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:

• 

  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.

• 

  RX 300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By doris - April 14 - 2:00 am

  This car never give me any probblem except when I need to make a U turn. I need to backup several times to completed the U turnb

• 

  Vibration Problems Continue - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By skeown - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Although there was always some engine vibration (with car idles at say red light) with the RX it has gotten worse and the dealer says "normal", then the extra words that even the new ones have more vibation than some cars (I also have an old Chrys. minivan, which has none>>>, and says that since the motor mounts are different in the RX, than the other Lexus cars, then it will never be "normal, just exceeding the norm...Not pleasant when you have to shift into neutral at a red light, to keep your teeth from chattering.

• 

  Nice Car, but could be better - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By H Baker - December 4 - 2:43 pm

  Over all the RX 300 is a very good car! It is easy to drive as the steering feels effortless. The design is good but needs some refinements such as more room. The ride is stiffer than the MDX. Fuel economy is fair at best.

• 

  Lexus RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Leanne - November 24 - 9:46 pm

  I bought my Lexus when it was 3 years old. I dont like to buy new cars because you lose so much money on them, I prefer certified used cars. The only problem Ive had with this car is that the air conditioning went out after Id had it a year but it was covered by the extended warranty. Otherwise its been a great car. I like the way it looks and it feels very solid on the road in all kinds of weather. One criticism of the inside design is there is no in-dash CD player but this is fixed with later models

• 

  Katies - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Katie L. Hannigan - October 6 - 3:26 pm

  Still smells like "NEW"! I want to sell this car for a 2005?? model. Poor turning radius & does not coast at all - you let off the gas & thats it. Uses more gas that way! Short seats being husband is 6 & long legged. Gives him sciatica!

• 

  01 RX300 - Super SUV - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By jbruce - April 18 - 5:20 am

  We bought a Vapor Blue, 01 RX 300 with Premium Package, HID Headlights, Roof Rack and auto dimming mirrors. Have only had it a few weeks, but it is one of smoothest and quietest riding vehicles weve had. Shifts very smooth, and the black leather interior is classy and comfortable. The gas mileage is not near as good as our older Honda Accord, but it has a larger engine and weighs more. This is a great car and was worth the $19,000 we paid. Both Toyota and Lexus hold their value about as good as any brand, so dont expect to find one "cheap". We looked at several RXs, but this one with 70,000 seemed to be about the best deal we could find. We cant wait for winter and some snow!

• 

  My Lexus review - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By e. chin - April 16 - 10:00 am

  The car is a very good riding car. We have taken it on several trips and it cruises at highway speeds very comfortably. All our friends that ride in the back seats says it is a very comfortable riding car. The car also serves well when I have to carry larger objects that a regular sedan cannot handle. Dealer service has been excellent (South Bay Lexus)

• 

  Happy With the RX - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Alexis Owner - February 24 - 10:00 am

  We purchased it for my wife with 30K Miles and have thouroughly enjoyed it. I recently had an exhaust manifold leak fixed and I had the rear bushings replaced a little while ago. No maj problems and we enjoy driving it in bad weather as the visibility through the winshield is great. Pohanka service dept and salesman Terry have been great.

• 

  honest review - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By zatez - January 31 - 2:00 am

  drove toyotas for years always thought Lexus was overpriced toyota until I bought my sivlersport what a difference!! The ride quality,comfort,handling,and the way the dealership treats you blows out toyota and I reguard toyota as on of the best products out there. It takes all the qualitys of the BMW/MERCEDES/and all other luxury makes and either beats them or does almost as good very nice ride worth the money believe it or not!!