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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  1999 Lexus RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By EAC - February 5 - 3:36 am

  Great SUV. No Major problems besides an oxygen sensor needing replacement. Acceleration is not great and fuel economy is not great either. Fuel consumption got worse when I bought new tires. Only dislike is that servicing is expensive and dealership cuts no breaks even for long time customer like me.

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  Lexus RX review - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By aanderson - February 4 - 10:00 am

  My vehicle has not been as dependable as I thought a Lexus would be. However, it is a quality vehicle but costly to keep maintained.

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  Solid 4 Season Vehicle - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By bmicak - January 27 - 10:00 am

  Excellent handling in snow and ice without having to shift into 4WD. Good power and acceleration for a heavy vehicle. Very Comfortable with a resonable amount of room. Good balance of size, power and economy to run. Vehicle is well thought out and a pleasure to drive.

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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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  Too new to really know, hope 4 best - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Diana - November 15 - 8:13 pm

  Everyone is really impressed with the Lexus. I had originally planned to trade my 2001 RAV4 for an 05 with several upgrades, but by the time it was all added up (and a few combos of features that I didnt care about added on) it was up to $27,000 +. So I asked about a similarly priced used SUV. Thats how I got the Lexus RX300 and it has a better warranty than the new RAV4 would. I do miss the sporty ride of the RAV4 5 speed, and center console of the RX300 is unduly complicated. My coffee mug and water bottle tend to tip in the cupholders. The body side molding on the RAV4 is perfectly positioned to catch any door dings. It doesnt look like the RX300 is. Dorschels great dealership!

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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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  Certified Quality - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Brooklyn - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought certified 00 RX300 AWD, premium package, 47k mi. Looks, drives, feels like new. Body style virtually the same from 2000- 2003. Shopped around for months-- Acura MDX, Infinit QX4, BMW X5, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Range Rover Discovery. Lexus probably least "true SUV" of the bunch, but it provides me with what I really NEED (AWD, safety, reliability, quality) and WANT (smooth drive, top notch amenities). Dont plan to take my luxury SUV offroad... Id buy a Jeep for that. This is a luxury vehicle that is capable of hauling 5 adults and cargo comfortably in any weather (rain, snow, shine). Its not for rock climbing, trail riding, etc.

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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