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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  Theres NO better ride on the road - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Flutertuter - September 2 - 10:00 am

  This car is an absolute joy to own. Have driven many different comparable cars and this one is 1st class in its handling, braking and sound systems. The roominess of the interior is also a big plus. It gets extremely good gas mileage and is as much a pleasure to me after 15 months as the day I drove it off the lot!!!!!

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  RX is Best Car Ive Owned - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Tom in Omaha - August 10 - 10:00 am

  The 2001 RX is the first Lexus we have owned and it is the best car we have owned. Rides great, comfortable for four adults (dont bring a lot of luggage) and performance is very acceptable (remember this is an SUV). One of the nice benefits of an Lexus is the service provided by the dealership, which is fantastic. Last year we went skiing in Colorado and the RX went up I-70 without any problems at all ... more power than I had predicted.

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  Who says 70K miles is a lot? - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Dick Killoran - August 10 - 10:00 am

  I couldnt afford a new one, so I bought a used 2002 RX300 with 70,000 miles. It handles better and is more quiet than a new Caravan which was my second choice. To help make my purchase decision I test drove a brand new RX330. I found the new car to be only a little quieter and a little more peppy. I hope to get 200,000 miles out of it. It is the nicest vehicle I have ever owned!

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  trans failure - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Mike J - July 25 - 6:13 pm

  Trans failed at 87000mi.(out of warranty) Had dealer replace trans ocos $4000. Maintenance schedule does not suggest or state to "service trans" by replacing trans oil/filter. Just states to check fluid level. Will not purchase Lexus or Toyota againg.

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  Lexus saved our lives!! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By lexusluver - July 17 - 10:15 pm

  Owned a 1999 Lexus Rx 300 for five years. Three weeks ago my husband and I was hit from behind by a full sized pick up while sitting at a stop light,then pushed into another SUV in front of us. The police report said that the driver of the pick up never even noticed us and never slowed down and hit us doing 45mph. Although we received back/neck injuries, we feel that because we were driving our Lexus, it saved our lives. A police officer and a fireman both called our Lexus a "little tank" and told me that we were lucky to be driving it. we were told it could have more serious. We are definitely purchasing another Lexus as soon as we settle with insurance co. Miss our Lexy!

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  Rattle, rattle, rattle - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By sanfoja - July 15 - 7:13 am

  Love the RX300 EXCEPT for the rattles, have been plagued with these since about 1500 miles. Dealer has tried and tried but cannot fix the rattles, more just appear. Gonna trade this one in which is a shame because, otherwise, it is a great little ON-road SUV (also own a GMC Yukon 4Dr, 4WD for serious duty). The fuel mileage is a bit disappointing too, but it is AWD so I wont say it is awful (18 city 19-20 highway).

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  Great Vehicle -- Needs some Updating - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Mike - Kent. WA - July 9 - 2:00 am

  I love the vehicle though it lacks a few things that its competitors seems to have. I chose it over the MDX mainly because of the lack of color choices in the Acura product -- Lexus has the best exterior color combos -- hands-down. I really love the two-tone exterior that is, unfortunately, going away in the 2004s. Great vehicle and fun to drive.

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  99 Lexus RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Lyle D. Mitchell - July 8 - 1:16 am

  2nd owner of this 1999 RX300. Everything was fine until the auto trans went out at 77,800 miles with no warning. Lexus remanufact trans costs $5000. This failure was very disappointing.

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  The best of the Best - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Jakehoo - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Switched from an Avalon to the RX300. Very pleased with this decision.

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  Have owned mine since it was new - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By fyrcat - June 17 - 4:57 am

  I had owned my 1999 rx 300 since it was new. I currently have 78000 miles on it. No problems until I hit 65000 miles and my transmission went out. My dealer here in the SF bay area wanted 6500.00, so I shopped around and found an independent tranny shop who did it for 3500.00. Other than that, I love this car! I have never held on to a car for more than 6 years, but I still adore my Lexus. I just repaired the leather on the drivers side that ripped from 13 years of in and out. Otherwise both the interior and the exterior look great. I am hoping to keep her for 2 more years, and when ready to replace her, I would buy another Lexus in a heartbeat.