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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  Fix the Rattles - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Minnesota gal - May 30 - 10:00 am

  This is my second RX300. I had a 1999 and now drive a 2001 with the Navigation system. The Navigation system is accurate to within about 5 feet. Impressive!! Its great in Minnesota winters; very sure-footed. Great sound system, very comfortable, nice high ride that feels like a car. I drive a lot of miles and I feel very safe in this SUV.

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  REEEEEAAAAALLLY Nice - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Casey - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I get 25 bucks worth of enjoyment every time I drive this car...Solid handling, wonderful traction going up my "driveway from hell" during the icy winters in NJ, good visibility, great looks.

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  My Wifes Cloud - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By ms - May 7 - 2:30 am

  Last year I purchased this SUV for my wife. I must say Im sold on Lexus the car is wonderful to drive and the other day when I applied the ECT snow feature I was impressed with the active response. We are now a Lexus family, I will purchase either a LS 400 or SC 3 or 400 this spring.

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  Happy with my RX - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By ASINOW - May 7 - 2:00 am

  Good looking well built SUV. Very pleased

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  Worst Car Ever Purchased. - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Upset with Lexus - May 5 - 5:13 pm

  I bought this car for reliability and have put so much money into repairs on this car that Ive exceeded the value of the car. At 110,000 miles the transmission went out! (I thought Lexus built quality) I have had to replace 4 oxygen censors at the tune of $450 each. The engine now leaks oil. Just got new oxygen sensor last week & various other repairs ($800) today the check engine light came on again!! I am so disappointed in Lexus. I contacted them about the transmission problem which 1000s of people are having and received nothing! I thought when I bought Lexus I was buying a great car that would last forever!! NOT!! U need to trade this car at 80000.

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  how many 02 sensors can one car need replacing - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By chrissylynn53 - April 24 - 7:30 am

  I have had the alternator go out. and countless sensors it goes in the shop about 1 time a year for at least 500 in repairs. I will never buy a lexus again biggest piece of crap. I will buy a ford for my next car. I broke down 100 miles from home and had to hitch hike. scary. I [non-permissible content removed] hate this car

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  What a Great Car! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By CSAustin - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car based on the rave reviews, high levels of safety & comfort. We were not comparing with the other luxury SUVs, but rather the Pathfinder, 4Runner, Highlander, Grand Cherokee, etc. Very, very pleased with this choice. Definitely worth a little more money for the level of comfort, safety and reliability.

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  Toyota Quality Gone Astray - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By ukfan4sure! - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This is a very nice riding vehicle. For the most part reliable, but when it hits you, it hits you hard. Every since I have owned this vehicle, it has stumbled, sputtered, and fell on its face at random times of its own choosing. I have had it into the shop many times and most of the time they replace the components most likely to cause the problem based on the "codes" it throws. No fix. Ever. It is so unreliable, my wife says NEVER AGAIN will we buy Lexus. NOW, we find out that the transmission is going out (with regular maintenance given) and this is just the last straw. Its gonna cost us $4 grand to fix. Wow. Now Im even saying NEVER AGAIN. What a shame for such a nice vehicle.

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  Still going strong - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Allan - February 29 - 5:36 am

  In past 18 months have put over 50k miles on car, now at 135k and going strong. Only normal maintenance, nothing more. Still rides, runs and stops as well as it did new. Ive heard about transmission probs, but none for me (hoping the towing package helps w/ that). Strong metal used, just picked up first door dings this year - and took a good wallop at that. I keep looking at new cars, but just cant justify it when this one runs so well and looks so good.

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  Love it !!! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By koolcat - February 28 - 10:00 am

  The best car/SUV purchase we have ever made. Very happy with it so far. Drives well, smooth and good handling. For that price and a luxury SUV, could have many more features and less wind noise. Lacks power.