HIGHWAY SAFETY RESEARCH & COMMUNICATIONS
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Lexus RX 300

1999-2003 models

MODERATE OVERLAP FRONT TEST

OVERALL EVALUATION: Good

Structure/safety cage Injury measures Restraints/dummy kinematics
Head/neck Chest Leg/foot, left Leg/foot, right
Acceptable Good Good Good Good Good

Important: Frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight.

Good Good Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Poor Poor

Test details:

The Lexus RX 300 was introduced in the 1999 model year.

Restraints/dummy kinematics — Dummy movement was well controlled. After the dummy moved forward into the airbag, it rebounded into the seat without its head coming close to any hard structure that could cause injury.

Injury measures — Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.

Watch crash test footage for this vehicle on YouTube Tested model year and trim level only; see "Tested vehicle specifications" below

Left to right:

  • Action shot taken during the frontal offset crash test.
  • The dummy's position in relation to the steering wheel and instrument panel after the crash test indicates the driver's upper survival space was maintained well, but there was more footwell intrusion than is desirable.
  • A welded seam across the driver footwell was torn open, allowing intrusion into the center of the footwell.
  • During rebound, the dummy's head hit only the head restraint. The design of this restraint is good when it's adjusted to the highest vertical position.

Additional features:

  • Electronic stability control (beginning with 2001 models)
  • Antilock brakes
  • Daytime running lights
  • Side airbags: front seat-mounted torso airbags

Tested vehicle specifications:

  • 1999 Lexus RX 300 4wd
  • Class: Midsize luxury SUV
  • Weight: 3,973 lbs.
  • Side airbags: front seat-mounted torso airbags
  • Wheelbase: 103 in.
  • Length: 180 in.
  • Width: 72 in.
  • Engine: 3.0 L V6
  • EPA ratings: 19 mpg city | 22 mpg highway

See all test results for Lexus RX 300

Last updated: March 29, 2006

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