sleepybobcat

While waiting for the 10k-service yesterday, I spotted
a Silversport-edition '01 RX300 on the lot. Got to test
drive it for about 15 miles... I had originally thought
about getting the SS-edition's supension(springs/
shocks) installed on my regular '01 RX300, but not
anymore. The handling was only slightly better, if
noticeble at all.

Cosmetically, I do not really like the aluminum-color
interior trim, compared to the wood trim in my RX300,
which also has wood steering wheel. The black leather
interior is the same as mine. HOWEVER, I love the
new perforated leather seats! They cool down quicker
and sweat evaporate faster.(it was in the hot, humid
90s when I was test-driving it) Hmmm.... how much
would it cost to put those in my RX300?($$$$$)

The front grill doesn't look that bad from a distance,
but when I was stading in front of it, I don't really
think it looks that nice. They should have used more
shinny material. However, this will depend on personal
taste. I'm sure it can be retro-fitted to current RX300s.

The silver painted roof rack look kind of cheesy, because
the knbos are still in black plastic. It also didn't match
well with the black exterior on the SS-edition I drove.
On a silver-color SS-edition, it will probabaly look cool.

The tires are the same as on my '01 RX300 w/Nav-
package. They are Bridgeston Duelers...

Last, but not least, the matching lower body paing
makes the black SS-edition look really nice. It gives it
a very mean look. Can't say the same about a
silver-color SS-edition. I've seen someone's '01 RX300
with the lower panels painted to match body color.
(millenium silver) I almost thought it was a MB ML320...

My advice, as usual, is to test drive it and take a hard
look before making any purchase.(especially when you
are about to spend to 40 grand) The SS-edition is a
nice way to have a distinctive RX300, if it suits your
own personal preference.

Bob "Sleepybobcat"

LexRX

sleepybobcat, while I have yet to drive an SS, I did look at one the other day while at the dealership. I have the same thoughts as you...the brushed aluminum is nice, but the wood is much better, and while the single color is also distinctive, i like mine two-tone. Also, I really didn't like the painted roof rack, I thought is was going to actually be brushed aluminum too, but no...just paint...cheesy - yes. I like the black better. Imagine the paint chips.

The black looks good, but don't care for the silver.

But, yes, it is a personal opinion. Still a cool suv though.