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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  Will not buy another RX - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By DROBB - November 14 - 3:46 pm

  We bought our RX used, with very low mileage. After having owned 5 trouble free Toyotas, we were shocked when the transmission of our well maintained RX failed at 80K miles. It was an expensive and very time consuming repair, as the parts were very hard to locate. We still are not happy with how the transmission hunts for a gear at lower speeds. Cargo space is terrible, interior is a bit cramped and not all that comfortable and the center console and cup holders are poorly designed and flimsy.Turning radius is bad and acceleration could be a lot better. No more RXs for us. EVER!

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  2001 AWD RX300 - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By 2001RX300 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I love my Lexus. Im 21 so I get all sorts of strange looks from older people with the same car. The stereo is loud, really loud, but lacks bass. and one more thing.. for the price differance its way WAY better then a Highlander. Never drove a X5 or a ML series, cant afford so never tried. As for a MDX i didnt like the looks as much as a RX300, i was going for luxury not a off-road vehicle. If its like that i would have got a Yukon or a Durango. But this is my opinion and if you dont agree thats just your taste.

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  2nd Timer - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By NORO - November 4 - 10:00 am

  This is my second RX300 and it just gets better. I leased a 1999 for 39 months and loved it, hated to give it up. So I leased a 2002 and love it even more. It feels more refined and just gets better and better. TRY ONE!!!!!

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  the best! - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By crist22 - October 26 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! Its the best car, fun to drive, very comfortable,I have never have any problems with it, my car has 94000miles and it drives excellent, I would recomend it to anyone who likes the good things in life.

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  Good older SUV - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By krw5 - October 18 - 3:40 am

  I bought this with 167k on it as a "winter beater" three years ago, never thinking that with that many miles it would be as great a vehicle as it is. The only thing thats ever gone wrong is that the ignition coils needed to be replaced. Still gets 20-25mpg, passes California smog with flying colors, looks pretty good for a 14 year old Lexus. It did have the advantage of being a one owner vehicle serviced exclusively by a Lexus dealer (it even has a Lexus brand battery). I change fluids religiously and expect it to go another 100k.

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  03 RX300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By chris029 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  An absolute pleasure to drive this vehicle. Very smooth and quiet. Handles well in all weather conditions. Comfortable and roomy interior. Plenty of space for cargo in the back. One or both seats folds down, a very nice feature. Sound system is superior. Lots of cup holders and other various storage locations which are well hidden when not in use. Overall, a sharp vehicle that is fun to drive.

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  I like It - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By Vel - October 17 - 2:00 am

  Nice styling. Comfy ride. Good handling. Plenty of safety features, luxerious. Also good fuel efficiency for an SUV. Great value. Can be had for less then invoice with the new RX 330s out.

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  Wifes Car - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Pete & Char - October 6 - 10:00 am

  She loves everything about it. He think it should be quieter and have a better ride/handling combo. Dealership experience with the purchace & service is excellent.

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  THE BEST OF THE BEST - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Daddyo - September 29 - 10:00 am

  WE PURCHASED OUR RX300 IN MARCH 02 IT HAS THE BEST PAINT , AND A VERY QUIET RIDE. SEATS ARE VERY COMFORTABLE, AND THE INSIDE IS GREAT. YOU CAN SEE THE QUALITY INSIDE, BEFORE THE BIG L. IN FRONT AND ON THE REAR GO ON. IM 58 I LOVE TO DRIVE AND POLISH IT. AT J.M. LEXUS THEY GO WAY OVERBOARD TO GIVE YOU YHE BEST SERVICE YOU EVER HAD. KUDOS TO (OWNER) JIM MORRAN THE COURTESY MAN FROM CHICAGO, FOR OPENING SUCH A FINE DEALERSHIP.

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  Love it - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By tinkatpow - September 12 - 11:10 am

  I have had my rx300 for a couple years now, and being almost 7 years old now, it still has up to date features and looks, very comfortable, and just a great car/suv. I have two kids now, and were having more, so I have to upsize, and I really dont want to get rid of it.