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Comments
Wheel circumference is approx. 88 inches means tires must rotate 840 times/minute at 70MPH. 3:12 final drive ratio gives 2620 RPM. RX330 with a higher final drive ratio would mean higher engine RPM at equal speed.
As in:
http://www.hobbystage.net/porsche/wwest
But winter's over, the X3 and the SRX are coming before the next snow flys.
The new RX330's rear suspension clearance is if anything even tighter than the RX300!
Overall the vehicle is very much an engineering work of art, automotive artform anyway.
Being one of the only RX 330 owners on this forum and a past owner of an M-Class I value your opinion quite a bit and have a few questions for you.
Did you hesitate buying the first model year of the RX 330 after what had happened with the first year M-Class? I understand that they are two totally different brands, but did you have any concerns and if so, what convinced you to buy so early?
I have also noticed that you have had a problem with the wind/road noise, how would you compare it to your M-Class? I too have a M-Class that I think has quite a bit of wind noise and I would hope that there is less in the RX.
What do you think of the Mark Levinson sound system, and was it a big improvement from the system in your M-Class.
I apologize for all the questions, however, I want to make sure that I am making the right decision in buying a: first year model, and buying something else than another ML 320.
Any other thoughts/problems that you have experienced with the car would be greatly appreciated so that I feel that I am making the right decision.
Thanks for your input
Yes, I did have some trepidation about buying a first year model, but IMHO Lexus has proved itself adept in maintaining their usual quality in these models. Plus, I see it as more of a refinement of the 300's rather than a newly designed one.
I wanted a performance package with the nav but found out that at least initially, these limited models were not being offered in our region (midwest) and that it'd take at least 4 months to get one. That would push the date back to Aug/Sept. That's when the Ontario plant is supposed to come on line to build the 330's and I preferred to get one built in Japan. So I took the one of two not "presold" units coming in during March/April and because it'd be several more weeks before more unsold models would arrive at my dealers (not that I didn't trust my salesman but I asked to look at their allocation sheets).
My 330 is a little noisier than the ML 430 I traded in. But another RX330 I test drove was quiter. But the 330 needs more sound insulation. Otherwise, it compares very favorably to ML 430, even in performance. The interior is definitely better and with the nav/backup camera, tilt down mirrors, and correct settings of the side mirrors, I don't believe there are any "blind spots" as some have reported. My wife says that the Mark Levinson is better than the Bose unit in the ML.
The only problem so far (1000 miles)is the roof rack rail that keeps popping up at one end and the noise (which may not be "fixable", but I remember after the M-class came out, M-B retrofitted the early models with double door seals and more insulation).
The roof racks are installed at the port and NOT part of the factory build. My door locks will have to be reprogrammed by the dealer because because when the driver's door is opened, the other doors remain locked unless you manually flip the unlock button or use the key feature. You can't reprogram it yourself (that I'm aware of).
Overall, the RX330 is definitely a higher quality vehicle than my 2000 ML 430. By this time with it I had to take it back to the dealer several times to fix things. IMHO other M-B's have suffered the same poor quality and reliability as the M-class (according to JD Powers & Consumers Report, among other sources), even the E and S-classes. Hopefully, Lexus will maintain their stellar reputation. Another note, Lexus has treated us far better (we bought my wife's ES 300 from them a year ago)than did M-B. later, ldf
Plus: sporty handling, look?
Minus: poor cargo space, small rear seat, lousy gas milage, heavy, very expansive
RX330:
Plus: Superb quality, quiet, faster, roomy, reasonable price, gas milage, and luxurious, rear look?.
Minus: rear look?
IMO, luxury is the only way to travel in the US freeway. Unless you bring your car to the race track, buy BMW X5.
Prius/Insight power vs MPG will not compare to what the new hybrids will have. These earlier cars are basically to prove hybrids to be commercially feasible.
Acura will have a 400HP V6 hybrid, I suspect for the new NSX. I expect a Toyota V6 hybrid to produce about 300-350 HP in the RX, and still have MPG equivalent to a 4 cylinder import. Yes, 4 cylinder.
I realize this forum is not meant for personal attacks, but wwest insulted all users of nav first. Just because you don't have one/don't know how to use one/pants on too tight/whatever reason, doesn't mean he can call nav users idiots who can't read a map. Ever heard of spontaneous road trips with your loved one? How about a sales professional who drive all over the country on sales calls.
