SUV Reexamined
Lexus makes the world re-think what it means to be a sport utility vehicle

Why do people buy sport utility vehicles? There can’t be that many weekend warriors out there looking to conquer the world. Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, thinks they have it all figured out with the RX300. Taking the advantages of the SUV (including commanding road presence, roomy interior and rugged feel) while offering improvements in areas that have long dogged this segment (namely poor fuel economy, refinement and sophistication), Lexus has created a truly unique and exceptional automobile.

Telling by the sales figures you can’t argue with their success. One reason is the vehicle’s appearance. Look at the RX300 and you immediately notice the chrome grill and green tint halogen lights. Lexus’ design is at the same time sporty but restrained, giving the SUV an eye-catching, contemporary look.

That translates to a roomy interior. Though not a full size vehicle, the high roofline give a great sense of expansiveness, enough to give four adults room to stretch and relax on trips. Head and legroom is generous, even for back-seat passengers. The standard cargo capacity is nearly 40 cubic feet (75 with the back seats folded down).

Comfort and convenience are important points to consider in a vehicle that has to deal occasionally with a rough-and-tumble environment. Thought not designed to go to the ends of the earth, the optional all wheel traction control system and eight inch ground clearance are enough for most people to get from point A to point B.

Lexus uses a highly modified version of its venerable 3.0 liter V6 engine to power the RX300. Lexus has changed the timing to get more out of the lower end, with most of the torque coming within 2,000 RPM. Still, the RX300 meets the challenges of real world driving with quick response and strong pulling power.

Passenger safety is another important point to Lexus. Standard conveniences include a four wheel, anti-lock braking system, driver and passenger side air bags, a passive anti-theft system, and a remote keyless entry. Side impact door beams round out the safety features.

The RX300’s driver’s seating position gives an excellent vantage point to things both inside and out. Large windows offer good visibility with minimal blind spots, and controls are straightforward and intelligently designed with large buttons and knobs. Many luxury appointments are also available, including leather seating, burled walnut accents, and separate heating and A/C for driver and passenger. The power moonroof is a great touch, as is the electronic center dash instrument cluster that includes an optional navigation system.

Lexus has done a good job in updating the RX300. Since introduced, this vehicle has set the standard in combining a car-like ride and performance with the rough-and-tumble advantages of an SUV. The RX300 is still a great alternative to the traditional idea of a sport utility vehicle.

Chris Taylor is a contributing writer to The Lane Report and an auto enthusiast.

Back to Automotive Index

Back to January Issue

Copyright 1996-2001, by Kentucky Business Online, LLC.  All rights reserved.

Editorial content is copyright 2001, Lane Communications Group
All editorial materials is fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without prior permission. 

Buzzword and the Buzzword balloon are registered trademarks of Buzzword, Inc.  The Lane Report is a trademark of Lane Communications Group.  All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.