Lexus RX 330 is available with a choice of front-wheel drive ($35,775) or all-wheel drive ($37,175). It's powered by a sophisticated dual overhead-cam V6 with variable-valve timing, driving through a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
The list of standard luxuries is long, and includes automatic climate control, premium audio, cruise control, traction and stability control, privacy glass, automatic headlamps, fabric upholstery, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The list has been lengthened for 2005 with eight-way power for the front passenger seat, ten-way power for the driverseat, wood and leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob, AM/FM/CD stereo, and a power rear liftgate (previously optional) that's easier to use than before.
Standard safety equipment includes dual frontal airbags, front-seat side airbags, side-curtain airbags, plus driver's knee bag. The side-curtain airbags extend to help protect rear-seat passengers as well, and for 2005 there are roll-sensing curtain airbags in addition to the standard decelerometer. Lexus says it has upgraded materials in the 2005 RX 330 designed to improve side-impact protection.
There are no premium models or trim levels, but buyers can upgrade with free-standing options and option packages. The Premium Package ($2,145) includes leather upholstery, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, roof rack, and a one-touch moonroof. The Premium Plus Package ($2,960) adds high-intensity discharge headlamps with an adaptive front lighting system. The Performance Package includes all of the items in the Premium Package, plus 18-inch Graphite-colored aluminum alloy wheels with P235/55R18 tires, height-adjustable air suspension, sequential shifting transmission, rain-sensing wipers, and unique steering wheel and shift-knob treatment.
Open-sky enthusiasts who aren't content with the optional moonroof can opt for an even bigger multi-panel moonroof, which comes bundled with leather-trimmed upholstery and other features in a package ($3,740). The navigation system ($2,350) has been upgraded for 2005 with Bluetooth, voice activation, and improved graphics, and it comes with a rear-view camera that projects an image of much of what's behind whenever Reverse is selected. Dynamic cruise control ($600), a rear-seat entertainment system ($1,840), and an in-dash six-disc CD changer ($500) are also available.