Faults:

Transfer case seals replaced under warranty.

General Comments:

We purchased this car in Jan 2010 to replace a Volvo Cross Country. (See my review under Volvo Cross Country or Volvo XC70).

We've had no issues other than the transfer case seals mentioned above. I believe Lexus has upgraded these seals, as I have read this is a common problem that's been addressed. The car is perfect for a family of 4 such as ours. Easily fits all our gear when we go on holidays. The rear seats slide forward, which adds another 6 or so inches to the rear boot space.

It's a bit of a gas guzzler, so watch how you use your left foot. Transmission seems reasonably smooth, but to be honest, I've driven better. I think it's a case of the driver modifying the way the car's driven, as opposed to Lexus modifying the transmission. No other problems at all. The car has great ergonomics. Everything where you want it to be.

Even though this car is a 2005, we purchased it with only 38000kms on the clock. We intend to pay the extra and get this car serviced at the local Lexus dealer in Brisbane, and I anticipate having this car for at least the next 5-7 years.

Regardless of what happens with this car in the future, there's no way on Gods earth that it could be worse than the Volvo it's replaced.

Faults:

Almost faultless performance barring a few minor issues:

Leaking drivers side suspension strut, replaced under warranty.

Aircon overgassed during routine service, making a weird grinding noise.

Chamois coloured upholstery needs a fair amount of care.

General Comments:

I bought the RX330 as an anniversary surprise to replace my wife's beloved and ancient but bullet-proof 1997 ES300 LXS.

She loves driving it even more than the ES300, so let's call it a winning purchase..."Happy Wife = Happy Life".

Scarily silent when driving.

The Lexus routine servicing costs are definitely higher than for other makes, but as was with the ES300, the car always seems to run like new.

At over 5 years old, the exterior styling of the RX still seems very elegant and timely.

Faults:

I have test driven this car only and cannot comment upon reliability or service costs etc. I expect this vehicle to be very reliable however.

General Comments:

I have noticed that many persons have reviewed the RX300, but not the RX330.

I have recently test driven one and have been most impressed by the sheer luxury and gadget count of this vehicle.

Although I currently drive a German car (with a few more years to go until it is due for replacement), I was very tempted by the RX330. It is a far better buy than the IS300.

If you actually have recently purchased one of these vehicles, your comments (or separate review) will be appreciated as I would really appreciate your input on reliability and service costs.