2005 Lexus RX330 Review


1. Introduction

Led by “Relentless Pursuit of Perfection,” Lexus give its RX300 a complete makeover for 2004. As such, the huge sale success in the Lexus lineup received an array of radical improvements including a more aggressive 3.3-litre V6 and an ensuing name: RX330. This article is Automila’s 2005 Lexus RX330 review with an aim of providing comprehensive information of the Lexus’s most popular model in Nigeria. Read on and enjoy!

The 2005 Lexus RX330 side view

The 2005 Lexus RX330  

As the first-generation RX’s styling was considered lacking the necessary boldness, Lexus stylists have given Lexus RX330 a sharper looking grille and rearmost roof pillar, which bring a more visual attitude. At the same time, with the engine receiving more power, backseat room being expanded, fresh high-tech features being added and handling being made tighter, the RX330 has been significantly improved from inside and out. Having said that, the Lexus team were cautious to retain the long-loved features such as a smooth drive, a gorgeous cabin, exceptional built quality, a peaceful performance on the road and a formidable reputation for reliability.

2005 LEXUS RX330 Las Vegas, Henderson, St. George, Cedar City, Summerlin, NV HDT1667A

The RX330 2005 has brought bolder styling, more luxury features, more space and more power to Lexus’s much loved mid-sized luxury sporty utility vehicle lineup.

2005 Lexus RX330 Specs

 2005 LEXUS RX330 SPECS
 ENGINE SPECS
 Engine  3.3L Gas V6
 Horsepower  230 @ 5600 RPM
 Torque  242 @ 3600 RPM
 DRIVETRAIN
 Drivetrain  Four Wheel Drive
 Transmission  5 speed  Automatic w/OD
 MPG (MILES PER GALLON)
 Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx  19.2 gal
 Engine  3.3L Gas V6
 Transmission  5 speed  Automatic w/OD
 EPA Fuel Economy Est (MPG)  City: 18 / Hwy: 24
 EXTERIOR SPECS
 Turning Diameter – Curb to Curb (ft)  37.4
 Turning Diameter – Wall to Wall (ft)  40.0
 Wheelbase (in)  106.9
 Length, Overall (in)  186.2
 Width, Max w/o mirrors (in)  72.6
 Height, Overall (in)  66.1
 Track Width, Front (in)  62.0
 Track Width, Rear (in)  61.2
 Min Ground Clearance (in)  7.48
INTERIOR SPECS
 Passenger Capacity 5
 Front Head Room (in) 39.4
 Front Leg Room (in) 42.5
 Front Shoulder Room (in) 57.9
 Front Hip Room (in) 55.6
 Second Head Room (in) 38.6
 Second Leg Room (in) 36.4
 Second Shoulder Room (in) 57.1
 Second Hip Room (in) 55.1
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
  • Air Conditioning-Auto Climate Control
  • Air Conditioning-Front
  • Air Conditioning-Multi-Zone
  • Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
  • Keyless Entry
  • Max Seating Capacity: 5
  • Mirror(s)-Power
  • Mirrors-Vanity-Driver
  • Mirrors-Vanity-Driver Illumination
  • Mirrors-Vanity-Passenger
  • Mirrors-Vanity-Passenger Illumination
  • Power Locks
  • Reading Lamps-Front
  • Seat-Adjustable Lumbar-Driver
  • Seat-Power Driver
  • Seat-Power Passenger
  • Seat-Rear Pass-Through
  • Seats-Front Bucket
  • Steering Wheel-Adjustable
  • Steering Wheel-Audio Controls
  • Steering Wheel-Leather
  • Steering-Power
  • Trip Computer
  • Trunk-Release-Remote
  • Universal Garage Door Opener
  • Windows-Power
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2005 RX330 engine and performance

The 2005 Lexus RX330 won’t disappoint a Lexus fan when it comes to driving experience, as it delivers all the Lexus hallmarks such as the smoothness and sophistication. Despite the occasional moments of confusion while dealing with the five-speed, the overall performance is very firm.

The 2005 Lexus RX330 in motion

The 2005 Lexus RX330 delivers all the Lexus hallmarks such as the smoothness and sophistication

Sharing many features with the Toyota Camry platform, the RX330 2005 is powered by a V6. With 3.3 liters, the  2005 Lexus RX330 engine is able to yield up to 230 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque, 10 hp and 20 lb-ft over those on the previous models. The more sturdy torque is comfortably controlled by the 5-speed automatic transmission, giving the RX330 more energetic merging and overtaking ability. The RX330 is offered in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Pitifully, its 3,500-pound towing capacity is retained and seems insufficient for a truck-based SUVs.

the 2005 Lexus RX330 under the hood

Sharing many features with the Toyota Camry platform, the 2005 Lexus RX330 is powered by a V6. With 3.3 liters

The RX330’s maneuverability remains refined and tranquil as its predecessor, but more athletic. Significantly stronger acceleration is felt, and the handling is much tighter if the car is armed with the air suspension. However, the RX was not such an engaging drive as some other Japanese rivals which offer exceptional feel on the steering wheel and excellent response.

