What replaced the Lexus RX 330?
The Lexus RX 330, a popular luxury crossover SUV, was replaced by the Lexus RX 350 in 2006. The RX 350 built upon the success of the RX 330 by offering improved performance, updated styling, and additional features.
The Lexus RX 330: A Successful Luxury Crossover
The Lexus RX 330 was first introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the Lexus RX 300. It quickly became one of Lexus' best-selling models, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and practicality that appealed to many consumers. The RX 330 featured a 3.3-liter V6 engine, a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, and a well-appointed interior with premium materials and advanced technology.
The Transition to the Lexus RX 350
In 2006, Lexus unveiled the RX 350, which replaced the RX 330. The RX 350 retained the overall design and functionality of the RX 330 but with several key improvements:
- Increased Engine Displacement: The RX 350 featured a larger 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing more power and improved acceleration.
- Refined Styling: The RX 350 received a more modern and sophisticated exterior design, with updated headlights, grille, and other styling cues.
- Enhanced Technology: The RX 350 offered a range of new technology features, including a larger infotainment display, advanced safety systems, and improved connectivity options.
These updates helped the RX 350 maintain the Lexus brand's reputation for quality, luxury, and innovation, while also addressing some of the minor criticisms of the RX 330.
Continued Success of the Lexus RX
The Lexus RX 350 went on to become one of the best-selling luxury crossover SUVs in the market, building on the strong foundation established by the RX 330. Over the years, the RX line has continued to evolve, with subsequent generations introducing even more refinements and technological advancements. Today, the Lexus RX remains a popular choice for consumers seeking a premium, versatile, and well-rounded luxury crossover SUV.
What is the best year of Lexus RX 330?
The best years for the Lexus RX 330 are 2005 and 2006, with 2007 being recommended for the successor model, the RX 350. The 2006 model benefits from being the last year of the body style and likely having any minor issues from earlier years addressed. Many owners also report high reliability for the 2005 and 2004 models.
This video discusses the best years to buy a Lexus RX, including the RX 330: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 22, 2024
Recommended model years
- 2006: The final year of the RX 330, it's a good choice because it's likely to have had any kinks worked out from previous model years and benefits from the facelift it received in 2004.
- 2005: Frequently cited by owners as a standout model for reliability and quality materials, even after many years of use.
- 2004: While the first year of the model, it is still considered reliable, though it's generally best to check if any recalls or major component replacements have been completed.
What to consider
- RX 350 successor: The model immediately following the RX 330 was the RX 350. If you are open to that model, the 2007 year is considered a good choice as it was the first year of that generation and received a facelift. However, earlier RX 350 models (2007-2009) may have issues with power steering leaks and radiators, so later models like the 2010 or newer are generally recommended over them.
- High sales volume: 2006 was a high sales year for the RX 330, which could mean a greater selection of used vehicles to choose from.
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.
What is the Toyota version of the Lexus RX 330?
The RX's current Toyota counterpart is the Highlander/Kluger; past counterparts included the Harrier and Venza.
What year did RX 330 stop?
Between 2006 and 2007, the RX 330 became the RX 350, owing to an increased engine size from 3.3 litre to 3.5 litre – more power yet better economy.
