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:

• 

  Died at 82,000 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By S. Miller - February 14 - 6:40 pm

  Bought the RX 300 certified pre-owned with 42,000 miles. Loved the vehicle until it died at 82,000 miles. Temp gauge showed cold, but engine overheated and locked up on I-80 in Gary, IN. It was 2 weeks past the warranty. After a $200 tow charge, we were told the engine needed replaced for $10,500. Lexus gave us the engine, but it still cost $3,000 in labor. Lexus offered no explanation as to cause, and declined further help. The dealership was wonderful, however. We have also had chronic problems with dash lights. We thought Lexus was bulletproof. We wont buy another one.

• 

  Dont Keep for Long - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Nikki - January 16 - 11:36 am

  The car is good as long as you get rid of it after the 5th year. I had to purchase a new transmission during the 6th year and 2 new cylinders.

• 

  ecs comments - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By chin - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The passanger seat needs a 6 way adjustment. The front part of the seat is too low which allows the passanger to keep sliding off the seat which is not comfortable. The turning circle is also too large. The smell of the leather is not too pleasing at times.

• 

  rx300 30,000 mile service - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By dky - November 18 - 11:43 am

  30,000 service overpriced.ca car fun to drive

• 

  If you want a plush ride... - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By LexusRX300 owner - October 24 - 10:00 am

  ?ä a dependable safe family vehicle for Minnesota. We found it. The RX300 (after test driving many comparable vehicles in the same price range) has an extremely quiet and plush ride. The refinements in the cabin such as the audio system, the NAV system, and even the cup holders were well thought of and top quality. Our RX has 62000 miles, 36000 when we purchased it and we have not had any mechanical problems or electrical concerns to date. We would definitely buy this vehicle again.

• 

  Fun Utility - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By DESUM - September 3 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a joy to drive compared to the other SUVs I have owned. I drive 15-20K a year in all types of weather and I have complete control in all conditions without having to "shift" into 4-wheel drive.

• 

  Our 2nd Lexus Purchase Was an RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Candace - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I like the fact that when I am driving this vehicle, it doesnt feel like Im driving a truck. Its versatile, looks good, and has the reputation that comes with a Lexus vehicle.

• 

  2000 rx300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By hn - August 11 - 2:00 am

  great vehicle coming off lease in 3 months. our 2nd lexus. will probably aquire the rx330.

• 

  Just loving the car - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By houstonian - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Purchased an extended warranty too but never used. Just did a valve cover gasket change. But over all just love the car. Had no major problems. Has about 90k miles. If you keep the car maintain it will help a lot

• 

  1999 Lexus RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By EAC - February 5 - 3:36 am

  Great SUV. No Major problems besides an oxygen sensor needing replacement. Acceleration is not great and fuel economy is not great either. Fuel consumption got worse when I bought new tires. Only dislike is that servicing is expensive and dealership cuts no breaks even for long time customer like me.