The 2005 Lexus RX330

The 2005 Lexus RX330’s maneuverability remains refined and tranquil as its predecessor, but more athletic

Those who see driving is more of an excitement rather than a daily task should know that the RX330 is not made enough to be an SUV with a sport sedan attributes. So if you are seeking thrills behind the steering wheel, you should better opt for some other cars that trade off sensible features such as cargo and passenger space for a sportier ride. But for the larger majority of tokunbo luxury SUV buyers who just looking for a hassle-free and comfortable driving experience, the Lexus RX330 is unrivaled.

2005 Lexus RX330 Interior

From the inside, the 2005 RX330 features chrome-bordered gauges providing essential information. Tapering into the eye-catching center console is an angular center pod housing climate controls and audio-navigation system. The 2005 Lexus RX330 interior is dominant by faux metal surfaces in combination with rich wood detail which brings it a luxury theme. A companying its sleek interior is a youthful, sporty cabin. Rear passengers will feel comfortable with a 40/20/40-split rear seat which is able to recline and slide for maximum comfort even on long journeys. In the back, the RX330 offers 38.3 cubic feet of luggage bay, and an additional 85 cubes once the seats are folded down. Powered liftgate also comes standard.

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the 2005 Lexus RX330 from the fron seat row

From the inside, the 2005 Lexus RX330 features chrome-bordered gauges providing essential information

the 2005 RX330 dashboard

The 2005 Lexus RX330 dashboard

The Lexus RX330 2005 front seat row

The 2005 Lexus RX330 front seat row

The 2005 Lexus RX330 luggage bay

The 2005 RX330 offers 38.3 cubic feet of luggage bay

Lexus RX330 Review: Trim level

The 2005 Lexus RX330 is offered in a single model with 2 engine options of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Standard luxury features are added, including the anticipated automatic climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels and a CD player. Retaining the popular features such as the handy navigation system, powered moonroof and leather seats, the RX330 gets additional adaptable headlights, adaptable cruise control, adjustable air suspension, a backup camera, an advanced Mark Levinson audio system, and a DVD entertainment system.

Users were also better protected with a tire-pressure monitor, a driver knee airbag, side curtain airbag and a larger side airbag.

The 2005 Lexus RX330 cabin

Accompanying its sleek interior is a youthful, sporty cabin

2005 RX330 Thundercloud Edition

The 2005 Lexus RX330 Thundercloud Edition was introduced for the U.S market. It receives attractive aesthetical revisions, featuring chrome horizontal slats, exclusive black wood trim dubbed Bird’s Eye Maple, a set of 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, carpeted floor mats, and highlighted by Thundercloud badges. The Thundercloud edition is offered in two exterior colors including Thundercloud Metallic and Thundercloud Flint Mica. Please see the picture below for the comparison of the two versions.

2005 Lexus RX3302005 Lexus RX330 Thundercloud Edition

2005 Lexus RX330 vs. 2005 Lexus RX330 Thundercloud Edition

Lexus RX330 2005 for Sale

The 2005 Lexus RX330 is among the most sought-after models by Nigerian tokunbo car buyers. Below is Automilas.com advice on what look for before reaching your purchase decision.

Lexus RX330 2005 Problems

The Lexus RX330 boasts very high build quality so few troubles are reported, but its machines are quite complex ones and we strongly recommend you have a professional look on the one you are going to buy after you have your own careful inspection. Even though it is rarely used for off-roading, for any 2005 Lexus RX330 2005 problems, you should check for any signs of it under the sill panels, on the bumper corners, and any scratches on the doors. If there is any, unless the price is good, we suggest you look at another RX330 instead.

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If the mileage is high, do look for a smoking exhaust, especially when the engine is put under hard work. Do hard acceleration to check the automatic transmission. And look over the boot and interior to see if the car was a taxi.

From the outside, if the paint is faded then the car might not be kept in the garage very often, which can hurt not only the interior but also the body.

Also, please consult the latest fair market price for the Lexus RX330 and its siblings from the Lexus RX lineup below.

Price of 2005 Lexus RX330

Please refer to the below table for the 2005 Lexus RX330 price in Nigeria. We also provide prices of other model years for your further information and consideration.

Price of Lexus RX330 in Nigeria
Model year Price in Naira
RX330 1999 – 2003 price N1.7 million – N2.1 million
RX330 2004 – 2006 price N3.5 million – N4.5 million
RX330 2007 – 2009 price N5.5 million – N7 million

 

RX330 2005 review: Pros & Cons

Take all of the above discussion into consideration, following are the brief 2005 Lexus RX330 pros and cons:

 Pros  Cons
  • Sedan-feel rides
  • A lot of high-tech features
  • Known reliability
  • Well-appointed interior
  • Not very powerful when compared with some rivals
  • Soft rides offer just sufficient handling at corners
  • No third-row seating option

We at Automilas.com do hope that our 2005 Lexus RX330 review has provided a comprehensive look of this popular model from Lexus car marque. If you are interested in other models, visit our Reviews category for more inclusive reviews of the hottest cars in .