2017 Lexus RX 350

The Lexus RX 350 is outwardly carnivorous, inwardly contemplative- CarAndDriver

The Lexus RX has always been one of the best-selling vehicles in the midsize crossover segment. To say this model is important for Lexus would be an understatement. More standard safety bring some expanded utility and value to the RX 350 this year. Its spacious and luxurious interior offers a generous list of features while the cushy ride quality is its other name. 

If you buy a Lexus RX 350, you will benefit from low ownership costs. Compared to its German rivals, ita maintenance, repair and fuel costs are significantly less. The true cost to own this vehicle is close to $10,600 annually. It costs $0.71 to cover every mile, which is cheaper than its rivals. Moreover, this vehicle has strong reliability over other luxury midsize vehicles. 

Lexus never shies away from technology, and the RX 350 doesn’t deviate from this convention- CarGurus

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 has a starting price of $43,220 for the FWD drivetrain while the AWD models add an extra $1,400. A separate destination charge of $975 is applicable. This SUV comes with niceties such as dual-zone automatic climate control, power front leatherette seats, a dual-pane sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen with an 8-speaker sound system, and many more. The RX 350 is also available with the $6,000 F-Sport package that adds a mesh grille, 20-inch aluminum wheels, leather seats, a 3-spoke sport steering wheel, a few aluminum bits, and F-Sport badging throughout. 

Also, the F-Sport's meaningful upgrade is an adaptive suspension. One of the greatest joy of buying a luxury vehicle splurging on options. On that end, the option sheet includes a 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system with 11.6-inch displays, a panoramic roof, a 360-degree camera, and a super-wide 12.3-inch navigation display controlled by a Lexus' mouse-like remote controller. In view of safety, Lexus has made its Safety Plus package as standard which includes top driver-assist features such as Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, etc.

Trim	Base
MRSP (RWD)	$43,220
MRSP (AWD)	$44,620
Key Features	8-inch touchscreen display
	Power liftgate
	10-way power front seats w/ power lumbar support
	Leatherette upholstery
	8-speaker sound system
	Dual-zone automatic climate control
	SiriusXM
	Dual-pane sunroof

We Recommend

The Lexus RX 350 is a complete package of comfort and technology. The optional Panoramic View Monitor with Blind Spot Monitor package should be on your shopping list as it adds more driver-assist features to the list. We also suggest you go for the Navigation System with Mark Levinson package that adds a navigation system with voice commands, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, and a remote touch navigation controller for $2,770. 

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The RX's V6 is both powerful and impressively smooth- Kelly Blue Book

2017 Lexus RX 350 Engine and Transmission

The Lexus RX 350 continues to come with a 3.5L V6 engine which produces 295 hp and 268 lb-ft. of torque. It is teamed with an 8-speed automatic transmission to send all this power to its wheels. The RX 250 comes standard with an FWD drivetrain while an AWD system is a $1,400 add-on. This engine now features direct injection and variable valve timing. 

In layman terms, this engine can switch between Otto or Atkinson cycle depending on what's most efficient. Lexus is not known for its performance but instead for its smooth and refined engines and the RX 350 continues to carry the legacy. The automatic transmission gets you into the correct gear right away. Paddle shifters are nice but don't really need them. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
MSRP	$43,220	$44,050	$56,600	$52,000
Engine	3.5L V6	3.5L V6	3.0L  Turbo Inline-6	3.5L V6
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	RWD	RWD
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	9-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic
Power	295 hp @ 6,300 RPM	290 hp @ 6,200 RPM	300 hp @ 5,800 RPM	302 hp @ 6,500 RPM
Torque	268 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM	267 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM	300 lb-ft. @ 1,200 RPM	273 lb-ft. @ 3,500 RPM

The BMW X5 makes just 5 horses more than the RX 350 but is the most expensive car in its class. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class also makes more power but these two German rivals are RWD. The Acura MDX develops less power but has an FWD drivetrain like the RX 350. Also, only the X5 houses a turbocharged engine while the rest of the rivals stick to a naturally aspirated engine. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Acceleration

The Lexus RX 350 is not the fastest option in the segment. It takes 6.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-60 MPH while the quarter-mile run is covered in 15.1 seconds. The top speed is limited to 124 MPH. Obviously, these figures are not the best in the segment and it's not bad either. Acceleration is just fine in the RX 350.  

