2004 Lexus RX 330 Top Auction Item at 21st Annual American Heart Ball

CHICAGO, April 2 -- Lexus aficionados have a treat in store for them at 6 p.m. April 12 at the 2003 American Heart Ball in the Grand Ballroom of Chicago's Navy Pier.

Lexus has donated an all-new 2004 RX 330 for the event's live auction. On sale just weeks ago, the all-new RX 330 offers luxury amenities and technology not available in other vehicles in its class.

Larger than the RX 300 model it replaces, the new RX 330 introduces an elegant and sleek new design, as well as significant enhancements to luxury content, performance and advanced safety features. Lexus designed the RX 330 to provide the quietest and smoothest ride quality of any entry-level luxury SUV. The RX delivers all-weather all-wheel drive and fun-to-drive performance with its 3.3 liter V6 engine.

The RX 330 to be auctioned has 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels; the Lexus navigation system with rear backup camera; Mark Levinson audio system; heated front seats and rain sensing windshield wipers; Adaptive Front Lighting System with swiveling headlamps to illuminate the driver's path on curves; reclining second row seats; adjustable-height air suspension; adaptive laser cruise control; power rear liftgate; moonroof and numerous other features.

"Lexus is pleased to lead the way for the American Heart Association's premier fund-raising event," said Mark Del Rosso, general manager of the Lexus Central Area in Naperville, Ill. "The new RX 330 has just arrived at Lexus dealerships, so for most attending this event, it will be their first opportunity to see this great new vehicle in person. It's a win-win-win situation for all involved."

With its elegant surroundings, gourmet heart-healthy dining, great music and outstanding auction items, the Heart Ball has become a prominent black-tie gala in Chicago. Contributions raised at the Heart Ball are used to further the American Heart Association's mission of fighting heart disease and stroke through continued funding of biomedical research and ongoing education programs. This year's Heart Ball has the theme "American Heart Ball" and will feature 1940s, USO and World War II decorations with swing music and entertainment for the partygoers. Stanley Paul and the Stanley Paul Orchestra will be playing a gamut of tunes from every era, but focusing on the 1940s, including special arrangements of Cole Porter tunes.

For more information on the event, contact the American Heart Association at 312-346-4675 or log on to www.americanheart.org .