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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  I love my RX 300! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By skelco11 - April 21 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Lexus but first RX. Drives just like a car. Its easy to handle, and it has everything Ive come to love in the Lexus brand: smooth ride, luxurious interior, easy-to-read display.

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  maliks review - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By maliksul - April 2 - 10:00 am

  Excellent suv good in snow, this is my second lexus and I wouldnt have any thing else. the only problem is gas mileage.

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  We did our homework - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Boiseyankfan - March 20 - 2:00 am

  To anyone looking at these 4 SUVs. Acura MDX, BMW X5, and the Mercedes. We compared everything. Lots of on- line work and dealerships.However, the Lexus up tops in almost every category and we got the car for $34k. The Acura would have been $43k. The Mercedes was $39k and the BMW was outta site at $49k. All with basically the same features. The Lexus rides/feels like a car and the others feel like a truck. So.. with the warranty and awesome Lexus service, if your looking to have your cake and eat it too, this is it. The RX has it all. This is not an offroad SUV. Its a luxury street SUV, so instead of getting it dirty, turn some heads!

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  Love this car - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By LexusLover - March 9 - 11:16 pm

  I bought new, have had for 9 now and still in love. I now have 245k on the RX 300. I just bought an RX 350 to replace my first love. The old RX 300 is going to my daughter, and insurance rates cant be beat with this car. Expect 19-24 mpg using mid-grade.

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  Six month owner - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Diana - February 17 - 2:10 am

  Its been six months since I bought my RX 300. We had a horrendous winter and I drove with hardly a worry once I saw how this magificent vehicle handled in the snow and ice. Traction and stability are exceptional. My only complaint is the heater didnt keep my feet warm on my hour drive to work - but, to be fair, it was in the below zero range. A very luxurious car! Gas mileage is very consistent at 20.5 mpg for both highway and city. I just wish I could get it up to 23mpg. Something about the design of the lower part of the door frame is causing the rubber trim to be ripped. Hopefully this will be covered under the warranty.

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Nike587 - February 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. It drives really well. It is the perfect vehicle for anyone on the go.

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  Good deal - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By pabuehl - January 29 - 1:46 am

  Bought this new and in 90000 had no problems at all. Very comfortable on short/long trips and milage 18 town/25 road. Everything works just like the first day and I really look for problems so I can fix them before they become big and just do scheduled maintenance/no surprises.

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  awsome - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By doru baragau - January 22 - 10:59 am

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  2001 RX300 AWD w/NAV - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By drummerboy - January 12 - 2:00 am

  I love the Navigation system... although it would be nice if it responds faster.

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  WOW!! - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By johnwstefan - December 20 - 2:00 am

  What a great car! Just bought this for my wife. Dealership was great, could not have been nicer or more professional. Good deal on the car but the best part IS the car (not always true with a new car purchase). The build quality, ride, stability and bang for the buck are unsurpased. Lexus just earned themselves a life-long customer!