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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  Ten cars later, the best ever - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Michelle,Texas - September 25 - 5:00 pm

  I have had 10 cars, and I said the very next one I get would be a Lexus. After much independent study and comparisons. I finally got it. This car is absolutely awesome. Find an authorized mechanic shop that works on high end luxury cars and keep it maintained (as with any car). I see years of comfort and happiness, my daughter expects to get this car, when I upgrade. I never want to drive another car.

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  Lexus Update - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Bluto - September 20 - 5:13 am

  In the six years Ive owned the RX 300, I can say the extra cost over a Toyota was worth it. I had my first maintenance problem, a loose hose on the smog system due to bad roads kicking up debris. The RX has survived a run through a rock slide with only a blown tire. The other vehicles around me were totaled per the state police. The vehicle is easy to drive and predictable to keep you out of trouble. I would definitely recommend this year model providing maintenance was done per schedule. I will probably buy another Lexus except I moved to a town with only a Toyota dealer so I wiil probably go with Toyota. Thanks to all previous posters who convienced me to but a Lexus. Hope this helps.

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  RX300 input - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By BigEasyRX - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Best Luxury SUV for the money.

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  Excellent Used Car - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Lexus Jay - September 14 - 6:16 am

  I have owned the vehicle for about a month, and have been impressed with how smooth it handles, how peppy the engine is, and how comfortable the interior is. Many luxury / convenience features make this an excellent choice for a used vehicle.

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  2001 Lexus RX 300 - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Art - August 31 - 3:40 pm

  It is the most reliable car that Ive ever owned. It has handsome styling (which is why Lexus has not changed it much over the past 10 years) and gets great gas mileage. I get 20 in town and 25 on the highway. Its reliability is unsurpassed. It handles well and has all the space one would need for hobbies, kids, etc. We purchased it new and still enjoy driving it. We will buy another new one soon - but we are keeping the 2001. We will probably hand it down to our grandchildren.

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  Great Car - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By T J Monaghan - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Has the advantage of an SUV, all wheel drive, sitting up higher which improves visability,etc. without compromising ride and luxury. Slightly higher center of gravity does not effect stability.

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  Lexus RX300 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By abcarroll3@juno.com - May 18 - 10:00 am

  Great car, fun to drive, sound system has great sound although the sound quality is not same when listening to the radio. The gas milage is low considering the size of the car at 14 mpg around town, but the car itself more than makes up for the low mileage.

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  Love this car - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By drbalboa - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I sold my 99 RX300 thinking that a BMW X5 was the perfect car. While the performance was outstanding, it made me drive too fast. I missed the RX quiet, creature comforts, 12 CD changer and quality (tho I never had a problem with the X5 in the year I had it I bought a 2001 RX with a Navigation system (which I love and use), heated seats, & Xenons, I added X5 Michelins and chrome mags. Now it handles nearly as good as the BMW X5 did. And Instead of 16mpg I am getting 21 (on regular gas). In short, I love this car, and it was alot cheaper.

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  Lexus RX300 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Lexus - April 15 - 11:13 am

  I put a lot of miles on my car for work. The Lexus is comfortable for long trips and isnt as bad on gas as the larger sport utilities. The additional addons like sunroof, six disc changer, and heated leather seats just add to the enjoyment of driving this car.

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  Love my Lexus!!! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Norahs - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Always dependable. Very easy to get in and out, without having to CLIMB into, like most other SUVs. Maneuvers through the snow like a knife through butter!!!