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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  Second Time Around - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By CTraylor - January 20 - 10:00 am

  The RX is my second Lexus. I owned an ES before. The RX interior is awsome, comfortable, well appointed and visually pleasing. Honestly, the exterior grows on you. In terms of performance, the turning radius really is bad and fuel economy dissapoints. But what I like least is the choppy acceleration. Lots of lag and downshifting at full acceleration. All in all though, a very nice compromise for someone who needs veratility.

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  Lexus RX 300 ,1999 RX 300 8 YEAR REVIEW - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By PowerhousePaluch - November 18 - 6:26 pm

  I purchased this RX 300 brand new, this was my first Japanese built vehicle, having owned, VWs, Volvos, Audis and BMWs and one Chev Corsica. Just as we were driving off the lot. I remember the salesperson saying "you will not have any problems with this car for the next 7 years" I thought, ok Buddy, I already bought and paid you stop the sales pitch. He was right, for the next 7 years I only had to do the scheduled maintenance and put gas in it. I am now going to trade it in. It is now 9 years old and has 146,000 km, but still looks good. I will buy another Lexus. Problems that I had with my 1999 RX 300, you ask? See suggested improvements.

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  Luxury @ a reasonable price. - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Mary R. - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought used. Beautiful! Smooth, quiet ride and fuel economy. Power when you need it but enjoyable just cruising.

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  Lexus luxury - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By TAR - October 5 - 8:33 pm

  Very comfortable, smooth and quiet ride but very poor turning radius. I love driving this car--it feels like I have arrived!

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  My Rx Rocks - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Jeff - October 5 - 3:53 pm

  Ok I got a 99 2 months ago. Its got 130,000 miles. Love it. Great power. Lots of options. Seat is worn from last owner pretty bad, drives great. Turning radius is fine. Gas could be better but oh well my last car was a Saturn. I had to tint the front windows to match the rest of the car and I dropped a couple of subwoofers in to juice up the radio. The deck was unchangable which kinda stinks. Its got a stock Nakamichi stereo tho. I bet in 99 this was the hottest car out.

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  Going for my 2nd RX300 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By lexus lover - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle. No problems in 3 years. Lexus service is outstanding. Interior quality high.

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  Overall Good Car - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By kkwok - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Nice car with small problems. Driver side mirror crack first winter (heated mirror too hot ??). Driver side rear door wont shut after car wash in cold winter day. Dealer tried to fix a few times but failed. I just avoid washing the car in cold winter day, unless parked inside garage. Fuel guage did not go up after fill-up. 2 computer chips replaced under warrenty.

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  Just about the best! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By HansMom - June 9 - 10:36 pm

  We bought this car used and have been extremely pleased. It is the perfect size, perfect height for getting in and out of, and handles beautifully in winter driving. We have had very few maintenance issues, though have put a little money into repairs. Our complaints: no shoulder strap for middle rear position, front seats dont adjust quite enough so that the seat is too flat for us, sometimes hesitant at fast accelerations... but one learns to drive it as is. Great car for nearly anyone, though you do find yourself at the gas pump fairly often! I would prefer this car as is over most newer makes and models. Visibility is better than with the newer RX 330.

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  Drives like a car... - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By LexisOwner - April 25 - 2:10 am

  Excellent quality and drivability. 5 years old and still looks current. Bought the car new and loved it. Over the years, the small annoyances start to wear on you, like having to stop for gas every 300 miles and having to back up when making u-turns and when parking due to large turning radius.

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  Jury still out - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By dray24 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased a certified 2000 model and I am not surr if i am sold yet. The turning radius is horrible and the fuel economy isnt that great either. The ride is smooth, but lacks in pep. The moonroof shade is the only problem i have with the interior because it is made out of shoddy materials and is too light, will move forward with sudden braking. The should haev added a compass as part of the info screen.