The RX 350 doesn't aim for performance but the power it makes is enough to bring a wide smile to your face. This vehicle really isn't meant to be about speed and there is ample power for what it's intended for. The 8-speed automatic has relatively quick shifts. It constantly seeks top gear for fuel economy. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
0-60 MPH	6.8 sec	6.2 sec	6.5 sec	6.7 sec
Quarter mile	15.1 sec	14.7 sec	15.0 sec	15.0 sec
Engine	3.5L	3.5L	3.0L	3.5L
Top Speed	124 MPH	130 MPH	140 MPH	140 MPH

The light curb weight of the Acura MDX helps to achieve quicker acceleration. The extra power generated by the BMW X5 favors its athletic performance. On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class impresses with its performance despite weighing nearly 400 lbs more than the RX 350. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Ride and Handling

The Lexus RX 350 has never been one of the better handling crossovers. Lexus does want to make it a little sporty with the new generation. A lot of body structure has been reinforced and revised so much that Lexus claims that the RX is no longer related that much to the Highlander. On the plus side, the RX has always been one of the softer riding crossovers and it still is.

Sometimes, the suspension feels a bit stiff but It absorbs the hard bumps and broken patches of the road nicely to offer a cushier ride. Performance-wise, the steering is a little bit numb and vague and that makes it difficult with the lack of feedback to estimate how you should be using the wheel in order to execute any turn. All in all, the RX 350 offers a smooth ride and is a pleasant car to drive. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Braking

The front wheels of the Lexus RX 350 get 13.3-inch ventilated discs while smaller 12.9-inch ventilated discs are fitted to the rear wheels. These brakes help this 4,222-pound SUV come to rest from 60 MPH in a mere 123 feet. The braking distance is average in its class and Lexus could have done better.  

The brakes Panic stops do induce some nosedive and that's not confidence-inspiring. However, compared to its previous generation, there is less tip and dive in the RX 350. Also, with standard automatic emergency braking this year, this technology helps to initiate sudden stops when needed, further decreasing braking distance. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Brake Front	13.3 in	12.3 in	13.7 in	13.0 in
Brake Rear	12.9 in	12.0 in	12.6 in	12.8 in
Curb Weight	4,222 lbs	4,001 lbs	4,625 lbs	4,652 lbs
60-0 MPH	123 ft.	121 ft.	129 ft.	125 ft.

The Acura MDX's light curb weight not only helps in its performance but also in its braking capabilities. The braking performance of the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is excellent and takes 125 feet despite being the bulkiest vehicle. Meanwhile, the BMW X5 has weak brakes and hence, takes the longest braking distance. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

When equipped with the optional Towing Package, the Lexus RX 350 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Comparatively, it is one of the lowest towing capacities in its segment because this vehicle is not meant for towing. Therefore, people intending to buy his vehicle for towing purposes, steer away from this decision. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs	3,500 lbs	5,952 lbs	7,200 lbs

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers an impressive towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, probably the best in its segment. The BMW X5 also offers a decent towing capacity than the RX 350, which is expected from a midsize SUV. The Acura MDX's tow ratings are just like the RX 350 and therefore, are not suitable for towing large items. 

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The RX 350 achieves decent enough fuel economy- The Car Connection

The Lexus RX 350 is one of the frugal SUVs in its segment. The absence of a turbocharger helps it to gain good numbers. The FWD models manage to return 20 MPG in the city, 27 MPG on a highway, and 23 MPG combined. On the other hand, the AWD models drop down the mileage by just 1 MPG, which is still good. 

