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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  Great Vehicle -- Needs some Updating - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Mike - Kent. WA - July 9 - 2:00 am

  I love the vehicle though it lacks a few things that its competitors seems to have. I chose it over the MDX mainly because of the lack of color choices in the Acura product -- Lexus has the best exterior color combos -- hands-down. I really love the two-tone exterior that is, unfortunately, going away in the 2004s. Great vehicle and fun to drive.

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  The best of the Best - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Jakehoo - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Switched from an Avalon to the RX300. Very pleased with this decision.

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  Have owned mine since it was new - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By fyrcat - June 17 - 4:57 am

  I had owned my 1999 rx 300 since it was new. I currently have 78000 miles on it. No problems until I hit 65000 miles and my transmission went out. My dealer here in the SF bay area wanted 6500.00, so I shopped around and found an independent tranny shop who did it for 3500.00. Other than that, I love this car! I have never held on to a car for more than 6 years, but I still adore my Lexus. I just repaired the leather on the drivers side that ripped from 13 years of in and out. Otherwise both the interior and the exterior look great. I am hoping to keep her for 2 more years, and when ready to replace her, I would buy another Lexus in a heartbeat.

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  EXCELLENT SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By coolmama - May 27 - 2:00 am

  I looked for 3 months trying to decide what SUV I wanted. Coming from a mid- sized sedan, I wanted an SUV that wasnt too big and handled well. I looked and drove everything from a Kia to a Lexus. I can honestly say this is the best SUV out there. It is worth the extra money.

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  Bad Transmission - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Liz - May 19 - 3:06 am

  I just got in to this 2000 Rx 300 and was great it had 113k now over 1 month of driving have 115K and the transmission is gone, I love the suv but a lots of friend said that after 100k trans goes bad , I hope some one told me that before I got in to this pay in cash over $9,000 and now new trans. is a very bad luck or they have this problem and no one report this? please let the consumer to know about this before we keep putting our money on trash.

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  Nearly Perfect - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By stellab - May 3 - 10:00 am

  Overall, this vehicle is a dream come true and VERY worth the money. The handling is superior. Luxurious interior and comfortable ride. Rear seating is roomy. Front window is large so vision is unobstructed. Wipers are too slow. The audio controls leave a lot to be desired. Heater is slow to heat up, but the heated seated make up for it. Too much road noise. I had a Grand Cherokee Ltd V8 but the Lexus mpg is barely better with a V6. Could use a V8 option, but the V6 is okay. The fit and finish is superior. Wonderful experience at dealership.

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  1999 Lexus RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By R Giles - April 9 - 10:00 am

  This is a luxurious car that still has the size and safety of an SUV. The car has been very reliable and almost defect free. Lexus did do warrenty repair work on the fuel intake system and the exhaust manifold. I would definitely buy another one.

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  this is my 2nd RX300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By chiappt - April 9 - 10:00 am

  This is the car to own. Nothing bad to say about this truck.

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  Love my RX - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Barbielou - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Have now put on 25K miles on my Lexus RX 300....still couldnt be happier after three years driving. Cars were just transportation before I got this now I have a whole new outlook on getting around. Also, everyone who rides in in loves it as much as I do. No repairs yet worth mentioning.

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  Love My Car! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By dgrant1518 - March 6 - 12:00 am

  I love this car! I purchased it with 38,000 miles. I am now at 256,000 with no major problems at all. I have only had a couple sensors and the alternator replaced.