Overview & Reviews

Lexus knows what its customers like and seldom slips up when it introduces a new model. This solid competence was exemplified by the company's RX 300 luxury midsize SUV. As one of the first entries in the crossover luxury SUV segment, the RX provided a high seating position, available all-wheel drive and generous cargo capacity but without the typical truck-based SUV side effects of poor fuel economy and a stiff ride.

With its handsomely trimmed cabin, velvet-smooth powertrain and polished overall demeanor, the Lexus RX 300 had a lot going for it, especially for folks who prized a serene driving experience over a more sporting one. It quickly became a hit and during its run it was often not only Lexus' best-selling model, but also the top-selling luxury SUV in the United States as well.

The Lexus RX series continues to be a very popular choice, with the original 300 being succeeded by the RX 330 and RX 350. As a choice for a used luxury crossover, the RX 300 shines, especially when the model's stellar records for build quality and reliability are factored in.

Most Recent Lexus RX 300

The five-passenger RX 300 was essentially a single-generation model that ran from 1999-2003. Its successors, the RX 330 and RX 350 sported revamped styling and larger V6s as indicated by the numerical part of their names.

Available with front-wheel drive or traction-enhancing all-wheel drive, the Lexus RX 300 came in one trim and was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 (220 horsepower and 222 pound-feet of torque) paired to a four-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity, at 3,500 pounds, was on the light side.

Luxury features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, automatic climate control, full power accessories (including front seats and "auto-down" windows in all doors) and a cassette player came standard on the RX 300. Standard safety features included antilock brakes and front-seat side airbags.

For 2001, the Lexus RX 300 received a midcycle refresh that brought refreshed styling and newly standard safety features including stability control (dubbed "VSC") and brake assist. A handful of new options debuted as well, including a DVD-based navigation system, HID headlights, chrome wheels and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. Choosing not to mess with success, Lexus made no significant changes to the RX 300 for its final two years.

In our reviews of the Lexus RX 300, we appreciated the vehicle's low step-in height, comfortable seats and excellent outward visibility. Performance was respectable for a 2-ton vehicle with a 0-60-mph sprint of 8.8 seconds, while the transmission furnished smooth gearchanges, holding a gear when needed and stepping down promptly.

Long road trips had the RX 300 in its element, as it gobbled up large amounts of interstate effortlessly while providing occupants with a hushed, supple ride. Additionally, the backseat's ability to slide fore and aft nearly 5 inches allowed parents to more easily reach their children in car seats. In terms of handling, the RX 300 felt planted and precise, though the soft suspension allowed a fair bit of body roll when pressed in turns.

Gripes centered around so-so mileage (around 17 or so mpg) and a gimmicky center stack screen that, considering it displayed only temperature and trip information, didn't really need to be so large.

User Reviews:

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  The review - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By i am steve - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Good car but small tires and doesnt handle as well as some others

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  beautiful design - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Steve_E - March 2 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the car used with low mileage, Lexus fixed most of little problems related to its being previously leased. I hope Lexus does not change the wonderful aerodynamic design in favor of current trendy boxy industrial look (no fake aluminum trim!) The front seats cushion can be a bit longer to accomodate tall folks, a solid center armrest/console would be a good replacement for the flip-down armrests. Acceleration is great for an SUV. Its not a "real" off-roader, so stay on paved roads.

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  Great Crossover SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By MrElussive - February 24 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is extremely easy to drive. The ride is extremely smooth, and this car is just loaded with luxury. The AWD system is excellent in the snow and the car has a really solid feel overall.

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  My opinion - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By rrrppp - January 29 - 2:00 am

  MY wife and I purchased the RX300 with the Premium Plus Package after viewing the BMW X5. The X5 had nothing on the Lexus aside from the BMW name. We are very happy with the RX300.

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  whatacar - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By stevel - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable to be in and to drive. The engine however needs a little more pep--but this car matches a lot of suvs costing $10,000 more

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  Super quiet and comfortable - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By HBsteve - January 4 - 12:20 am

  Ive been really happy with my AWD RX300. Amazingly quiet inside, I still cant believe how little road and traffic noise you hear. Seats are comfortable and leather is very soft. Sound system is great. Just got the car issue of a certain consumer magazine. They score every vehicle on reliability, satisfaction and depreciation. The RX300 is the only vehicle with top marks in all three. I know why, this is a great vehicle.

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  Transmission break down. - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By saimatha - December 28 - 12:23 pm

  I have 115000 miles. The transmission had failed on the freeway. Cost to have it fixed with a remanufactured transmission from same dealer is $3400. Surprized to find this failure at 115000 miles. did not have this problem with US cars even with mileage more than 150000. Are we blind sighted to the quality of Lexus? This dos not complain about the failing door locks and engine light on etc.

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  Perfect SUV. Well, Almost... - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By BryanD - December 23 - 5:33 am

  I have owned this truck for almost a year now, long enough to know its good and bad points. Overall a great SUV with quite capable handling and performance. A few quirks mentioned below.

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  great car - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By montrose - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Own an LX470 as well. This car is a great value considering fit/finish and Lexus reliability and build quality.

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  A RX 300 Yippy Skippy! - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Mr. Hank - December 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought this Lexus used with 3,200 miles. Why? Mainly due to the resale value - it beats the heck out of a Hyundai Sante Fe!! Its not bad! Quality leather seats, solid ride, luxury appointed trim. After all - its a LEXUS!