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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  Reliability - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Bruce Lipe - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because of the fact that everyone I know who has a Lexus has had no issues. I traded an Audi 2.8 quattro in for this and miss the sporty driving experience, but it was in the shop frequently. The RX 300 is very practical and drives more like a car than other SUVs tested. Now I wish I would have opted for the navigation system.

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  lEXUS RX300 REVIEW AFTER 10 YEARS - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By nahash - July 24 - 4:53 am

  Hi, I have this car for 10 years now with 220k In general it was a great car very comfi to drive. It had few small problems but 2 problems that I want to share with all potential owners. One is with the anti lock brake sensors. During the 10 years had to change 2 anti lock sensors. 1000$ cost for each.Lexus built the antilock sensor into the drive shafts so there are 4 sensors in this car as it is a 4 wheel drive ( 4 shafts). In order to change the sensor the shaft must be replaced with a cost close to 1000$. Other issue is the timing belt. This model has a timing belt that must be changed around the 180k with a cost to the customer of close to 1000$. so be aware this is what you will face

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  OK Drive -- Overpriced - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By cajhawk - July 20 - 10:00 am

  Basically a Toyota with the "consumer- based" sales and marketing of Lexus. Fairly enjoyable car, but a bit overpriced for what you get. Definitely worth waiting for a used one after depreciation. Love the navigation system; dont get without it!

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  Favorite car Ive ever owned !!! - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By connie sandlin - July 16 - 11:23 am

  Getting ready to let go of my Lexus 2001 RX 300 - I must say it has my favorite car that I have ever owned. It has been fun to drive, comfortable and most importantly, dependable!! Getting quite a few miles on the car so I felt its time to move on. I have just purchased the new 2008 RX 350 to replace my previous 2001. Because I enjoyed my first Lexus SUV so much I decided to go ahead and get another!

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  Do It Again - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By DoubleZ - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Its a Lexus. Lives up to all the hype. Excellent every day car. Just wish it would wash itself, too.

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  All around useful ute. - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Tproth - July 6 - 10:00 am

  The only glitch so far has been a defective driver door hinge (covered by Lexus). The Lexus experience has been wonderful.

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  disappointment for 40k - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By cfeaton - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Too many rattles, squeeks, creaks and little stuff to worry about -- very un- Lexus-like. Dealer talks a good game but usually does not fix problems on first try. Two service occasions have required me to return car to fix problems that they created during service! Hmmmmmmmm. Superb ride and suspension. Great drive. Velvet drivetrain. Beautiful styling. Great traction. Very good utility. I would try something else next time. Sorry.

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  Nice Ride - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Uzair Munis - July 1 - 10:00 am

  This is an amazing car! i love the ride and handeling!

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  This car saved my life - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By asimkhan0620 - June 4 - 5:30 pm

  If there was a higher rating for build quality and reliability besides excellent, this car would get it. As a senior in high school my parents allowed me to drive this car to school and back. However, one day coming back home i was stopped in a construction zone. A car going around 60 mph apparently did not realize that i was stopped in front and nailed my back bumper. I felt the impact but the car beautifully absorbed the blow. I was so grateful i was driving a truck, a high quality lexus truck, as the accident could have been a lot worse. as the accident could have been a lot worse.

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  Held up well in wreck - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By M - May 31 - 3:43 pm

  I enjoyed this vehicle until the day it was totaled. It held up really well in the accident. Airbags deployed as designed, side door panels kept interior safe. Gas shut off switch functioned properly. Seatbelts locked. Did not roll over. Im looking for another one to replace it. Only major trouble that I had was the transmission at about 150000, but car had 170000 on it at time of wreck.