Should I Buy A 02/03 Rx 300?

[My 1st SUV]

Greetings from West Coast Canada.

My wife is planning to sell her sedan and trade up to a compact SUV.

We were looking at both the new Toyota RAV4 (I'm a long time Toyota owner) and the new Honda CRV-EXL. The RAV4 4 cyclinder was just not enough power and the V6 was a bit too much for her.

Although the RX330 is too long for her, the RX300 is just the right length and of course more luxurious.

We are debating whether to buy a new RAV4/CRV or a used RX300. I figure the budget is about the same for a 2002 or 2003 RX300. She plans to keep the SUV for a long time. I've been reading Montalvo's thread and I got a lot of useful info from there, the exception is that he is comparing a brand new Hylander to a new RX350 (two different budgets altogether)

Some points we are considering are warranty, life expectancy, and future repair/maintenance cost differences between RAV4 and RX300. My guess is that there is not too much difference as both are built in Japan by the same mother company.

I'm guessing that as the 3 or 4 year leases come up this year and next year, there should be more choice and better pricing on the 02/03.

Finally is it worth getting a certified lexus. What is the extra cost compared to a non certified one.

Any comments would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Benjamin Tang]

my aunt just went through this dilemma... used 03 rx300 premium with factory extended warranty until 2010, or lease a brand new rav4 v6.

she went with the rav4, and i have to grudgingly admit it's pretty nice, and it's faster/stronger than our rx300. shame about the rear cargo door however...try closing that thing parked facing uphill with the spare tire hanging off it

[tmastres]

It comes down to do ou want something thats going to be quieter, smoother & more comfortable or something a little hipper and sportier and perhaps faster/lighter. I think the RAV 4 is obviuosly built and marketed to a younger crowd who dont care as much about comfort and features ( I know I didnt) and the RX is aimed at more mature buyers who don't need to beat everyone off the light and who's idea of driving enjoyment is cruising in comfort but still being able to haul 4 people with all related cargo.