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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  Absolutely Great Car - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By atlanta - May 30 - 2:23 pm

  This car has not given me one single problem. I do have it maintained according to schedule and it has been the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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  Excellent Car - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By DMiller - May 27 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car I ever own. Ultra reliable. Lexus dealership is much better than BMWs, honest and warm but classy. A Japanese supercar.

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  The Best Lux_SUV... If you dont compare - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Bill91367 - May 19 - 12:33 pm

  One of the main reason for the purchase of this car was the handling; Its really drives like a car thats been raised by about 8 inches off the ground. Wind noise is excessive at freeway speeds for a luxury car.

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  Disappointing - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Jerry Kaye - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I am a little disappointed in the car. Ive had to replace the ignition switch, and now the check engine light comes on. Some say its an O2 sensor, another shop said it was an exhaust leak. I did however, detect a leak when it was on the lift.

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  My 2000 RX 300 Lexus - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By gloraus - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful ride and quietness. The service has been fine. Ive had the car for almost 3 years, and have had zero problems.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By raffello - April 3 - 4:36 am

  Awesome car! love how smooth it is. Great for longer trips, not as fun as my Porsche but what is?

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  Very Very Nice - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Jay T. - April 2 - 2:00 am

  We were thoroughly impressed with this vehicle since first test driving one in 2000. Thought about an 04 (they are very nice,too), but the 01-03 model is just more fluid, had better takeoff, and considerably less engine noise. The interior is definitely upscale. All that wood makes you feel like youre driving around in a den. More leg room, especially in the back, than most of the other SUVs we drove. We have the blue mist with black leather,with every option except AWD and Navigation, and it is simply beautiful. This is one nice vehicle. Just what I expected from a Lexus.

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  Linus our RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Art Brown - March 31 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is another example of the superb cars produced by Lexus. Nothing breaks and the maintenance service is outstanding I would own nothing other than a Lexus

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  Praise for the Lexus RX300! - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By TengPresby - March 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my second RX300 and I love it! (My previous one was a 1999.) Together with the GPS package, it gets me everywhere I want to go, with ease, comfort and style. The design and technology is first rate and the gas mileage is excellent (average 19, with mostly city driving and regular gasoline!). If Lexus keeps it up, I dont think Ill ever change to another make again.

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  A nice luxury SUV. - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By RonZ - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Good acceleration, 0-60 in 8.5 seconds. Not as smooth a ride as one would expect, especially on California freeways.