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:

• 

  Love Lexus - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By SandiR - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I love my Lexus. Has been the best vehicle I have owned. Was hit in the drivers side front corner by someone running a red light one year ago. I remember the firemen and EMTs telling us we walked away only because it was a Lexus. Lenghty repairs(10 wks) but have not encountered any problems afterwards. Because of the accident, I learned many things about its construction and safety features, especially the airbags. Mine did not deploy but later found out they were not suppose to because of the location of impact. Negotiated price $33,000

• 

  Luxury???? - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By TB07 - August 11 - 5:46 am

  If you noticed, the annual mileage portion of this review was left blank. I couldnt comment, as I have only had my RX for 6 months, 3 of which Ive been dealing with nothing but problems. 20 days post-warranty, my short block of the engine needed replacement, as it was burning excessive oil. Lexus stood behind the motor, but left me with the $2500-3000 labor bill. Dealership was horrible-- referring to me as a person looking to get an extra buck anyway I can; telling me I didnt appreciate any of the work they had done; and my list could go on! Will never deal with Lexus or Bergstrom ever again!

• 

  Hasnt Lived Up To The Lexus Reputation - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Vivvy - August 2 - 2:00 am

  Legendary Lexus quality--the total ownership experience--has turned out to be more legend than reality in this case. The dealerships service dept has been less than stellar, far surpassed by the local Accura dealership--and even the local Honda dealer. Whats wrong with the car? Lots of little things, surprisingly too many to write down. An overall disappointment.

• 

  comfort and quality - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By mroberts - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Overall this is an excellent vehicle for someone who doesnt go off-road but wants a less than full size sport wagon. It rides very well, shows excellent construction and has a super dealer network that treats you like royalty. The only negatives I have found are the short turning radius, more wind noise than I expected in a Lexus when on the highway and the plastic interior moulding/trim that is prone to scratches.

• 

  Cant miss luxury - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By rob - July 18 - 12:56 pm

  Purchased 2000 RX 300 on 08/04. This vehicle is everything you could want in a entry level luxury SUV. I agree that the RPMs seem high (3000 @ 70 mph), hopefully this will be addressed in future. Nice styling and Toyotas famous reliability make this a great choice. If they make enough RX 400hs in the next few years, I definitely would buy another Lexus.

• 

  okay car - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By dake - July 18 - 12:36 am

  this is a nice car. the dealer dave mungenast is not a good dealer. the car milage is wrong. we all exepet that love our lexus rx300.

• 

  RX300 Pretty Damn Fun - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By acknbad - July 14 - 10:00 am

  As a devoted Chevy truck man, it was fun and easy to switch over to the front-drive RX.

• 

  Bumpy ride - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By MARIO - June 25 - 10:00 am

  I like the design and interior of the SUV.

• 

  Id do it again - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Linda F - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy this car. I do crafting, home projects and gardening and its perfect for hauling my supplies. It also gives me the flexibility of carrying passengers in comfort. Everyone who rides in the car comments on how smooth a ride it is.

• 

  LuvMyRX!!! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By LuvMyRX - June 10 - 9:26 pm

  Ive had this car for 3 years now. I purchased it certified pre-owned from the dealership and I still love it. All my friends want to drive my car. No one believes me when I tell them its a 2000 vehicle. Handles great with very comfortable seats. The cargo space is great. The back seats fold down easily and the only problem is that its so roomy, it cant always take all the weight for home improvement projects!