2001 Lexus RX 300: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This pioneer "crossover" SUV based on the Lexus ES 300/Toyota Camry sedan platform offers front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Standard equipment includes a 3.0-liter V6, automatic transmission, traction control, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and for '01, an antiskid system and emergency-stop brake assist feature. Grille and headlamps are revised, the fuel tank expands by 2.6 gal, an alloy spare wheel replaces steel, and the rear seat gets a center shoulder belt and extra cupholder. Joining a navigation system on the options list is all-black leather interior trim, wood/leather steering wheel, and heated seats with two warmth levels vs. one. Springtime Silversport option includes special trim, sport suspension, sunroof, and other features.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buy is the car-based Lexus RX 300. Though it lacks a low range in 4WD mode, it's the most carlike to drive and offers all of the versatility of a truck-based model.

Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the best-selling Ford Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the Teutonic Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.