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Lexus RX II 330 4WD (230 Hp)
Overall Rating
Lexus RX:
The Lexus RX is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Originally released in its home market of Japan in late 1997 as the Toyota Harrier, export sales began in March 1998 as the Lexus RX.
Considered as the first luxury crossover SUV by many sources, five generations of the RX have been produced to date, the first being compact in size, and the latter classified as mid-size. Both front- and four-wheel drive configurations have been used on the RX series, and several gasoline powertrain options, including V6 engines and hybrid systems, have been offered. In the Lexus model lineup, the RX sits below the larger Lexus LX , and below the body-on-frame, but also mid-size GX SUV. The name "RX" stands for "Radiant Crossover". It has also been labelled as "Recreational Cross Country" in some markets. The RX's current Toyota counterpart is the Highlander/Kluger; past counterparts included the Harrier and Venza....(Read more on Wikipedia)
II Overview:
Lexus RX (II). With 328 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1815 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.8 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Lexus RX II (XU30) was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, it performed well in US-based safety tests (IIHS), earning 'Good' ratings in various categories for its time, reflecting a strong commitment to occupant protection.
330 4WD (230 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Similar to the FWD 330, this variant offers strong and smooth 230 Hp, with 4WD providing enhanced traction and a slightly slower acceleration time.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is expected to be marginally higher than the FWD version due to the added weight and drivetrain losses of the 4WD system.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional reliability and build quality
- • Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- • Spacious and luxurious interior
- • Available efficient hybrid powertrain (RX 400h)
- • Strong resale value
Cons:
- • Steering can feel numb, lacking engagement
- • Base engines are adequate but not exhilarating
- • Some interior plastics show age over time
- • Limited off-road capability despite SUV styling
- • Infotainment system is dated by modern standards
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 1997 - 2003).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Lexus |
| Model: | RX |
| Generation: | II |
| Modification (Engine): | 330 4WD (230 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2003 |
| End of production: | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 230 Hp @ 5600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 69.7 Hp/l [154mm more] |
| Torque: | 328 Nm @ 3600 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 3MZ-FE More details about the engine 3MZ-FE |
| Engine displacement: | 3302 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 9.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 91.9 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 83 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 180 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1815 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2130 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 490 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 72 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4729 mm [154mm more] |
| Width: | 1844 mm [28mm more] |
| Height: | 1679 mm [19mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2715 mm [96mm more] |
| Front track: | 1575 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1575 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Lexus RX!