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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  suv thats fun to drive and trouble free - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By David M. Barnett - October 31 - 10:00 am

  The Lexas RX300 if the perfect family suv because it is fun to drive, has more cargo room than the Jeep Grand Cherokee LTD, best fuel mileage in its class and completely trouble free and totally reliable.

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  Quality Vehicle - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Chicago - October 31 - 4:16 am

  We bought ours used with 78K miles in 2005. We were taking our chances with Toyota quality and we are glad we did. The car has no problems till this day with 110K. We have promptly serviced our car with timing belt replacement, new tires, new brakes, and new alternator over three years and it is still running strong. Well probably keep it another year or two.

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  HIghly Recommend - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By carol - October 27 - 10:20 pm

  This is a great vehicle. Rides very smoothly. Does great in winter weather. Very reliable, just normal maintenance. Only problem - would like to get the same vehicle in a newer model, but hard to justify spending the money when a 7 year old vehicle is still in great shape.

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  Lexus is the best - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By LexusCruiser - October 25 - 12:26 pm

  Researched them all and bought a used RX with 150,000. Confident because its a Lexus. No problems at all. Had several Lexus models LS 430, LX 470 and ES 300, all been rock solid. This RX has same motor as ES, Camry, etc. With AWD gets from 17-24 mpg. Seats nearly as comfortable as my LS 430 due to higher seating position and easy in/out and strong seat heaters. Nice size, ground clearance, visibility, comfort, reliability. Sold on Lexus, cant go wrong.

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  I love my Lexus! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By luv my lexus - October 19 - 3:30 am

  I bought this car used and have had no problems with it at all. I take my RX 300 in regularly for oil changes and thats about it. I currently have 78k on the car now and hope to drive it for another 100 thousand miles or more! I would recommend this car used over many other brand new makes and models. Although my vehicle is almost 7 years old now, I trust its reliability 100%.

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  Love it....but it has ISSUES!!!!! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By 14ktlady - October 8 - 11:40 pm

  I love driving it in the winter, I had some problems in the beginning, but the recall took care of the oil clumping problem at Lexuss expense. They also fixed the sensors but, the oxygen still causes the engine light to come on.

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  Shame on you Toyota (Lexus) - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Steve - October 5 - 11:06 am

  I purchased my Lexus RX300 when it was 1 year old and I knew the previous owner (engineer very good at maintaining). I have been pretty good abut keeping up with oil changes etc., and I have spent more money on this car than any car Ive owned previously (Toyota or otherwise). First it was engine sludge and last month it was a new transmission. I now again have an emerging engine sludge problem and Lexus is again claiming no responsibility. I buy new and drive my cars forever, but my Lexus at 98,000 miles is the worst purchase Ive ever made. I will not be buying a Toyota ever again.

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  6 years later and still loving my RX-300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Louis in Fairfax, VA - September 30 - 11:30 pm

  Justed changed by rear tail-light on my 2003 RX-300 and got to thinking that besides a set of tires and oil changes I havent had to do anything to this truck. It still rides like a new car and Im getting 17 MPG in town and 26 on the road. What more could you want from a car. My dealer is great for normal service (but high priced, I guess they all are) but I always drive off with a job well done. Might go for a 2010, but it would take a lot to get me out of this model, and have car payments all over again!

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  reliable Japanese car - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By concord lexus - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Pretty good car. Still trying to get use to poor design of radio/climage control. Quality of paint is not nearly as good as European cars.

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  Candys corner - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By candys corner - August 30 - 10:00 am

  If your looking for style comfort and reliability look no further. This small but handsome SUV will not hold a soccer team however will make it to every game on time and in style. Drivers visibility and road feel is awesome, would you expect anything less from a Lexus?