000 miles and good mileage sitting at 150,000 or more.
How much is a 2004 Lexus RX330 worth today?
The 2004 Lexus RX 330's price for a used model ranges from approximately $1,300 to over $16,000, with an average price of around $6,666. The specific value depends on factors like condition, mileage, and features. For comparison, the original base price was about $35,900 for the front-wheel-drive model and $37,300 for the all-wheel-drive version.
Used price breakdown
- Average price: Around $6,666, based on listings on sites like Autotrader.
- Price range: $2,200 to $15,995 on sites like Autotrader.
- Value by condition (Edmunds):
- Outstanding: ~$1,835
- Clean: ~$1,724
- Average: ~$1,538
- Rough: ~$1,297
- Current resale value: ~$4,850, with a trade-in value of ~$3,617, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Original base price
- 2004 Lexus RX 330 (FWD): Approximately $35,900
- 2004 Lexus RX 330 (AWD): Approximately $37,300
What's the difference between Lexus RX 330 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.
