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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  Dependable SUV - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Tim Farrell - January 4 - 9:24 am

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  Love My 01 RX300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By kshouser - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car last Sept. brand new -- and I couldnt be happier. Very smooth, great acceleration & handling, awesome brakes and sound system and comfort... Love sitting up higher and great cargo space in the back. And this is AFTER owning a 98 Mercedes E320 sedan - No comparison!! And yes, Im a chick , and its definitely a chick car!!!

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  RX300-Whats There Not to Like! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By TengPresby - November 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my second RX300 (my previous was a 1999), and if Lexus keeps it up, I may never switch to another vehicle! It rides comfortably and drives instinctively. The gas mileage is superb for a SUV its class--19mph. On REGULAR gas! This is for around town in the Washington Metro area! The styling is appealing and the High Intensity Discharge Headlights are great.

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  Great Car- Bad dealership - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Rudy12 - November 23 - 2:00 am

  By far the best buy in my life! I have been leasing new cars, but decided to purchase. This being the oldest car by far- Still stands out over the new cars like Nissan and Volkswagon(not that there bad cars, b/c their not) But this ride is so smooth is sick!

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  rx300 review - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By runner1 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  excellent vehicle. rates very high on power, comfort, quality. only bad point is less than anticipated gas milage, but still OK. 14-19 - city-highway.

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  7 years later still up to date - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By toy4two - November 21 - 11:03 am

  I really think the RX 300 is the best deal going in used cars. I test drove a 2006 Lexus GS and I found out the only feature missing in my 2000 RX 300 is cooling seats to go with my heated seats. Everything else is there, and being a Lexus, its all in the same place, HomeLink, seat heaters, wonderful ergonomics, great leather. It did have an in dash CD changer which was also a nice add on. But for the money, my 00 AWD is basically the same. Power was close, smoothness, quietness. About the only upgrade would be more wood on the interior. This car is boring though, I wont lie, its rock solid reliable but its like a reliable washing machine or some other appliance, not exactly sporty.

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  Best Car Ever - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Luann Butcher - October 26 - 12:13 pm

  I have never owned a more reliable comfortable vehicle before. I would recommend to anyone.

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  Awesome - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By gysor - October 19 - 6:56 pm

  cool

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  Love my Lexus - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By No minivan mom - October 1 - 10:00 am

  Excellant small to mid-size luxury vehicle with the comfort of AWD. Comfortable to drive, even my 63" husband has no problem with headroom, even with a retractable moon roof. Plenty of room in backseat, if you dont need the availability of 3rd row seating with plenty of cargo area also.

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  I like mu lexus - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By GFW - September 3 - 10:00 am

  fun to drive , handle like a car, good view, quiet,look small outside, but roomy inside.