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Consumer Test Drive - 1999 Lexus RX 300
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| Overall Rating: |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:56:10 |
| Rating |
 108 ( -7 -6.48% ) | | Author | BRUCE COPLEY |
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Description:
Comfort Rating:
Performance Rating:
Quality Rating:
Appearance Rating:
Favorite Feature:
Engineering--the cross between car & SUV enhance performance, handling, and comfort. The design also gives more cargo capacity than the usual car.
Least Favorite Feature:
The tires--they're car tires without all-season tread. This means that we'll probably have to install snow tires for the winter months.
Advice to Buyer:
Keep your expectations in check. The RX is neither a car or a 'real' SUV. But, it's enough of both--and a lot of both in its features and quality--that most potential buyers will be impressed favorably. Probably not large enough to be a 'family' van.
Detailed Review:
I switched from an Audi A4 Quattro to the RX 300 only to acquire more hauling capacity. Going from a sports sedan like the Audi to an SUV, we were aware of the trade-offs: more room, but less performance & handling. We test drove nearly all of the higher-end SUVs and found that the RX300 offered the best balance in the trade-offs. The RX also allowed us to keep the all-wheel drive traction that we need and want. Even allowing for the quasi-SUV nature of the Lexus, the ride and comfort are absolutely superb. Performance is very good, particularly given the RX's engine size and weight. The RX allows the driver to select 3 different transmission-performance settings: snow, power, and economy. Fuel consumption in economy on the open road is better than most SUV--about 22 MPG (avg speed 75 with AC going strong). Put the switch on 'power' and the performance is better than any other SUV we've driven. Along with MB M-series, handling is best of class.
Also Considered:
1999 Toyota 4Runner
1999 Infiniti QX4
1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320
Vehicle Purchased:
1999 Lexus RX 300
Reviewer Information:
Location - Owings Mills, Maryland |
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