With regard to not being a happy happy lexus forum. I agree, I want to hear about transmission issues, road noise, pricing, availability, etc. Who cares about front biased or rear biased AWD? Many of us are buying the 2wd. Even if we are interested, we dont need to hear it 15 million times. There must be an AWD transmission forum somewhere he can go to.
I wish Lexus will build him an RX with no windows (so it can't fog up), no AC (so it can't kill him with toxic gasses, won't need one with no windows anyway); no transmission, just give him one forward, and one reverse, driving all for wheels equally; no suspension, just springs on his seats. Maybe then he will quit bitching. Any Lexus reps out there? Can this be done PLEEEEASE?
Sorry. That's all. No more comments from me. I will use the down key from now on when I see WWEST posts.
"DAMN...Double Damn! The new RX330's rear suspension clearance is if anything even tighter than the RX300!"
Gonna be hard pressed to mount them 22" rims but, on the bright side, there's more room inside the RX330 for the new twin set of 18" woofers...
Relax; this just gets funnier and funnier.
I do have a nav system in my RX and I do know how to use it and none of the complaints I have made about the Nav have anything to do with its lack of "human interface" features or capabilities.
And again, none of the nav problems I have related indicate that those problems relate to lack of operator capability or stupidity.
Unlike some others I tend to think when a automotive function doesn't work as expected and/or as one's life's experienced has "taught", the fault lies with the manufacturer, not "operator error".
From: Customer_Satisfaction_Inquiries@lexus.com
To: Willard West
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2003 2:45 PM
Subject: RX330 [Incident: 030303-000001]
Recently you submitted a question to the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Department.
We will assume your issue has been resolved if we do not hear from you within 120 hours.
Thank you for allowing us to be of service to you.
You may also update this question by replying to this message. Because your reply will be automatically processed, you MUST enter your reply in the space below. Text entered into any other part of this message will be discarded.
[===> Please enter your reply below this line <===]
Last night I visited Lexus of Bellevue to see the new RX330. When I checked the rear tire suspension clearance it appeared to me to be even tighter than the RX300.
As you can see below you previously told me that the new RX330 "should" have enough clearance to permit the use of snowchains on the rear and on that basis I went ahead and had my salesman put me on the "list". Was your statement a mistake or is there a later mod coming that increases the clearance?
Willard West
[===> Please enter your reply above this line <===]
If your issue remains unresolved, please update this question here.
Subject
RX330
Discussion Thread
Response (Denise Academia) 03/11/2003 02:45 PM
Dear Mr. West:
Thank you for contacting the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Department regarding the
2004 RX 330.
The vehicle will have front, center and rear differentials, without the use of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD), in the center differential. The vehicle will not require the viscous coupling because traction control and vehicle skid control will transmit power to the appropriate wheels upon detection of wheel slippage. Also, the RX 330 should have enough rear wheel suspension clearance for the use of snow chains.
If you have any further concerns, you can also reach the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Department at 1-800-255-3987, Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Pacific Time.
Sincerely,
Denise Academia
Customer Satisfaction Representative
Customer (Willard West) 03/06/2003 03:45 PM
No answer yet ???
Customer (Willard West) 03/03/2003 01:00 PM
Dear Sir,
The early press releases indicated the new RX330 eliminates the center viscous clutch in favor of a Sequoia-like brake modulation AWD torque apportioning system. I have already placed my order for the RX330 (to replace my wannabee AWD 01 RX300) based on the above information.
Now I note that Lexus.com and Lexus.ca are both indicating the viscous clutch is a holdover on the RX330.
Which is the truth?
Willard West
PS: Will the RX330 have enough rear wheel suspension clearance such that I can use snowchains (rear only or all 4) without be threatened with loss of control?
From: Customer_Satisfaction_Inquiries@Lecus.com
To: Willard West
Sent: Friday, April 4, 2003, 11:50 AM
Subject: RX330 [Incident: Z040403]
Recently you submitted a question to our Customer Satisfaction Department.
After due consideration and a review of the many similar pendantic communications you have sent in the past, here is our advice:
DON'T BUY ANY MORE VEHICLES FROM US - WE DON'T WANT YOUR MONEY.
Sincerely,
Customer Service
There are two areas of mileage performance gain in a hybrid.
