2002 Lexus RX 300: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Navigation-system revisions aimed at greater convenience are the only 2002 change of note to the smaller of Lexus' two SUVs. RX 300 is based on the Lexus ES 300/Toyota Camry sedan platform and is an underskin sibling to the newer Toyota Highlander SUV. Highlander has a 4-inch longer wheelbase but, like the Lexus, seats five. RX 300 offers front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Standard on either version is 3.0-liter V6, automatic transmission, traction control, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system and emergency-stop brake assist feature. For '02 the optional DVD navigation system gets new functions, including multiroute calculation, simplified graphics, and route preview. It also gains a faster computer intended to speed up route processing and map scrolling.

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 Buys are the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander. Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy. If you don't venture off-road too far take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300 as well.