The RX began life as Lexus' first ever SUV, debuting back in 1998, and also spawned the RX 400h (now the RX 450h), the world's first luxury hybrid SUV, in 2005. The vehicle also carries the distinction of being the first Lexus model to be built outside of Japan when production started in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada, in 2003.
Completely redesigned not long ago, the third-generation RX 350 receives a minor cosmetic and trim level update for the latest model year while continuing to build on the feature set of its predecessors.
Keeping in line with Lexus’ latest design language, the latest RX arrives with a new front end inspired by the GS sedan. Lexus’ signature hourglass-shaped grille is front and center, flanked by new headlights with a line of LEDs. A so-called “Aero Bumper” will also be on offer, giving the RX a decidedly aggressive look.
The RX is essentially unchanged in profile, but the crossover does sport a revised rear-end. A slightly re-worked bumper is part of the new package, as is a license plate area shaped to mimic the car’s front grille shape. The RX’s interior largely carries over, although a new steering wheel is on tap.
Power continues to come from a 3.5-liter V6 offering 275 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 257 pound-feet of torque at 4700 rpm. Fuel economy is estimated at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel drive model, and drops to 24 highway for the all-wheel drive model.
The all-wheel-drive version features an Active Torque Control AWD system that optimizes torque depending on driving conditions, resulting in improved efficiency and performance.
RX 350 F Sport
For the most part, the RX 350 in general has carried over bits and pieces, especially inside, from the outgoing model, but there are several unique upgrades to the F Sport edition. Changes include perforated black leather-trimmed seats with white perforation holes and white contrast stitching on the seats, center console and door armrests. There is also a new Ebony Bird’s Eye Maple trim, a black headliner, a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel showcasing the “F” logo, and aluminum pedals.
For the exterior, styling changes include a sportier front bumper with F Sport mesh with the upper edge of the grille set lower than the upper edge of the headlamp assembly in an attempt to deliver a more aggressive look. The standard LED daytime running lights and combination rear lamps reflect the “L” design motif.
Under the Skin
The crossover also features a new, uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension that helps provide exceptional agility and control. Its distinctive design also allows for five percent more cargo volume and easier loading. To complement the new rear suspension and provide excellent dexterity and ride comfort, the front McPherson strut geometry was optimized.
The new RX has a long list of high-tech gadgets, including an available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system, featuring an all-new "Remote Touch" controller. Positioned on the center console, Remote Touch is comparable to a computer mouse.
While RX features voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM satellite-radio capability is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.
The new RX is available with a selection of option packages, which include features like a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, dynamic radar cruise control, and a Sports Package featuring a sport-tuned suspension.
The latest RX offers a wide-angle side view monitor. With a camera located under the passenger side-view mirror, the driver can check hard-to-view areas on the passenger side of the vehicle by simply selecting a button on the navigation screen or the steering wheel and view the camera image on the navigation screen.
Occupant Safety
The RX 350 comes standard with a class-leading ten airbags, including dual front, front side, rear side, front knee, front side and rear side airbags. Other safety features include traction and stability control systems and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
Key Competitors
The main rivals to the RX 350 include the Cadillac SRX, the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. The Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLK350 also merit consideration from prospective RX 350 owners.