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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  My first Lexus - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By sp8891 - April 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this used with 50,000 miles...have put on 10, 000 since. Great ride, luxury feel, but still functional. I especially like that its lower to the ground to get into but high enough to see the road ahead clearly. I drove an Infiniti Q45 before this one, and was sure I would miss it, but I am happier with this small SUV and would buy it again.

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  BEST of the BEST - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Good Man - March 30 - 10:00 am

  My best SUV/CAR I owned so far !

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  I love my Lexus - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By R in Detroit - March 25 - 10:00 am

  The first thing I noticed driving my Lexus was that it made everything easy. It is easy to get into, easy to steer, easy to accelerate, easy to change radio stations. Everything is easy. I have had upscale Jeep Grand Cherokees and GM Blazers. The Blazers are still way too trucky. You have to push the accelerator all the way down and it groans along. My Lexus seems much more peppy. Id say it rides lot like the Grand Cherokee. It is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have not had to do anything to it in 20000 miles. I have never owned an American made vehicle that didnt need to be in the shop for some repair within the first year.

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  Solid SUV - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By mdavis - March 5 - 10:00 am

  70,000 miles and no issues with this vehicle. Very well built with no rattles.

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  After several months of driving - Review - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By JabaJaba - February 26 - 2:00 am

  This truck is excellent! Two things the are outstanding are the base stereo and the brakes. The stereo is crisp, clear, rich, and loud. It is the best sound system I have ever heard. The braking system is superb. Braking is smooth and effortless and is not touchy or grabby at all.

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  Two RX300s already and still loving it. - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By thebest - January 3 - 10:00 am

  This car drives like no other SUV including the Mercedes ML320 BMW X5 is the real competition, but still, dont drive like the RX and is more expensive. If you buy one, buy the AWD. Youll never going to drive another car.

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  Bought New - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Mermi - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a WONDERFUL SUV. I did upgrade the tires to Pathfinder SUV and find they are better than the original ones. Ive had really no problems of any magnitude. Would I buy a new Lexus again? Definitely YES!

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  Nice Car - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Tinka - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Brought my 2001 RX300 AWD/w Navigation in May 2004 the overall cars is nice, it has SUV performance with a luxury sedan style and drive. I got rid of my 1999 Acura 3.2TL for the RX and the ride is alot different. The pick up is alot slower on the RX, the leather in the RX is too soft, easily wrinkled. Both have all of the same features. Salesman at Lexus dealer-superb.

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  Excellent SUV - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By P.L. Savemart - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This is an excellent sport utility vehicle. The gas mileage for me is 20.1 mpg. I choose suv over cars because of the better suspension. I am able to haul more weight than a regular car. The ride and handling is smooth on especially on highway and country side.

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  Good Car, Bad Gas Mileage - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By ctchanimal - September 22 - 2:00 am

  With 71K on my RX, I cant complain of any mechanical problems. However, Im only averaging 11-15 mpg on premium gas. This is big enough of a problem for me to consider selling. Other than than that, great acceleration, looks, reliability, and comfort