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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  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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  Sludge engine car- do not own - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By bob305 - November 26 - 4:13 am

  Forget what you think about Lexus and Toyotas quality, the 3.0 L engine in this vehicle has a KNOWN defect that Toyota/Lexus has been ducking for years. My car blew an engine despite proper oil changes and care. Problems generally occurs after 100,000 miles after warranty. Toyota settled a class action lawsuit on this and essentially paid lawyers millions so they can duck the problem. Google "Sludge Engine" but be aware you have a time bomb on your hands.

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  Hasnt Lived Up To The Lexus Reputation - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Vivvy - August 2 - 2:00 am

  Legendary Lexus quality--the total ownership experience--has turned out to be more legend than reality in this case. The dealerships service dept has been less than stellar, far surpassed by the local Accura dealership--and even the local Honda dealer. Whats wrong with the car? Lots of little things, surprisingly too many to write down. An overall disappointment.

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  Mobile money pit - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Foggy - October 11 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrible car. I bought a Lexus for the reliability, but spent a fortune on repairs. Air Compressor, Transmission, would be the 2 biggies. Check the lexus owner website about the complaints on this model. I was lucky that the tranny went out at 145,000. My Compressor went out at 59k. Transfer case died at 185k.

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  how many 02 sensors can one car need replacing - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By chrissylynn53 - April 24 - 7:30 am

  I have had the alternator go out. and countless sensors it goes in the shop about 1 time a year for at least 500 in repairs. I will never buy a lexus again biggest piece of crap. I will buy a ford for my next car. I broke down 100 miles from home and had to hitch hike. scary. I [non-permissible content removed] hate this car

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  Shame on you Toyota (Lexus) - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Steve - October 5 - 11:06 am

  I purchased my Lexus RX300 when it was 1 year old and I knew the previous owner (engineer very good at maintaining). I have been pretty good abut keeping up with oil changes etc., and I have spent more money on this car than any car Ive owned previously (Toyota or otherwise). First it was engine sludge and last month it was a new transmission. I now again have an emerging engine sludge problem and Lexus is again claiming no responsibility. I buy new and drive my cars forever, but my Lexus at 98,000 miles is the worst purchase Ive ever made. I will not be buying a Toyota ever again.

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  Any older Lexus may be tempting, but dont do it.. - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Kevin - May 31 - 8:40 am

  Bought my 1999 RX300 for peanuts and thought it was a killer deal. Low miles, dealer serviced. But save yourself the headache and just dont do it. Yes these are technically "Toyotas", but the newest RX300s are now over 14 years old. They are a PITA to work on. Mine just went into limp mode due to bad knock sensors, and I just spent $685 for that. Parts were only $185, but it took ten hours of labor to change them. Drove it home, and when I parked it, it started idling at 2k rpm. Back to the shop it went! Ive now been without my Lexus for two weeks. Fuel economy on my AWD model is terrible and it has very little power. Its comfortable and safe, but expect to spend ALOT on repairs.

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  My last Toyota purchase - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By c krempley - August 8 - 7:00 am

  This car did not live up to my expectations. After owning many Toyota products, a Corrolla was my first car, I will no longer be purchasing their product. The hype that this car would run for 200 to 300 thousand miles is just hype. My transmission gave out on a major highway at 10:00 PM in a construction zone 30 miles from ANY gas station or other help. Two years ago the air conditioning unit needed replacement and now there are electrical problems. I have never had so many problems with a car.

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  Worst car Ive ever owned - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Tom Michalek - December 19 - 4:20 am

  The Lexus brand is by far the greatest rip off in American history. The transmission failed at 100K, and the car has more sensors than any car I know. We have spent over $7,00o in repair fees on this car. I can not believe the reputation gets in the media. They give the Japanese car companies a bad name. Beware.

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  rx 300 lexus - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By kosudo - June 6 - 5:31 am

  i had transmission probrum 53,000 miles replaced new one after 50,000miles later transmission fell again in right middle of in death valley ca. it was so bad we had to wait 3 hours to toeing truck to arrive.i called lexus on thursday 4-16-20013 they told me get back to me on tuesday on 4-23-20013 still no answer. they told me to wait one more day. i am so angry about whole thing taking such long time to get back to me. i have rental car, have to return.