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:
Showing 11 through 20 of 403.00-
Great SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
By SHOTSY - May 24 - 2:00 amIve had it for 1 1/2 years and have loved every minute of it. This is the 2nd SUV Ive owned and the other one didnt come close to this one. So far Ive I had great gas mileage for an SUV (22.5)-thats almost as good as my last CAR! It is worth the price.
-
The RX 300. - 2002 Lexus RX 300
By KD - March 4 - 10:00 amSteering 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.
-
The RX 300. - 2002 Lexus RX 300
By kd - March 4 - 10:00 amSteering 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.
-
The RX-300 is a beast! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By roverfanatic7 - December 30 - 10:14 pmHave 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.
-
Great vehicle but vibrates - 2000 Lexus RX 300
By musicman2721 - November 20 - 2:00 amGreat 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.
-
Great Vehicle for a Great Price! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By Satisfied - November 7 - 9:13 amThe 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.
-
RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By Jason - October 18 - 1:10 amI 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.
-
RX is Best Car Ive Owned - 2001 Lexus RX 300
By Tom in Omaha - August 10 - 10:00 amThe 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.
-
trans failure - 2002 Lexus RX 300
By Mike J - July 25 - 6:13 pmTrans 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.
-
Rattle, rattle, rattle - 2002 Lexus RX 300
By sanfoja - July 15 - 7:13 amLove 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).
