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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Best vehicle we ever owned!!!! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
By dak west - November 8 - 2:00 amWe have almost 40k miles and have never had to bring it in for any warranty work. Regular maintenance only but stopped visiting selling dealer after they tried to oversell un-needed maintenance items. Vehicle runs great, replaced tires at 30k. This vehicle was everthing we expected and more.
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The Best - 2003 Lexus RX 300
By Pete Violio - October 21 - 2:00 amLove this vehicle. It is reliable, sleek, and fun to drive. Drives just like a car.
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My RX 300 Rocks! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
By RX350 Rocks - September 26 - 12:03 amWe bought this used in California on vacation and shipped it to Indiana. Very fun to drive. And we cant believe its almost 8 years old. Just got timing belt, water pump and serpentine belt changed at 97,000 miles. It drives like a new car and is good for another 100k! We plan on driving this for a very long time. Weve been through two snowy winters and it drives great. Its styling still looks pretty modern and I like it a lot better than the 330. Its got no blind spots. One thing to note, check Toyota dealerships for major maintenance work...found to be a lot cheaper than Lexus dealers!
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I LOVE THIS CAR!!! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
By lexusloverx300 - September 25 - 10:00 amomg. i have never driven a car so comforable...so awsome!!! The traction is amazing and I NEVER feel as though i am going to flip. and the people at the dealership were so friendly and helpful. They really helped me and my husband to find our dream car-and at such an affordable price!!!
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My Favorite Vehicle...Until - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By bridgils - August 19 - 10:00 amI have loved this vehicle since the first test drive. It exceeded my expectations for years until today. This SUV is notorious for costly transmission failures - today I join this club. It would have been the perfect vehicle if the tran would have held up. The repair cost is anticipated to be the blue book on the vehicle - tough call.
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PERFECT SUV - 2001 Lexus RX 300
By bryce - August 15 - 7:06 amI LOVE MY LEXUS RX300. Everything about the car is absolutely perfect. It is quick off of the line and handles very well. The interior is beautiful and very comftorable. There is plenty of space and it sits the perfect height off of the ground. THE STANDARD SOUND SYSTEM IS AMAZING. I love everything about it.
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Outstanding vehicle - 2001 Lexus RX 300
By Mike - August 11 - 5:30 pmI love it. I can never go back to any of the vehicles I had before. Its a dream to drive.
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Lexus Rx 300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
By edrosen@shaw.ca - July 27 - 2:00 amVehicle is very comfortable to ride in, almost car like, in ride and handling. Reliability and quality are excellent.
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Great car. - 2001 Lexus RX 300
By pdriver - June 26 - 10:00 amA great combination of luxury and practicality. This car is equally at home in an upscale social scene or hauling home plants and potting soil. Mileage is excellent for SUV; average of 20 MPG in mostly in-town driving. Would definitely purchase this vehicle again.
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Great Value!!! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By Happy Lexus - May 5 - 10:00 amAt the convergence of great quality at a fair price, you have value. It is has plenty of power. Great traction even in the rain & snow. Very comfortable.
