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 RX 300. - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By kd - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Steering SUCKS, Car has the ever so FAMOUS Glove box rattle, and some other noises that just arent worthy of the 44K price tag (out the door.)The goodyear Intergerity Tires Look LIKE and are CRAPPY. The car rides very nice, is pretty quite, but has developed a front end Squeak that seemingly cannot be fixed @ 22K miles. It has been a good car, but the V6 LACKS the power that can be purchased elsewhere for the +40K we paid. IE, INFINITY, JEEP, Mercury! We like the car but it is ?able @ 44K.

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  Fantastic Car - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Not Acura - February 25 - 10:00 am

  The quality, the ride, and the salesmanship of the this Lexus became the only reason why I purchase this vehicle. Owning this vehicle for less than 1 month, the enjoyment that I got from it is second to none. Perfect seat support, quiet and smooth ride, silky smooth engine (though it is only a 3.0L), center information panel (either you love it or you hate it), and the second to none Lexus service and salesman attitude. If I decide to buy another car, Lexus will be my first choice.

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  I LOVE IT - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By LAD - February 13 - 2:00 am

  Newly retired, but wanting a sporty SUV, I drove ALL of the brands. I didnt think I could afford this, but the dealer was great. This is the nicest, most comfortable car Ive ever owned. I would have bought the Toyota, but the salespeople were not helpful with anything. My husband and I are so happy that we purchased this car. What a pleasure to drive.

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  I LOVE my Lexus! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By bradley_k_335 - February 12 - 10:40 am

  I have had the car for about four years and it has never let me down. With countless trips over Snoqualmie pass to our lake house, it drives great in the snow with the all-wheel-drive system. It is a very inspiring vehicle to drive. I have loved it for as long as I have owned it.

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  RX 300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Snafu - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Great car. Decent fuel milage. Power is adequate. Very usable and comfortable.

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  2nd Owner, Coach Pkg, ....Nice SUV! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By acarnutguy - December 31 - 5:06 am

  Purchased with 37k miles in June 2006. Nice, well built SUV with good room for 2 or 3, tight with 4 when traveling. Solid drive, wanders a bit on the highway at speeds. Very good cruiser at 75-80 mph. City gas mileage is 17-19 and highway at 75 is 21ish... should be better. Coach leather edition is a nice bonus! Lexus does a great job with fit, finish and wood trim.

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  The RX-300 is a beast! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By roverfanatic7 - December 30 - 10:14 pm

  Have the 1999 Lexus RX-300 AWD with 260,000 miles running strong. The reliability and safety are ahead of its time! Maintenance is cheaper than any other luxury brand. The car took a massive hit from an escalade, but held up strong and protected us. Dont be fooled, the RX is a good 4 X 4. Held up through the tough winters in NC! Comfortable and will continue to buy Lexus/Toyota. Wouldnt be surprised if this car made it to 400,000 miles. Mechanic expects it to at least drive for a 100,000 more.

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  Worth the money - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By CCW - December 28 - 2:40 am

  I bought this because of Lexus reputation and have not been disappointed. Still drives like a new car, great handling for a SUV, and gas mileage tolerable even with todays gas prices! This car has everything, just wish it had power rear hatch. Definitely considering hybrid version for next Lexus.

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  Nice machine with some funny quirks - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Larry Pope - December 22 - 10:00 am

  We started looking at ML320s but liked the styling and ride of the RX better. The RX is built on a Camry frame while the ML is a truck and it feels like it. Besides, an MB built in Alabama? Please. I only have one complaint with this car. The brakes sound like a locomotive trying to stop. I started complaining about them at 10,000 miles. The dealership "adjusted" them and supposedly changes some parts. Finally at 36,000 miles, they put on a kit that quieted them down. The new kit only has a few hundred miles on it and so far so good. A $40,000 car shouldnt have that kind of flaw. (In their defense, all the brake work was done under warranty.)

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By ArizonaDriver - December 3 - 2:00 am

  This SUV/car is very fun to drive. It feels like a car yet gives you the advantages of an SUV. I have always felt that Lexus is overpriced. After owning one for almost a year, I understand why people are willing to pay a premium for these vehicles.