1. Hybrid "boost" capability allows lower weight lower displacement engine which provides more economical operation when just cruising along.
2. Recovery of waste energy using regenerative braking otherwise disappated as heat during braking.
Producing 400HP in an NSX will not result in either of these savings. It is likely the standard 300 HP recip engine will still be used with a 100 HP battery "boost". Unless you're planning on doing a lot of slow stopping and soft starts in favor of just an occasional/rare WOT use regenerative braking will not be able to charge the batteries enough to yield substantial MPG increments thus you will be using the recip to charge those batteries.
2+2 still equals 4.
new model discounts are normally unavailable. However the Management of
Lexus Kearny Mesa has made a decision to extend to our INTERNET
CUSTOMERS ONLY a $1,000.00 DISCOUNT on any NEW RX330 if purchased by
April 30, 2003!"
Please do not take this as an endorsement. I posted this to show the the initial rush to be first on the block to have a new 330RX is over. Wait another month and the discounts should be greater.
In case you really want details: Unlike hybrid vehicles where either the engine or the motor powers the vehicle, the V6 engine will power the rear wheels, while an electric motor will power the front wheels.
Tell me you already have a 300HP V6 running the same MPG. And I will fork out $85k for it, and forget about future hybrids.
Time will tell...
If it actually arrives at all.
The ML350 was loud (engine noise), but I was surprised at how fast it would go despite being the slowest of the cars (IMO). It was also very truck like and bumpy on the "estate" coarse.
The MDX had a cheap feel to the interior (always been my complaint on Acura cars), it had all the luxury options, but just a bad presentation of them. Otherwise, faster than ML and a good package for value.
The X5, even faster, I didn't like the heavy steering (even though it had speed sensitive steering). But the interior is surprisingly cramped, it was also pretty loud. Fun car to drive, not a whole lot of utility or comfort.
I passed on the Volvo, they brougt the Light pressure Turbo. Not a big Volvo fan, except for the C70.
RX330, more space, more comfort, and best looking interior IMO. Speed wise, I honestly felt the X5 was faster, but I realize "feel" is not always accurate. This drove more like the MDX, just better, quiter, smoother. Best ride on the estate course.
It matches what we look for. performance and comfort. I did ask about the hybrid. Will be out end of 2004 as a 2005. Should be a couple grand more than current AWD.
http://www.teckkits.com/nafooesi/fun/rx330roof.jpg
http://www.teckkits.com/nafooesi/fun/rx330roof2.jpg
If it actually arrives at all."
The gas models get 20 MPG in the city (http://www.edmunds.com/future/2004/lexus/rx330/100154000/specs.h- tml?tid=edmunds.spotlight.landing.links..3.*).
So if the improvement is less than 5 MPG, then the hybrid is not going to be that compelling.
A salesperson called to let me know that they'd have an RX330 prototype on the lot in February. As soon as it arrived, I beat a path down there (in the rain) to check it out. I liked all the features, told myself the wider D pillar made it look a lot more masculine than the RX300, tried to warm up to the placement of the interior's aluminum trim and faux wood, and figured I could get by with the limited headroom (I'm 5'11).
My girlfriend, brother and several co-workers tried to convince me that the redesigned 330 was still very feminine looking. I ignored the comments I heard on the showroom floor "What's so different about it?" I was still ready to buy. But, the car wasn't going to hit the dealerships until April. Good thing.
In the meantime, I test drove a BMW X5, Acura MDX and Volvo XC90. I quickly narrowed it down to the RX and the X5. Then, I began to read the rave reviews of the Infiniti FX45. But, I discounted it because my initial impression of the pictures was that it was "odd" looking. Until I saw one in person. What a sharp looking vehicle! I think the thing that had initially turned me off, was now attractive to me. It was fresh and different. So, it became a contender.
Then I found out that BMW would be changing the X5's design for 2005. So, it came down to the RX vs. the FX. I test-drove the FX. It was amazing! The performance and handling were unbelievable! Not to mention the Intelligent Key feature. Check out (all) the reviews.
Then, I had the opportunity to drive an RX. It left me VERY disappointed. The suspension was definitely softer and it provided a more "luxurious" ride than the FX, but the RX's handling was "mushy" and there was a lot of body roll. It felt very underpowered. I guess it's not far to compare 315 HP to 230 HP, but pricing for the additional thoroughbreds is comparable to the RX. And you can get a (280 HP) V6 FX35 with Technology Package for the same cost as a fully loaded RX. So that's the way I decided to go. I've had the FX for a couple weeks now, and am having a blast!
