Can anyone help me please? Is the RX series just a bad design?
Okay, first, the RX is NOT a "BAD" design.
But frankly, were I buying today my first considerations would go to the Acura SH-AWD or the BMW X3/5. Or maybe the new Infiniti EX35 provided it isn't as UGLY as its brethren.
There are some traditional problems with the RX in that it uses a flawed, SERIOUSLY flawed, NipponDenso, Denso US, climate control design. Second issue is probably that it is FWD which can be extremely hazardous in adverse, slippery roadbed conditions. The F/AWD version of the RX300 series used a (mostly non-functional) VC, Viscous Clutch to "stiffen" the drive to the rear whereas the later models, RX330/350, simply rely on TC, Traction Control, braking and engine dethrottling for LSD virtualization. So insofar as safety is concerned the F/AWD version is probably just as hazardous in wintertime conditions as is the FWD.
It would help if you would describe your shifting problem with the '04 RX330. Starting in '04 Lexus used the DBW, e-throttle, system to ENFORCE a delay (some say 1-2 seconds) in acceleration, subsequent to a full lift-throttle event when/if the transaxle needed to downshift to support the level of acceleration required. There remain complaints of this delay/hesitation problem all the way into the '08 model year for some FWD Toyota/lexus vehicles.
I currently own a 2001 AWD RX300 with close to 70,000 miles and fully expect to see a transaxle failure prior to 100,000 miles as a result of the obvious overheating of the ATF.
Oh wow, its a terrible shift.. Its almost like a jerking... I apologize that I don't know all the correct terms, I just know that when I am driving, between 20-30mph, there is a jerking that happens, it seems like the RX can't seem to figure out what shift to go to. It is so bad that Lexus is buying back my car, after involving the national center for dispute settlement.
I test drove the BMW X5 and the drive is much harder than what I am looking for. The infiniti, horrible look, I can't stand to see myself in it..
Lexus assured me that this problem doesn't happen in any of the 350's and I have had some loaners for over a period of time an never felt it... But if I can hear from current owners of the 350, they could tell me if this is what they have to deal with too..
And the 2009 model is coming out... is it even worth it... goodness gracious... help please?