Because of the Christmas holiday, I was able to have an RX330 loaner for 4 days while my RX300 was in for its 15,000 mile service. I had some time to compare the two, and overall, I prefer my RX300. Here are my thoughts...
Ride: The RX330 and RX300 are virtually tied for ride. I really didn't notice much of a difference
Noise: The RX330 is better insulated, but the engine is quite loud and intrudes upon acceleration. The 330 has more wind noise but the engine is quieter and less intrusive.
Transmission: The RX300 wins here. The 330 frequently hunted betweeen
2nd and 3rd and between 3rd and 4th. The result was jerky shifts that even my passenger noticed.Handling: Although the 330 initially seems to handle better, its steering "ocillates" at 40mph and above. So the edge needs to go to the 300.
Audio system: The 300 wins easily. The 330 sounds "shrill" and my passengers said it was unpleasant.
Comfort: I'm 6'2" and I fit OK in the 300. But I don't fit well in th
330 despite the tilt/telescope wheel. The problem is that the parking brake presses and rubs against my left foot which it doesn't do in the 300, and the accelerator is too close compared to the 300.Gas mileage: In city driving, it's a tie. In highway, however, the
330 seems to get 2mpg better.So, maybe Lexus has improved on the 300, but I don't see it.
Bob