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:
Showing 91 through 100 of 403.00-
Sludge engine car- do not own - 2001 Lexus RX 300
By bob305 - November 26 - 4:13 amForget what you think about Lexus and Toyotas quality, the 3.0 L engine in this vehicle has a KNOWN defect that Toyota/Lexus has been ducking for years. My car blew an engine despite proper oil changes and care. Problems generally occurs after 100,000 miles after warranty. Toyota settled a class action lawsuit on this and essentially paid lawyers millions so they can duck the problem. Google "Sludge Engine" but be aware you have a time bomb on your hands.
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Lexus RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By Leanne - November 24 - 9:46 pmI bought my Lexus when it was 3 years old. I dont like to buy new cars because you lose so much money on them, I prefer certified used cars. The only problem Ive had with this car is that the air conditioning went out after Id had it a year but it was covered by the extended warranty. Otherwise its been a great car. I like the way it looks and it feels very solid on the road in all kinds of weather. One criticism of the inside design is there is no in-dash CD player but this is fixed with later models
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Transmission Blues - 2000 Lexus RX 300
By Fuming - November 21 - 10:00 amUp until today I LOVED my Rx. It is just the right size for a woman to handle and still has power and style. But today, I was told that my vehicle needs a new transmission to the tune of $4,000...count em, $4 grand! Of course it is just 5,000 miles out of warranty. Wondering if anyone else has had this same problem. Called an independent transmission shop and they said they see it on this model all the time! Yikes, Im thinking about dumping it for the MDX. At least my Acura and Hondas have always kept running even with 200,000 plus miles wracked up!
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Stay away - 1999 Lexus RX 300
By Eddie Hairr - November 17 - 9:40 amI love Lexus and currently own two. However, the RX has been very unreliable and left us stranded on vacation two summers in a row. I purchased the vehicle with 48K miles and didnt expect any problems; however, that was short lived. Everything from electrical issues to fuel system issues has plagued the vehicle. In the last two years alone, the maintenance costs have exceeded $6K. I know, I must be an idiot for keeping it this long. The longer I try to keep the vehicle to receive a return for the maintenance costs, the more it burns my wallet. Believe it or not, the vehicle is 10 years old, very well maintained and doesnt even have 100K miles yet. The repair costs far exceed the miles driven.
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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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Katies - 2003 Lexus RX 300
By Katie L. Hannigan - October 6 - 3:26 pmStill smells like "NEW"! I want to sell this car for a 2005?? model. Poor turning radius & does not coast at all - you let off the gas & thats it. Uses more gas that way! Short seats being husband is 6 & long legged. Gives him sciatica!
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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.
