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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  Hard to beat! - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By - April 24 - 10:00 am

  I needed an SUV for work but wanted to drive a luxury car. The RX300 does both extremely well. Smooth, quiet perfection.

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  MY GOLD BABY - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By lilshelly - April 24 - 2:39 am

  I enjoy my RX300 LEXus SUV the ride is comfortable and easy the maintance is affordable and the service professionals at my lexus dealer are knowledge and helpful. I will be buying a another LEXUS vehicle soon

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  Great buy no regrets - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By wv - April 14 - 10:06 pm

  Bought our rx300 new in 2002 and loved it ever since. Absolutely no problems after 130k miles. Love to drive it, comfortable ride and extremely comfortable seats even after long trips. A definite Lexus/Toyota owner for life. Great job Lexus!!!

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  Lexus Automobiles Forever - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Bill - April 11 - 8:40 am

  I personally have owned over 10 new cars over the years, and I, without hesitation, say that the Lexus, especially the SUVs, are the most dependable, beautifully designed automobile throughout the industry. The ride, comfort, gas mileage, and convenience, make this car the best... nothing more... only the best of the best. I own a 2001 RX 300, bought by me brand new, and I must admit it rides just as great today as when I first drove it out of the showroom I sincerely advise those who have not experienced its ride and everything else I have mentioned, please do it and take a test drive. I believe once you do, you will be hooked on nothing else. I happen to favor its SUVs.

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  Horrible engines, do not buy! - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By winburnj - April 5 - 6:40 am

  All I can say is do your homework! Just after I rolled over 100,00 miles my engine threw a rod and now I am getting another engine put in. I ran a full synthetic oil for 22000 miles and did not think that Lexus would have problems like this with this mileage. All I can say is before you buy do your research on Lexus oil gel/sludge.

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  Best Car I Ever Had - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Karpierz - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I have owned and operated many cars in my life time and found that this Lexus to be the most comfortable smooth riding and easy handling vehicle I have ever owned. Rides like a car, feels like a big SUV, plenty of room in rear for loading and unloading camping gear, groceries, etc.

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  Great Ride - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By sharr - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I have absolutely loved my RX300! From the day I purchased it, it has been fuel efficient, reliable,always comfortable. I am buying the new RX330 because I have loved my vehicle so much. I am on the road all in high end sales. Taking my customers out with me has converted many into Lexus drivers. At this point I would not consider any other type of vehicle. The Lexus dealer has also made me feel like a very pampered customer!

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  160,000 and still going strong - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By tstutz - March 19 - 9:06 am

  I bought this vehicle used with 120k miles. Aside from oil changes and new tires, Ive only had to replace the belts. Ive put 40k miles on it over the past 2 years. If you jumped in and drove the vehicle without looking at the odometer, youd never know it had 160k miles. The ride is still comfortable and the engine runs strong. My Lexus has been good to me so far.

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  Smart Choice - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Lexus guy - March 15 - 5:00 pm

  Downsized from an LS 430 and love both cars. Seats just as comfortable with just the right height and strong seat heaters. Good stereo/CD. Mileage ranges from 17-18 running errands to 23-24 on the flat highway. Great car for realtor/inspector and practical for bad weather, bad roads. Keep oil/trans fluids changed though. I switched to K&N filter and 0/30 Mobil-One oil and get 1-3 better MPG. Mine has 161,000 and looks/runs like new.

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  cool suv for females - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By shiny s varghese - March 12 - 10:00 am

  before i bought the rx 300 i drove the bmw x5 and acura mdx, they both had very bumpy ride and truck type.