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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  One good SUV - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By RX - May 4 - 10:00 am

  Very comfortable(U know just like Lexus sedan), very stable on hwy. Very reliable, no visit to the dealer for the recall or problem. Very usefull for cargo.

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  Very Disappointed - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By kristal1 - April 10 - 8:27 pm

  Bought the Lexus Rx 300 because of Lexus reputation of being a reliable vehicle, sadly disappointed with our experience. We bought this car 5 years ago with 48K miles on it and hoped to drive it over 200K miles. Unforunately at 100K miles the car had a steering column failure, the worst the dealer had ever seen. Car was unsafe to drive. Cost of repairs $1,700. Less than 12 months later at 112K miles the engine went. Expected cost to replace $5,000 for a used engine, significantly more for a new one. Never expected this from Lexus! at 112K miles... are you kidding me. Should have read reviews before buying it.

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  Unmatched Quality and Reliabililty - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Bison72 - April 5 - 9:13 am

  This by far is the most reliable car I have ever owned. Oil changes, tires and brakes only. The style, quiet ride and care-free maintenance has converted me to a Lexus fan for life! I keep wanting to buy a newer Lexus model but cannot justify getting rid of this SUV when it still runs and looks like new. My friends are shocked when they learn it is 8 years old and approaching 90k miles.

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  Gorgeous "SUV" - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By suziqoozy - March 30 - 2:00 am

  I love my Rx300. I feel like I am sitting in my living room when I drive it. Its so comfy and the ride is outstanding.

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  RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By drrice - March 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my favorite car I have owned. It rides like a Lexus sedan, but goes in the snow without a problem. Great traction in the rain as well.

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  First Lexus - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By Gerard84 - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I bought an rx300 in sept. of 2003. So far i havnt had any problems or concerns, suv is still in same shape as I bought it in. A couple days later i was on a highway and the skid controld has saved me from plowing through an off ramp. I guess I was just going to fast without realizing it (engine is very quiet)and the wheels that skid braked to control the car. Im thankful for an great safty feature. This suv is well worth the money.

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  Not quite the quality I expected - 2001 Lexus RX 300
  By LLRinCO - March 19 - 9:20 am

  For a fairly new Lexus, mine had some little quirks - squeaking by the back seat, radio speakers working intermitently, twice it did not start the first time I turned the key. Other then that a nice vehicle, great in snow, navigation well worth it.

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  Caros 99 Lexus RX 300 - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By caro - March 18 - 2:13 pm

  This is a great vehicle if youre looking for a "tall car". It is the size of a sedan, just higher off the ground. One major design flaw which I understand has been fixed, if the rear windows are down but the front arent, there is a horrible wind-suction noise. Other than that, it is a smooth, luxury ride. Very nice interior leather, comfortable seats and a nice car to drive around town and short distances. Wouldnt recommend for a long drive, particularly if youre stuck in the back seats. Low maintenance, in my experience.

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  18 years - 1999 Lexus RX 300
  By Fran Prestia - March 17 - 3:06 am

  This was my dream car. I owned her for 18 years with little or no problems. Loved the car, loved the color drove to Florida to upper Wisconsin to North Carolina and everyday driving. she is still great.

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  Love My New 2003 RX - Good Price - 2003 Lexus RX 300
  By whizf16 - March 10 - 2:00 am

  Have driven my new 2003 RX only 1000 miles since purchase (11/02), but LOVE it! Its a better ride than any car Ive ever had and just looks great. Super service at the dealership (including a very good salesman). Ive hauled big things with the rear seats up and down and Im impressed with the room. Plentiful power, sure steering, and a quiet ride make this car a winner.