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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  Great vehicle but vibrates - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By musicman2721 - November 20 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle, particularly for a SUV and higher off the road. Good for higher water in Houston roads. Engine vibrates though when car sits idle at redlights. Only feels normal when shifting into neutral while at light. Rear door has quality problems with fabric covered plastic.

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  Transmission went at 78000 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By inetd - November 11 - 9:16 pm

  Transmission went at 78000. Warranty is 70k/7yrs, and Lexus sticks to those numbers. This is a low-end basic Toyota transmission that Lexus loaded up with weight and gadgets. We know lots of people that have had 2x transmissions by 100k miles, some with 3x transmissions. Its the cars weak point for sure. Engine has had class action lawsuit for sludge/failure. Dealers still deny theres a problem - theyre told to be quiet about it. Transmission class action is next. 2WD reliability is poor, 4WD reliability is abysmal

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  RX300AWD - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Bundle - November 9 - 9:13 am

  Great vehicle for running about. Turning circle too wide. Fuel mileage is rather low for a rather weak V6. Great workmanship and detail. For tall people, inside can be cramped.

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  Great Vehicle for a Great Price! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Satisfied - November 7 - 9:13 am

  The vehicle was purchased in 2003 with 89k miles. It now has 150k miles and still runs like a champ. Keeping the regular maintenance, I expect another 150k miles. Hope to give the car to my one year old daughter when shes of age. Its extremely reliable in going up and down Stevens and Snoqualmie Passes in Washington. The AWD allows for great traction even in the most extreme cases, superb handling in inclement weather. The car has needed a new starter, battery, and minor. Belts and plugs were changed at suggested intervals. No major repairs or maintenance. I would recommend maintaining the car yourself, the dealership is just too expensive and not necessary.

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  2001 Lexus RX300 - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By karamzin - November 5 - 9:53 am

  I bought my 2001 Lexus RX300 almost two years ago with 89K, now it has 98K and I love this car. Its a laxuary car with a lot of options. Also, mine has its factory navigation system, so I just changed the disc to 2011 and Im happy. All I have to say its a perfect family car especially in a winter time when it snows.

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  Great Vehicle for Every One - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By George - October 25 - 8:20 am

  I bought it new in 2002 for my wife and shes loved it more than any other vehicle. Its easy to drive, very quiet, and comfortable to ride in; even long drives. Lexus did a great job on the fit and finish - it still looks almost new. Weve owned it for 7 years and it still has the original battery and wipers on it. Weve changed the tires only once. I would recommend it to anyone; except families of five or more - a bit small.

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  Everything is excellent - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By yc - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Everything inside and out is excellent, except only V6 is available.

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  RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Jason - October 18 - 1:10 am

  I bought this car less than 2 months ago and it seems to be very reliable, however, the gas mileage is terrible. 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. With fuel prices as high as they are, we are considering selling it. It is also very expensive to fix or get serviced. I am one that likes to work on my own cars, but with the Lexus the majority of the parts you have to buy at the dealer at inflated prices. I would think long and hard about buying this car unless you can afford the gas and services.

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  We love this SUV!!! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By cltang - October 7 - 2:00 am

  We got this 2WD SUV with $35,500 OTD. I love the V6 engine and transmission, which is the same as my other car and van (Camry and Sienna). The interior is super. The reason we bought it because of our 10th anniversary. It worths to keep for another decade!

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  Fairly easy to work on - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By HomeMechanic - October 3 - 8:36 pm

  Purchased from a private owner with 135k, now 155k. RX3s can have some small known issues that can be fixed by a competent DIYer. Exhaust leak (have a friend with a welder?), O2 sensors (buy a $5 socket), clean the MAF (simple), spark plugs (a chore but not impossible), suspension noise (disassembling a strut is more than most ppl want to do on their own). Suggest changing the driveline fluids for insurance against trans issues. Consistent 19mpg which I think is fair- if you get less, have it checked out, or turn off power mode! All in all, I think its a vehicle you can become familiar with & keep around for a long time. Its versatile, but not too big or obnoxious. My trusty daily driver.