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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  A car dressed as an SUV - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By nyeard - December 12 - 10:00 am

  I just traded in my 1998 nissan maxima to get the RX.300 and I kid you not, The RX300 rides smoothier then my max did. The service is top notch. As for the car itself, it is a jack of all trades type of vehicle. You can run around in the snow one day and go out on the town the next. I was looking to buy a BMW X 5 but want ever I got I wanted it fully loaded. To get a fully loaded X 5 I would have had to spend 52 thousand dollars. I got my RX 300 4wd fully loaded with every option you could possibly get ( except the coach edition) and paid 38 thousand. Granted the RX300 is no X 5 but cheaper insurance and to ability to use regular gas is good enough for me

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  Feel like a Princess - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By tileo - November 30 - 2:00 am

  bought my wife a brand new white RX300. She loved it. The exterior/interior design is so slick. The ride is so smooth and quiet. This SUV is the best.

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  Rx300 Yr2000 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Moi - November 30 - 2:00 am

  This car/SUV has excellent handling, great road stability in avoidance manoeuver (avoided a major crash at around 65 mph - thanks to the ABS). Nice pick up for a six, decent gas mileage. Interior well designed & all controls are well located. Could use a little more headroom (64"), & would like a telescopic steering wheel. A little wind noise at high speed. Excellent cabin noise reduction, where one can have speaker phone conversation without background noise. Great audio set up. Center console has four drink- holders, and enough storage to keep everyone happy. Overall a very satisfying driving experience all around, whether on long or short haul.

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  The Best SUV ever!!! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By vinster29 - November 14 - 10:00 am

  The Lexus RX300 is the best SUV on the market hands down. I have gotten more compliments about my RX300 than any other car that I own!!! This car is definitely worth the investment!!

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  Lexus RX300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By LenJAllen - October 28 - 5:20 am

  I have owned several SUVs during the past 10 years. This is the most comfortable, the most stylish, and the most fun to drive. I debated between a Ford Explorer and the Lexus two years ago and ended up with the Explorer. If I had known what I was missing, I would have purchased the Lexus then. I have driven the Merecedes M series SUV and the BMW X5. The Lexus has the besr ride by far. I really love the way it handles and the way it absorbs bumps in the road. I couldnt be more pleased.

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  satified sewell customer for life - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By nlstraughter - October 21 - 10:00 am

  This is a smooth riding vehicle with lots of comfort and style, ride in luxury , very dependable, holds its value.

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  Love my RX300 - to sell? or not to sell? - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Rob Field - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle for my wife 2 years ago. I am the second owner. I have had Jeeps -- Driving in the snow is better then my Jeep. I am debating whether to sell and buy the Mercedes that I have wanted or stick with this most reliable machine. With 64K mil its like it will go 200K+ Its been such a tough decision. HELP! It was my wifes now its mine. Its so nice and so reliable! Do I realy want a 2000 E320 or keep this ???!!! Great Car!

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  Pure Luxury - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By wolfpack - October 13 - 2:00 am

  We shopped for SUVs for over a year and the RX 300 is the best overall SUV for the money, bar none. It is the best looking and the most comfortable. We definitely love this SUV.

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  milage reliability - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By pbuehler - October 9 - 2:42 am

  the first 120000 were smooth trouble free getting 18mpg town/25mpg road. went to bridgestone tires and rides like a limo. leather seats are thin but comfortable. at 125000 2 fuel injectors worn out $700. at 135000 smog canister failure light $700. now, front passenger seat air bag system warning lights. cost ? as it is going to someone else.

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  Luxury Utility Vehicle - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By PGLUVSLEXUS - September 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2001 RX300 in May 2004. So far, I LOVE IT! Absolutely smooth ride and handling. You also get a great view of the road. The Lexus dealer in Rockville Centre, NY, serviced my car wonderfully. They defined all the needs of the car, and handled them, detailing every step to me.