I think the thing that turned me off most to the RX was one of the reviews. It had a Lexus VP talking about the changes made to "accommodate a larger purse." That reaffirmed what I already knew. THIS IS STILL A SOCCER MOM'S CAR. That's the market the vehicle was designed for and that's who will continue to purchase the majority of RX330s.
Don't get me wrong, the RX330 is a beautiful vehicle with some cool features. I think it's perfect for hauling the kids back and forth to school and soccer games. But, if you’re looking for performance and fun (and don't mind a lot of attention) there is NO comparison between the RX330 and the FX45/FX35. Do yourself a favor and keep looking.
(Formerly) RX330Guy
have fun
(former) RX330guy - Thank goodness you figured out that the RX330's target buyer is soccer moms. For someone who says (he) followed Lexus product development closely enough to have gotten on the RX waitlist last October, that seems to have taken awhile to sink in with you. Lexus press releases and public statements at auto shows certainly don't are quite upfront about that.
No doubt about it - Your new preferred vehicles, the BMW X5 and the Infiniti FXs, aim at very different buyers.
The new RX330 continues to offer comfort and luxury (a Lexus hallmark), sharply increased cargo capacity (@84.7 cu.ft.), and balanced performance/economy (0-60 in 7.8 seconds (auto); 18/24 MPG (AWD)). The X5 (3.0)/FX (35/45) are (allegedly) more performance & handling oriented. But they sacrifice luxury, cargo capacity (X5 - 54.4 cu.ft; FX45 - 60.4 cu.ft.) and fuel economy (X5 - 15/20; FX45 -15/19) to get there. And while you can't quantify "feel", it's certainly not clear that they offer better performance. I can't find a manufacturer's 0-60 time for the FX's, but it's interesting to note that the X5's listed 0-60 time (8.1 (manual); 8.6 seconds (auto)) lags behind the the RX330's. Quality and reliability doubtless also figure in to many buyers' decisions, with history suggesting that Lexus is the leader there, too.
Still, it sounds like image matters to you. Perhaps your relatives' criticism of the RX's "feminine" styling got to you. And it's good you read before you bought that one design goal for Lexus in the new RX330 was to accomodate "a larger purse" for female drivers BETWEEN the front seat passengers. (Frankly, I think that's pretty sensible, since in most cars the options are throw it in the rear seat or throw it under the front seat passenger's feet.) I'm sure you don't have anything to be insecure about, but it's surely better that what you said you already knew -- that the RX is targeted at soccer moms -- became clearer to you before you wrote your check and drove home in an RX330. I hope the FX works out for you.
I'd be surprised if many people are cross shopping the RX330 and the FX. And to the extent that there is cross shopping between the RX330 and the X5, I'll bet the deciding factor is space v. "handling". I would not be surprised, though, if buyers agonize more in picking among the RX330, Acura MDX, Volvo X5 and MB 350. Gotta go with what works for you. (I'm just glad we have all these choices, 'cause it means that dealers are going to have a lot of trouble demanding full MSRP with the constant new product introductions and updates.)
I just have one question - I'm 6'2" and have a RX300 (with moonroof); I fit just fine in the driver's seat, even with the seat in it's max "lift" position. I sat in a new RX330 at the Auto Show and it had more headroom than our 2001.
You're 5'11" and have no headroom? Wow, must be a pair of really short legs in there somewhere. You know the driver's seat bottom adjusts up and down, right?
Oh - one more item. I'm an ex-Infiniti owner - start preparing for the fact that six months from now, the FXers will be going out the door $100 under invoice and first year's depreciation will be hitting the proverbial 25% fan.
Of course, that's just a guess...based on every model Infiniti has ever sold. I'm sure your mileage will vary.
After initial hesitation, really glad we went with the Black-on-Black on my VP/NAV 330. Both the outside and inside trimming really shows well on the black. I know, darker colors show dirt more easily, but IMO it's worth it to get the overall sharp effect. Couple of other points about the look. The clear tail lights, a couple of reviewers have criticized, again work quite well with the black and the back and rear tailgate is distinctive and quite different from the 300. It works for me. Overall, IMO the 330 will continue to appeal to women, but now with its new rakish looks, boost in performance, and better handling more guys will feel quite comfortable tooling around town and on the highway with this SUV.
