A Deep Dive Into the Stunning, Redesigned Lexus RX 350

The Lexus RX has long been a benchmark for luxury crossover SUVs, and its latest iteration is generating significant buzz. You’ve likely heard about the “all-new” Lexus RX 350 and are curious to see if it lives up to the hype. Let’s explore exactly what makes this redesigned model so stunning and why it’s turning heads everywhere.

A Revolutionary Exterior Design

The most immediate and striking change in the new Lexus RX 350 is its exterior. Lexus has moved beyond its signature “spindle grille” to a new design philosophy called the “spindle body.” This creates a more integrated and seamless look where the grille flows into the bodywork, giving the front end a powerful and futuristic appearance.

The new design isn’t just about the grille. The headlights are sharper and more jewel-like, incorporating Lexus’s signature L-shaped daytime running lights for an unmistakable presence on the road. The body panels feature crisp lines and subtle curves that play with light and shadow, making the vehicle look athletic and elegant at the same time.

One of the most praised design elements is the “floating roof” effect. By blacking out the rear pillar (the C-pillar), Lexus designers have created the illusion that the roof is suspended above the body. This is complemented by a full-width LED light bar across the rear, which spells out the “L E X U S” name instead of using the traditional “L” logo, a modern touch seen across the brand’s new lineup.

An Interior Crafted for Comfort and Control

Stepping inside the RX 350 reveals a cabin that is just as impressive as the exterior. Lexus has implemented its Tazuna cockpit design philosophy, a Japanese term for the reins of a horse. The concept is to create a direct, intuitive connection between the driver and the vehicle. All essential controls, from the touchscreen to the steering wheel buttons, are placed within easy reach, minimizing distractions and allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road.

The centerpiece of the dashboard is the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It’s available with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen, but many models feature the stunning, optional 14-inch high-definition display. This system is a massive leap forward from previous Lexus interfaces, offering:

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamlessly connect your smartphone without plugging it in.
  • “Hey Lexus” Voice Assistant: Control navigation, audio, and climate functions with natural voice commands.
  • Cloud-Based Navigation: Provides real-time traffic updates and points of interest.
  • User Profiles: Allows different drivers to save their personal settings for audio, climate, and vehicle preferences.

The material quality is exceptional, as expected from Lexus. Even the base models feature high-quality materials like NuLuxe synthetic leather that is both durable and luxurious. Higher trims offer genuine leather, open-pore wood trim, and intricate ambient lighting with a wide array of color choices to set the perfect mood for any drive.

Performance That Balances Power and Refinement

The “350” in RX 350 no longer signifies a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The all-new model is powered by a sophisticated and efficient 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This modern powertrain produces 275 horsepower and a robust 317 lb-ft of torque. This is more torque than the old V6, and it’s available at lower engine speeds, which means the RX 350 feels responsive and quick when accelerating from a stop or merging onto the highway.

This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose between standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or an available all-wheel drive (AWD) system for enhanced traction in various weather conditions. Despite its potent performance, the new engine also delivers improved fuel economy compared to its predecessor, making it a smart choice for daily driving.

For those seeking even greater performance or efficiency, the broader RX family includes hybrid and performance-oriented models like the RX 350h, the RX 500h F SPORT Performance, and the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

A core part of the luxury experience is peace of mind, and the new RX 350 delivers with the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This is one of the most comprehensive suites of safety features available on the market. It uses a sophisticated system of cameras and radar to help protect you and your passengers. Key features include:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists and provide alerts or even apply the brakes to help avoid a collision. It now includes Intersection Support to help prevent accidents when making a turn.
  • All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, capable of working in stop-and-go traffic. It also features Curve Speed Management, which can subtly slow the vehicle for upcoming bends in the road.
  • Lane Tracing Assist: Provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns you if you begin to drift out of your lane and can provide corrective steering.
  • Road Sign Assist: Uses a camera to recognize certain road signs, like speed limits, and displays them on the instrument panel.

These systems work together to reduce driver fatigue and provide an extra layer of security on every journey, making the RX 350 not just stunning to look at, but also incredibly safe to drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main competitors for the Lexus RX 350? The Lexus RX 350 competes in the popular midsize luxury SUV segment. Its primary rivals include the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, and Volvo XC90.

What is the starting price of the new Lexus RX 350? Pricing can vary based on trim level, options, and location. Generally, the starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for a base model RX 350 begins in the high $40,000s, with higher trims and all-wheel drive models increasing from there.

Is the new RX 350 available as a three-row SUV? No, the redesigned fifth-generation Lexus RX is exclusively a two-row, five-seat SUV. Lexus now offers the larger TX model for buyers who need a three-row luxury SUV.