When it comes to luxury SUVs, the Lexus RX 350 stands out as a symbol of refinement, reliability, and sophistication. This midsize crossover has been a staple in the luxury SUV market for years, blending performance, comfort, and advanced technology in a package that appeals to families and individuals alike. But does it truly live up to its reputation as the best luxury SUV for your family? In this Lexus RX 350 review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, safety, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next family vehicle.
Lexus RX 350 Overview
The Lexus RX 350 is a luxury midsize SUV that combines a stylish exterior with a plush, high-tech interior. Known for its smooth ride and impeccable build quality, the RX 350 has been a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable family vehicle. The latest model offers a host of upgrades, from improved safety features to enhanced technology, making it more appealing than ever.
Key Features:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower.
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic.
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7 passengers with the available third-row seats.
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
- Starting Price: Around $48,000.
Exterior Design and Styling
One glance at the Lexus RX 350, and it’s clear that this is a vehicle designed to turn heads. The bold spindle grille, sleek LED headlights, and sculpted body lines give it a distinctive look that’s both aggressive and elegant. The sharp angles and smooth curves are not just for aesthetics—they also contribute to the vehicle’s aerodynamics and overall efficiency.
The RX 350 is available in several trims, including the sporty F Sport, which adds a touch of athleticism with unique styling elements and performance upgrades. Each trim level offers a range of exterior color options and wheel designs, allowing buyers to personalize the SUV to their liking.
Exterior Highlights:
- Spindle Grille: A signature Lexus design element that gives the RX 350 a bold, unmistakable front-end presence.
- LED Lighting: Standard LED headlights and taillights, with available triple-beam LED headlights for enhanced visibility.
- Sporty F Sport Package: Adds unique styling cues such as a mesh grille, 20-inch wheels, and adaptive variable suspension.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Lexus RX 350, and you’ll find an interior that exudes luxury and comfort. High-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a thoughtful layout create a serene and inviting cabin environment. The seats are plush and supportive, making long drives a pleasure, while the available third row in the RX 350L variant adds versatility for larger families.
The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen display, available in both 8-inch and 12.3-inch sizes, which controls the infotainment system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa are standard, providing seamless connectivity and entertainment options.
Interior Features:
- Premium Seating: Available semi-aniline leather seats with heating and ventilation for ultimate comfort.
- Advanced Infotainment System: A user-friendly interface with a large touchscreen, navigation, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system option.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Available panoramic glass roof for an airy, open cabin feel.
Pros:
- Spacious and quiet cabin with premium materials.
- Intuitive infotainment system with multiple connectivity options.
- Ample cargo space, especially in the RX 350L with the third-row option.
Cons:
- The third-row seats in the RX 350L are best suited for children.
- Touchpad controller for the infotainment system can be tricky to use while driving.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Lexus RX 350 is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive shifts. The RX 350 provides a comfortable and composed ride, with its suspension tuned for a balance between handling agility and ride comfort.
For those looking for a bit more excitement, the F Sport model includes a sport-tuned suspension and more aggressive styling, making it more engaging to drive on twisty roads. The RX 350 comes standard with front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel-drive system is available for added confidence in poor weather conditions.
Performance Highlights:
- Smooth V6 Engine: Delivers ample power for highway cruising and passing maneuvers.
- Quiet Ride: The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, providing a serene driving experience.
- Sporty Handling: The F Sport package adds adaptive variable suspension for more dynamic driving.
Pros:
- Smooth and refined driving experience.
- Confident handling with the F Sport package.
- Optional all-wheel drive for added traction.
Cons:
- Not as sporty as some competitors in the segment.
- Fuel efficiency is average for its class.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for families, and the Lexus RX 350 excels in this area with a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features. The SUV is equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which includes:
- Pre-Collision System: Detects vehicles and pedestrians, helping to reduce the likelihood of frontal collisions.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the sides when reversing.
The RX 350 has earned high marks in crash tests, receiving a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Pros:
- Extensive list of standard safety features.
- Excellent crash test ratings.
- Available 360-degree camera for added visibility.
Cons:
- Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims.
- The adaptive cruise control can be overly sensitive.
Is the Lexus RX 350 the Best Luxury SUV for Your Family?
The Lexus RX 350 offers a compelling blend of luxury, comfort, and safety, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a reliable and stylish SUV. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and reputation for reliability are significant selling points. While it may not be the most dynamic SUV in its class, it more than makes up for this with its serene ride quality and upscale cabin.
For those who prioritize a quiet, comfortable driving experience and a luxurious interior, the RX 350 is a top contender. However, if you’re looking for a more engaging driving experience or need more third-row space, you might want to explore other options in the segment.
Pros:
- Luxurious and well-appointed interior.
- Strong safety ratings and features.
- Reliable performance and smooth ride.
Cons:
- Third-row seats in the RX 350L are cramped.
- Infotainment system interface could be improved.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lexus RX 350 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that checks many boxes for families looking for a stylish and reliable vehicle. Its combination of a comfortable ride, upscale interior, and extensive safety features make it a solid choice in the luxury SUV market. While it may not be the sportiest option, its blend of luxury and practicality ensures that it remains a popular choice among discerning buyers. If you’re seeking a luxurious family SUV that offers peace of mind and an enjoyable driving experience, the Lexus RX 350 is definitely worth considering.
