2000 Lexus RX 300: Road Test
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2000 Lexus RX 300 ▼
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- MSRP: $33,005 -$34,605
- Invoice: $28,668 -$30,058
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Our road test for the 2000 Lexus RX 300 includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Lexus RX 300 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Lexus RX 300, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Lexus RX 300 help you decide if a 2000 Lexus RX 300 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
The front-wheel-drive RX is snappy off the line--we clocked one at a brisk 8.2 seconds 0-60 mph. The slightly heavier 4WD version does almost as well, and both have good midrange passing power. Transmission behavior is admirable.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3.6 |
Between two 4WD models we averaged 16.3 mpg, just slightly better than the midsize 4WD-SUV norm. A front-drive model returned 19.2 mpg with more highway driving.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.7 |
Absorbent and smooth on most any surface, and noticeably more comfortable than most any other SUV--including Mercedes' toney but still truck-flavored M-Class.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 3.6 |
Only mild body lean in tight, fast turns, but the RX is too big and heavy to be a sporty handler. Call it competent and predictable.
QUIETNESS
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.6 |
Some tire noise comes through on coarse pavement, but the RX is pleasingly quiet overall, although opening the moonroof at highway speeds produces lots of wind roar.
CONTROLS
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Mostly attractive, functional, and clear, but it takes time to sort out the central video-screen climate and audio controls, whose display washes out depending on light conditions.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.9 |
A low step-in and wide doors make entry/exit a breeze, and there's plenty of room on the comfortable bucket seats. Clever center console bins keep lots of small stuff close at hand.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.3 |
Three adults can ride without complaint, and the middle position matches the comfort of the supportive outboard seats. Narrow door bottoms impede aft entry/exit a bit.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.5 |
Rear-seat conversion is convenient, but the load deck isn't that long with the seat up, and liftover is relatively high even on the 2WD version. Total load volume is about par for a midsize SUV.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 3.8 |
More "suburban utility vehicle" than traditional SUV, the RX 300 is posh, refined, roomy, and pleasant to drive. The main drawback to this Best Buy is that discounts are nearly nonexistent in the face of justifiably strong demand.
Total Score
| Base 2WD | Base 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | 61 | 46.4 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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