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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  Fun Utility - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By DESUM - September 3 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a joy to drive compared to the other SUVs I have owned. I drive 15-20K a year in all types of weather and I have complete control in all conditions without having to "shift" into 4-wheel drive.

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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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  Our 2nd Lexus Purchase Was an RX300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Candace - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I like the fact that when I am driving this vehicle, it doesnt feel like Im driving a truck. Its versatile, looks good, and has the reputation that comes with a Lexus vehicle.

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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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  2000 rx300 - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By hn - August 11 - 2:00 am

  great vehicle coming off lease in 3 months. our 2nd lexus. will probably aquire the rx330.

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  alot of trouble - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By a/l - July 22 - 2:00 am

  are wheels of our car needed to be fixed almost right away. we needed them a again. when the engine on and the car is stoped it hurts our ears. although it is a safe car. the dealer dave mungenast lexus of st. louis is a rip off so dont buy there.

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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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  Just loving the car - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By houstonian - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Purchased an extended warranty too but never used. Just did a valve cover gasket change. But over all just love the car. Had no major problems. Has about 90k miles. If you keep the car maintain it will help a lot

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  rx 300 lexus - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By kosudo - June 6 - 5:31 am

  i had transmission probrum 53,000 miles replaced new one after 50,000miles later transmission fell again in right middle of in death valley ca. it was so bad we had to wait 3 hours to toeing truck to arrive.i called lexus on thursday 4-16-20013 they told me get back to me on tuesday on 4-23-20013 still no answer. they told me to wait one more day. i am so angry about whole thing taking such long time to get back to me. i have rental car, have to return.

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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!