A 19.2-gallon fuel tank capacity is fitted in the RX 350, which is decently sized for a midsize SUV. When filled with regular unleaded gas, this SUV boasts an impressive combined range of 451 miles while the AWD models deliver 432 miles. Therefore, this is a perfect car for those who wish to take long trips regularly. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
MPG (City)	20	19	18	18
MPG (Highway)	27	27	25	23
MPG (Combined)	23	22	21	20
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallon)	19.2	19.5	22.4	24.6
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)	384/518/451	371/527/449	403/560/481	443/566/504

The RX 350 is the most efficient car followed by the Acura RDX whose efficiency and driving range are almost close to the RX 350. The BMW X5's MPG figures are less than the RX 350 but the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has the worst fuel ratings in this segment. However, thanks to its large fuel tank, it delivers the best range in this competition. 

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• Know more about the sportier 2022 Lexus RX 350 F Sport

This easy-to-master cockpit is a spacious and comfy place to pass the miles - Edmunds

2017 Lexus RX 350 Seating and Comfort

The interior of the Lexus RX 350 looks modern and filled with high-quality materials. The dashboard has hand-stitched materials and gives out a sporty flair. All five seats are covered in leatherette upholstery. The front seat comfort as a whole is good as the seats are comfortable and the armrests are well-padded. The lumbar support is a little hard while the side bolstering is good. They are 10-way power-adjustable and the steering wheel is power-adjustbale too.

The passengers should find it a little more comfortable as there is plenty of head and legroom in both rows. Even though the seating position at the back is a little bit lower than you might expect in some other SUVs, it's not so low that you feel unnatural. Even the rear seats are comfortable and supportive as the front ones. They do slide and have recline adjustment but the only standout is no heated seats. Overall, the cabin is spacious and feature-filled.

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Passenger Capacity	5	7	5	5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	39.4/57.8/44.1	38.7/58.7/42.0	39.8/60.5/40.4	38.9/58.5/40.3
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	39.1/57.6/38.0	38.1/57.2/38.3	38.8/58.3/36.6	38.5/58.4/38.4
Third Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	N/A	35.6/54.7/28.1	N/A	N/A

The Acura MDX stands out as it is a 7-seater. However, its third row cannot accommodate adults and is only suitable for small kids. The rear legroom in the BMW X5 is really compared to the RX 350. On the other hand, the headroom offered in the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is less in both rows which can be unsuitable for taller passengers. 

2017 Lexus RX 350  Interior Features

The Lexus RX 350 hosts a lot of standard comfort and technological features. Some of them are:

• Power tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
• 10-way power front seats with power lumbar support
• Leatherette upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Footwell lights
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Push-button start
• Power liftgate
• 8-inch touchscreen display
• 8-speaker sound system
• SiriusXM
• Voice recognition audio system

2017 Lexus RX 350  Infotainment System

An 8-inch touchscreen display is standard in the Lexus RX 350 that functions on the Enform infotainment system but it can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch high-resolution display. The larger screen has a split-screen function that allows you to see your navigation map alongside your information screen. The standard 8 speakers do a decent job but the optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system is one of the best in the business. To keep the rear passengers amused, there is an optional dual 11.6-inch video screen. 

The only thing that may slow you down is the remote controller in the center console which requires more precision than you would expect. The menu layout is simple and well laid out. Simple controls such as volume and climate tuning are all backed up by hard controls below the screen. however, this interface is starting to show its age in a few key areas. It doesn't have some of the latest connectivity functions which are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall though, it is still one of the best systems in the business when it comes to ease of use. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Cargo Storage

In terms of cargo capacity, the Lexus RX 350 does not impress much. It only offers 18.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which is below average in its segment as most of the SUVs offer more than 35 cubic feet. The rear seats do fold down in a 40/20/40 split, giving access to 56.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo storage. 

A power liftgate is standard on the RX 350 but a touch-free power liftgate is available for $200. Upon walking to the Lexus emblem and raising your hand or elbow, it will automatically open the tailgate. Of course, the tailgate can be opened manually too. The loading lip is a bit high so loading items into the trunk can be challenging.  

