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Summary
We give an enthusiastic thumbs up to the Lexus RX 300. Its excellent handling and exceptional traction on slippery surfaces make it a perfect luxury vehicle for people who drive on snow-covered or unpaved roads. RX 300 provides almost as much cargo space as a Jeep Grand Cherokee, but boasts vastly superior ride and handling. Inside it looks, feels and drives like a luxury sport sedan. However, the RX 300 may not be the ultimate off-road vehicle, nor the brawniest in towing capability. But most people don't drive off road anyway. For that reason, the RX 300 heralds one of the directions SUVs are headed.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Engines:
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Transmissions:
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4-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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Dual airbags |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Kyusho, Japan |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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RX 300 4WD |
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Standard Equipment:
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ABS, climate control, AM/FM/CD stereo, power windows, mirrors and locks, cruise control, rear intermittent wiper, auto on/off headlamps, heated mirrors, power seats |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Leather trim package ($1,280) |
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Destination Charge:
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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37355 |
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Layout:
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four-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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220 @ 5800 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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222 @ 4400 |
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Transmission:
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4-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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19/22 |
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Wheelbase:
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103.0 |
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Length/width/height:
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180.1/71.5/65.7 |
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Track, f/r:
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61.6/61.0 |
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Turning circle:
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41.4 |
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Seating capacity:
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5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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38.1/55.2/40.7 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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38.6/55.2/36.4 |
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Cargo volume:
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75.0 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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3500 |
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Suspension, f:
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Independent |
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Suspension, r:
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Independent |
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Ground clearance:
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Curb weight:
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3900 |
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Tires:
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P225/70SR-16 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc |
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Fuel capacity:
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17.2 |
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