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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  Not sure but hopeful - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Genia - December 26 - 10:06 pm

  Bought the car around 60K miles; very nice looking interior and exterior. Very comfortable ride and heated seats still get hot at 179,000 miles. However, transmission had to be replaced last year since it would not go in rear drive. Lexus assisted a bit, perhaps because this is our third Lex. Still had a $3000 bill. Recent repairs $800 and now ABS axle broke so looking at another $1000 repair. Must say our 97 Lex Es300 has 300,000 miles and rides very nice still with only minor repairs. Our 05 Lex Es 330 is roomier but still ride was better in 97. Paint superior on all three cars. In the market for a newer car, just not sure if I should get another RX. A bit formal style vs. casual.

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  Lexus RX - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Kenny Ken - December 22 - 10:00 am

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

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  Great Vehicle - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By roo2 - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Love the car. Excellent in winter.

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  LaTreses Lexus!!! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By latresec - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I really love my Lexus. My heart was set on the X5 but after driving both, the Lexus has a smoother ride. The dash isnt as massive as the X5 and I just believe for my style the Lexus is a better match.

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  Bad experience - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By RX300Owner - September 15 - 2:00 am

  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

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  not a real suv - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By no off road vehicle - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Not a real off road SUV,not enough power .If you like a sedan , this would be a good one.

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  MY LEASE IS UP IM GONNA CRY - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By PETERPAL49 - July 29 - 10:00 am

  IVE HAD MY RX FOR 3 YEARS NOW AND IT HAS BEEN BY FAR THE BEST VEHICLE IVE EVER HAD. HAD MANY COMPLIMENTS ON THE VEHICLE EVEN FROM TEENAGERS. SITTING IN THE RX IS LIKE BEING IN YOUR LIVING ROOM, GAS MILEAGE IS NOT BAD FOR ITS SIZE, AVERAGING 22MPG. EVERYTHING WORKS PERFECTLY. AND VERY QUIET AT 70MPH.

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  Best Used Car I Ever Owned - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By FEdward - July 21 - 12:13 pm

  Purchased my RX with 84K miles and a 100K warranty. Car was in spectacular condition and according to service records had been meticulously maintained. Dealership found a leaky rear axle seal under warranty, but had no other issues. The 90K maintenance was a bit pricey (timing belt, flushes, et. al.) but reasonable. A fuel modulator had to be replaced right after warranty expired for @ $700 parts & labor. Have not encountered the engine failures that others have reported. Fit, finish & features still solid at 115K and dealership has been just wonderful. Bought an 07 ES 350 two months ago and the trusty 02 RX has become our fun, weekender. This vehicle sold me on future Lexuses from now on!

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  Good SUV - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Brant - June 25 - 9:45 pm

  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.

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  Lexus rx - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By billy joe - June 18 - 11:13 pm

  A great SUV. Interior little small for six footers or over. Gas mileage sensitive to speed. Would purchase again because of quality and reliability. Can put up with minor inconveniences in the "cockpit", e.g., the big hump in the cener that bumps your knee when you enter the vehicle and in the way of your right knee when driving.