2004 Lexus RX330 Outfitted With Michelin(R) Energy Tires

Michelin supports Lexus RX330 Launch Events targeted at approximately 30,000 consumers

DETROIT, May 20 -- The 2004 Lexus RX330 is now available in North America after its first makeover since the highly successful luxury SUV debuted in 1998. Part of the makeover from the Lexus RX300 is an upgrade from 16-inch, to 17-inch wheels equipped with Michelin(R) Energy MXV4(R) S8 tires or optional 18-inch wheels and tires.

Michelin P225/65R17 Energy LX4 tires are standard on both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive Lexus RX330 models. Optional Michelin Energy P235/55R18 MXV4 S8 tires are also available for both models. The Michelin tires provide excellent dry and wet handling and are designed for the luxury ride that Lexus owners expect.

"This is a great luxury SUV and the Michelin Energy tires are specially tuned to provide the quietest, most comfortable ride possible for the RX330," said Tom Chubb, vice president of marketing, Michelin Automotive Industry Division. "The Michelin tires work in concert with the Lexus RX330's available air suspension system to provide excellent tire grip while reducing body sway."

From mid-March through early June, Lexus is holding ride-and-drive events in 12 major markets, exposing approximately 9,000 Lexus dealership associates and approximately 30,000 consumers to the new Lexus RX330. Michelin is supporting the Lexus initiative by providing tires, displays and product information for each event.

In addition to the Lexus RX330, Michelin(R) tires can be found on several other popular Lexus vehicles including the ES300, GS430, GS400, IS300, GX470 and the LX470.

Michelin manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, maps and atlases covering Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelin.com ) employs 24,640 people and operates 22 plants in 18 locations.