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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  DONT DO IT...! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By BillYo - June 17 - 2:00 am

  WITH A NAMEPLATE LIKE LEXUS...YOU WOULDNT THINK YOU WOULD HAVE THE PROBLEMS I HAVE EXPERIENCED....EVERYTHING FROM BEING STRANDED OUT OF TOWN WITH A BLOWN TRANSMISSION...TOO FEW LIGHTS..AND CHRONIC FUSE BLOWING...INTERIOR LIGHTS ..SECURITY ALARM...THE LIST GOES ON.... NEVER EVER AGAIN...BUT THE SERVICE WAS GREAT AND VERY APOLOGETIC....SORRY BUT THE STING OF BEING STRANDED ON YOUR VACATION LONG OUTLIVES THE FINE SERVICE.

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  Horrible engines, do not buy! - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By winburnj - April 5 - 6:40 am

  All I can say is do your homework! Just after I rolled over 100,00 miles my engine threw a rod and now I am getting another engine put in. I ran a full synthetic oil for 22000 miles and did not think that Lexus would have problems like this with this mileage. All I can say is before you buy do your research on Lexus oil gel/sludge.

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  Will not buy another RX - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By DROBB - November 14 - 3:46 pm

  We bought our RX used, with very low mileage. After having owned 5 trouble free Toyotas, we were shocked when the transmission of our well maintained RX failed at 80K miles. It was an expensive and very time consuming repair, as the parts were very hard to locate. We still are not happy with how the transmission hunts for a gear at lower speeds. Cargo space is terrible, interior is a bit cramped and not all that comfortable and the center console and cup holders are poorly designed and flimsy.Turning radius is bad and acceleration could be a lot better. No more RXs for us. EVER!

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  2000 Lexus RX300 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By scott R - June 22 - 5:40 am

  Common problem with this model is transmission failure at 90k - 130k. Well, mine failed at 144,000k. This is a low end Lexus and would not recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  google engine sludge rx300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Paul W Miller - March 4 - 5:28 pm

  Bought as fifth owner with 136K miles. Perhaps a risky move but the engine crapped out on the first 300 trip. After looking at the horror stories Id never consider a RX300 again unless the previous owner maintenance could be verified beyond a shadow of a doubt, too risky.

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  alot of trouble - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By a/l - July 22 - 2:00 am

  are wheels of our car needed to be fixed almost right away. we needed them a again. when the engine on and the car is stoped it hurts our ears. although it is a safe car. the dealer dave mungenast lexus of st. louis is a rip off so dont buy there.

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  Bad Battery - AGAIN!!! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By DissappointedInFL - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Nuerous problems with battery and electrical system. Spent several days in dealers shop on numerous occaisons.