Lexus RX 350 2024 Expert Review
Design and Build Quality
Exterior Design
The 2024 RX 350 boasts a bold and modern exterior design. The signature spindle grille, sharp LED headlights, and sleek lines give it a dynamic and elegant look. The SUV’s aerodynamic profile not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
Color Options
Lexus offers the RX 350 in a range of sophisticated color options, including:
- Ultra White
- Atomic Silver
- Caviar
- Nebula Gray Pearl
- Matador Red Mica
These color choices allow buyers to personalize their vehicle to match their style preferences.
Interior Design and Comfort
The interior of the RX 350 is a blend of luxury and functionality. High-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood accents, create a premium atmosphere. The seats are designed for maximum comfort, with ample support and adjustability. The spacious cabin provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long trips.
Engine and Performance
Engine Specifications
Under the hood, the 2024 RX 350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine ensures robust performance, whether you’re accelerating on the highway or navigating city streets.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The RX 350 is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The SUV comes with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its powerful engine, the RX 350 offers respectable fuel efficiency. The front-wheel-drive model achieves an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive version offers slightly lower figures. This balance of power and efficiency makes the RX 350 a practical choice for luxury SUV buyers.
Handling and Ride Quality
Suspension System
The 2024 RX 350 features a sophisticated suspension system that balances comfort and control. The front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear features a double-wishbone design. This setup ensures a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads.
Braking Performance
The SUV is equipped with a robust braking system, including ventilated disc brakes at both the front and rear. The brakes provide reliable stopping power, enhancing safety and confidence while driving.
Driving Experience
The RX 350 offers a refined and engaging driving experience. The responsive steering, powerful engine, and well-tuned suspension make it enjoyable to drive in various conditions. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating winding roads, the RX 350 delivers a balanced and controlled performance.
Technology and Features
Infotainment System
The 2024 RX 350 comes with an advanced infotainment system that includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The user-friendly interface and high-quality sound system enhance the overall driving experience.
Safety Features
Lexus prioritizes safety, and the RX 350 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 (Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control)
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Headlights
- Surround-View Camera
These features provide peace of mind and help prevent accidents, making the RX 350 a secure choice for families and individuals alike.
Pricing and Value for Money
Price Comparison
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is priced competitively within the luxury SUV segment, starting at approximately $48,000 for the base model. This price reflects its high-quality construction, advanced features, and luxurious interior, making it a strong contender against rivals such as the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Ownership Costs
Ownership costs for the RX 350 include regular maintenance, fuel, and insurance. Lexus vehicles are known for their reliability and low maintenance requirements, which can translate to lower long-term ownership costs. Additionally, the brand’s strong resale value helps retain the vehicle’s worth over time.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Real-World Experiences
Owners of the 2024 RX 350 often praise its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced safety features. Many appreciate the SUV’s reliability and strong resale value. However, some users note that the infotainment interface can be challenging to use, and the cargo space may be limited for larger families.
Common Praises and Criticisms
Common praises include:
- High-quality interior materials.
- Smooth and comfortable ride.
- Strong safety features.
Common criticisms include:
- Infotainment system usability.
- Cargo space limitations.
- Fuel efficiency compared to rivals.
Maintenance and Reliability
Maintenance Schedule
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping the RX 350 in top condition. Lexus provides a detailed maintenance schedule that includes oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and more. Following this schedule helps ensure the vehicle remains reliable and performs optimally.
Longevity and Durability
Lexus vehicles are known for their longevity and durability. With proper care and maintenance, the RX 350 can provide many years of reliable service. Its robust construction and high-quality components contribute to its reputation for durability.
Pros of the Lexus RX 350 2024
- Luxurious Interior: High-quality materials and comfortable seating.
- Advanced Safety Features: Comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
- Powerful Engine: Strong performance with a V6 engine.
- Smooth Ride: Well-tuned suspension system.
- Good Resale Value: Strong resale value and reliability.
Cons of the Lexus RX 350 2024
- Infotainment Interface: Some users find the touchpad controller less intuitive.
- Limited Cargo Space: Less cargo space compared to some rivals.
- Fuel Efficiency: Not the most fuel-efficient in its class.
Overview
The 2024 Lexus RX is the brand’s five-passenger midsize SUV. It’s bigger and roomier than the NX but smaller than the three-row LX and new TX SUVs. There are now four versions of the RX: the base RX 350, the hybrid RX 350h, the new plug-in hybrid RX 450h+ and a performance-oriented hybrid, the RX 500h. Overall, you’ll certainly like this SUV if comfort and refinement are priorities. Lexus redesigned the RX just last year, improving the way it drives. Inside, the much-maligned infotainment system is gone, replaced by a large and easy-to-use touchscreen that puts it on par with the RX’s closest competitors. The interior design has also been updated to match but has lost none of the quality look and feel you expect from a Lexus.
