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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  2002 RX 300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Hall - September 3 - 8:00 am

  I drive, sell and study all types of vehicles. We recently bought a 2002, 4 year old RX 300, with 44k miles. It is excellent in every way. My wife loves the "fit", not too large, and not too small. The instrument panel, the mileage, the ride, and the overall performance is excellent. We are leaving next week for a 2000 mile road trip, and look forward to going in the RX 300.

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  Ive Wanted One Since 1999 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Miami Hurricanes! - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Since 1999, I have found this to be the best looking vehicle on the road. Apparently, so does everyone else as you can see one every time youre stopped at an intersection! I was between this car and the Acura MDX, and this car basically won out due to looks and the slightly more luxurious interior. The acceleration is slower than what Im used to with luxury sedans, but you can get it going when you really need to. Very comfortable ride, and I just love driving this car. Im only 28, so I guess Im young for this car, but I dont care. I just love it.

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  Ya think? - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By docksund - August 16 - 2:00 am

  This year I purchased three Lexus vehicles. First the LX470 (too big and hard to handle), then the ES300 (SUPER car, but still yearned for Utility. The RX fills the gap between the sedan and the SUV. Still handles and rides like the Sedan with all the Utility of an SUV. Great Single Female vehicle, especially with the NAV system with Emergency capability. Too Cool! Bravo Lexus!

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  The Best SUV ever!!! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By vinster29 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  The Lexus RX300 sets the standard for all of the other SUVs on the market. Even with all of the copycats out there, their is still not other cross- over SUV like the RX300. People are always telling me how nice my RX looks even though they just came out with the RX330. Lexus has outdone themselves with this vehicle!!

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  Love my car! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Chikita - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Very good ride and handling.Feels more like a car ride more than an SUV.Not too big or small. Very roomy inside. Csn always find a parking space!

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  Still Gorgeous - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Frumious - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Shes 6 years old now and still seems brand new. Not a single flaw - ever. The paint polishes up showroom perfect. The leather is still perfect. Im really appreciating the quality design materials and workmanship that went into this car. Much, much better than my 2001 Benz ML. (which I just sold out of dissappointment).

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  Great car - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Liz - May 9 - 1:46 am

  This is a great little car. It handles the road well and is very comfortable. The only problem I have with it is the terrible turning radius and the small gas tank has to be filled up often twice a week.

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  the "feel good" ride - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By rkworth - April 13 - 10:00 am

  we just purchased a used 2000 rx300, and loved it so much, purchased another 1999. i was a die-hard nissan fan, but i have to say this is a great ride for the money. drive one, and you will want to own one. one thing i noticed later, lexus has 2 sound systems. nakamichi and i believe pioneer. if you can, get the nakamichi - it sounds better, and has more of a "punch". either way, the vehicle is a dream to drive.

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  2001 RX 300 - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By DevLopper - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a fine car and the quality in design and craftmanship stand out.

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  Amazing - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Melissa Perea - April 6 - 5:03 am

  I love this car! I had a 1987 Chevy Blazer for the past 7 years and now I know why people buy luxury cars. It has been the best experience ever driving this car and I cant imagine my life without it now. Very luxurious and comfortable. Its the perfect SUV.