2003 Lexus RX 300 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.65/5 Average
69 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Nothing has changed for the RX 300 during its move from 2002 to 2003. Prospective buyers should note that it will get a complete redesign for 2004.

Pros:
  • Well-appointed interior, perfect road manners, excellent crash test results, optional four-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Allergic to major off-highway work, cumbersome LCD screen in center of dash, feels more like a minivan than an SUV.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 69.00
  • Lexus RX - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    Just a little disappointed. I think if I had to do it over I would buy the Hummer.

  • Beware of driveability - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    I have 1,200 miles on my RX and have had it in for service 3 times to try to fix the tracking, alignment problem. The car will not drive down the road straight and stay driving straight as if the front and rear wheels are out of sync or camber. I have to constantly correct the car from drifting right and left. Its as though it responds to any and every imperfection or shift in the road and will drift off regardless of whether you have the wheel pointed straight. I cannot relax and cruise with this car and must keep my arms flexed and be ready for every unexpected shift in direction. Long drives are out of the question. I couldnt be more unhappy...

  • Love my lexus - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    It is a joy to drive, I love the way it looks. If you want an suv buy it.

  • Moved from sedan to RX 300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    This vehicle is a pleasure to drive. The AWD is flawless, the car has plenty of power (for me), the ride is very smooth and quiet. I preferred this cars ride to the ES 300 sedan which I found floated to much. This car is an all around treat to drive. Good viewing all around from drivers seat.

  • Bad experience - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    I think Ive got a lemon this time. Terrible rattle comes from the left side of the vehicle. Excessive wind noise at 60mph. According to a service "professional" from Putnam Lexus the wind noise is a standard for this type of vehicle, and I could get rid of it by folding the driver side mirror. This car was in service several times but all the problems are still there + Ive got several new ones like scratch on the bumper and ink on leather. My advice: Test this vehicle on all types of road before purchasing, and BEWARE of the service department at Putnam Lexus in Redwood City, CA

  • Good SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    I bought my RX 3 months ago as a pampered one owner with 102K miles an excellent maintenance history. I have owned several Toyotas so was attracted to the quality and reliability of the Lexus brand. We also have a 2009 Nissan Rogue with 117K miles so I will use that car as a comparison. My RX is based on the Toyota Highlander and drives like one. The ride is smooth but a bit "trucky" on back roads with bumps. The turning radius is wide compared to most cars. The transmission is a 4 speed which is outdated by todays standards. At 62" I could use a little more front leg room - wish the seat had more travel (a body shop could fix this for a few hundred dollars). This is a very good car with a lot of features and I would buy it again. Compared to our 6 year newer Rogue, the RX is not competitive as far as handling, gas mileage, and suspension refinement. The car does exude quality though and even the under carriage is really clean for a 13 year old car. No evidence of body rust or rusted out brake lines like a friends Chevy truck. Toyota/Honda/Nissan must use more alloys as none of my cars have issues with under body rust. October 2016 and the Lexus is still bullet proof and all is well. Just routine maintenance.

  • Great SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    Ive had it for 1 1/2 years and have loved every minute of it. This is the 2nd SUV Ive owned and the other one didnt come close to this one. So far Ive I had great gas mileage for an SUV (22.5)-thats almost as good as my last CAR! It is worth the price.

  • Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    This SUV/car is very fun to drive. It feels like a car yet gives you the advantages of an SUV. I have always felt that Lexus is overpriced. After owning one for almost a year, I understand why people are willing to pay a premium for these vehicles.

  • Great Vehicle -- Needs some Updating - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    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.

  • EXCELLENT SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
    By -

    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.

Lexus RX 300 Reviews By Year:
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