As expected, our 330 has been rock-solid. My wife loves it. I kiddingly asked her the other day if I should return it and she zinged back at me that if I did, I might as well not come back home.
However, I do believe I discovered a design flaw. While driving on the highway I noticed an annoying tapping noise coming from the rear. It would get worse with increased speed. I went through the normal process of elimination (seats, moon roof, doors, cargo area) without resolution. Finally, I got in the back while my wife drove and discovered the noise was coming from outside of the vehicle. Upon inspection, I found that the cross rails have metal rollers upon which they can be moved (positioned) on the roof rails. However, in position they are not very stable so when the wind hits them, they start tapping against the roof rails. I then went to my dealer and the service guy confirmed the flaw. He checked other 330s and stated they all had the same problem and undoubtedly was a design problem. I then requested the cross rails be removed since I probably would never use them anyway. That was done and now no more noise. The service guy stated that this would be provided to Lexus and a TSB would likely follow. A rubber grommet around the metal roller would probably do the trick.
Anybody else discover this problem?
But, 400HP, 25% of that delivered to the front wheels via embedded electrics, on demand. Batteries mounted in the front for weight balance.
Did you notice who won the SRPII class at the 24 hours of Daytona, running a Lola chasis and a Nissan V6 engine?
Pictures at teamseattle.com
A 400HP T-top NSX, with room for a 6'2" driver (PLEASE...) at $100,000....a few buyers out there not very interested in MPG, I would guess.
AND 25MPG !!!
Just saying the RX330/e may be just as much about performance (see post 286 above) as fuel economy.
Please share with us the name of the dealers(and city) that have offered the discount. Thanks.
I liked the FX35 and was ready to buy but watch out for the roof height in the rear cargo area. My dog won't go in since her back hits the roof and she needs to keep her head ducked and still growing. This car really looks great with the Liquid Copper paint job and the 20 inch wheels.
The problem with the X5 is cargo area with the rear seats up, the rear seats do not fold fully flat, and the tailgate makes it a larger height off the ground then most for entry into the car. (Bad for a dog that does not jump)
Also looked at the 4 runner but don't like the dash controls and the Highlander does not come with a NAV system which I want for the trips.
In the EV industry, Toyota is talking about V8 torque with Toyota Echo MPG for the RX330e.
wwest, thanks for the dollar. I will be collecting end of next year.
JRYN, I did not know one could drive in the HOV if you are in an EV. I need to see if that is true in Texas. Cool info, Thanks!
As for Acura, look for the next gen hybrid engine in future NSX and possibly RL models. My references to NSX is just merely to metion what is to come in the EV industry.
I don't know what the LEXUS position is, but I know that MB destroyed a NJ dealer for giving discounts and I don't want to do anyone harm.
My point was that discounts are available now, you just have to try. No dealer said no (all did initially). In the end, all said $1000 or more. The best being $2000. Just state your fair price and be willing to walk out if you can't arrive at an acceptable number. If you don't hear from the salesman within a week or two, you can always go in and buy for sticker.
Both have the same engine, but the awd on the Sienna caught my eye. Currently have a 300 - like it, rolled the lease for a couple months until both these cars come out. So its time to make a choice. I'm interested in hearing your thoughts - there are some very interesting posts.
Pricing: RX base is less than Ltd base, options push RX higher
Engine: Same
AWD: Same I think
Trans: RX seemed sportier
Acceleration: RX quicker
Room: Sienna, by far
Inside look: RX sharper
Outside: Look similar (the 330 looks more like a minivan than the 300)
Utility: Sienna
Luxury Features: Similar (Most used feature, memory seat, left off Sienna (??)), Sienna may have a little more.
Cup holders: Just kidding.
The Sienna LTD is not a Lexus, but if you read some of the boards, its being called the Lexus minivan. I ususally take a couple trips to VT and MI from NJ - the 300 seems to be getting smaller (ok, recently had a boy, which can quickly fill up a vehicle).
I'm very likely to be getting a 2'nd vehicle as well, and am leaning towards a GS or G35, which may take care of the performance wants.
What octane do they suggest? What do the
owners use?
DB