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura MDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)	18.4	14.9	35.8	38.2

Among its rivals, the Acura MDX offers the most cargo volume in this competition. A total of 90.9 cubic feet is available in the MDX thanks to its lengthy body proportions. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class' cargo volume is not that bad either and offers 80.3 cubic feet whereas only 76.7 cubic feet is offered in the BMW X5.

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The Lexus RX is certainly controversial, but we have to admire Lexus for taking chances. -The Car Connection

2017 Lexus RX 350 Dimensions and Weight

 The styling of the Lexus RX 350 is a big departure from that of all the previous generations. Upfront, the RX 350 wears a large version of the bold spindle grille which sets inside a 3D outline. The LED headlights and arrowhead DRLs also have an aggressive look to them. While they are not separated like some recent Lexus cars, the design is angular and integrates nicely with the grille. The vehicle will also get standard LED fog lamps as well. 

The base wheels are 18 inches but 20-inch super chrome wheels are optional. The RX 350 has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, which is perfect for riding over rough terrains. The rear pillar is blacked to give a floating roofline appearance. Heading around back, you'll notice the RX 350 has an aggressive look. The brake lights are LED and they have a design that looks a lot like the NX. The lower fascia is nicely accented by dual chrome-tipped exhausts. 

Models	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Acura RDX	2017 BMW X5	2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,222	4,001	4,625	4,652
Length (in)	192.5	196.2	193.3	189.1
Width (in)	74.6	77.8	76.3	78.9
Height (in)	67.7	67.4	69.4	70.7
Ground Clearance (in)	8.2	7.3	8.2	7.1
Wheelbase (in)	109.8	111.0	115.5	114.8
Track Width (in) F/R	64.4/64	66.3/66.3	64.6/64.8	64.4/65.0

The wide wheelbase of the BMW X5 helps to offer better stability at higher speeds and a more comfortable ride. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class sits 1.1 inches lower than the RX 350. This benefits to better handling and performance. With a curb weight of 4,001 lbs, the Acura RDX is the lightest vehicle here and its the sloe reason for its quick acceleration. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 Exterior Features

Some of the exterior features of the Lexus RX 350 are:

• LED headlights, taillights & DRLs
• Door courtesy lights
• Exterior entry lights
• Black grille with chrome surround
• Power & heated exterior mirrors
• 18 & 20-inch wheels
• Black fender lip moldings
• Chrome window trim
• Rear roofline spoiler
• Dual exhaust chrome tips

The 2017 Lexus RX receives the Lexus Safety System+ suite of active safety features as standard-  MotorTrend

NHTSA awarded the RX 350 with a 4-star overall safety rating, which is a decent score. It scored 4 stars for the rollover and frontal crash tests while the RX 350 managed to score 5 stars in the side-impact crash test. Had it scored 5 stars in the frontal crash test then the RX 350 would have definitely earned a 5-star overall rating. 

NHSTA Rating

Overall Rating	4 stars
Overall Frontal Crash Rating	4 stars
Frontal Crash Rating Driver Side	4 stars
Frontal Crash Rating Passenger Side	4 stars
Overall Side Crash Rating	5 stars
Combined Side Barrier and Pole Rating Front Seat	5 stars
Combined Side Barrier and Pole Rating Front Seat Rear Seat	5 stars
Side Barrier	5 stars
Side barrier Driver	5 stars
Side barrier Rear Passenger	5 stars
Overall Side Pole Star Rating	5 stars
Rollover Rating	4 stars

Unlike NHTSA, IIHS honored the RX 350 with their highest accolade which is the 'Top Safety Pick+' award. That's because it had received 'Good' ratings in all the crash tests and a 'Superior' rating for its front crash prevention. The models with the Bi-LED headlamps also received the second-highest 'Acceptable' rating.

IIHS Rating

Crashworthiness
Small overlap front driver side	Good
Small overlap front passenger side	N/A
Moderate overlap front	Good
Side	Good
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints & seats	Good
Front crash prevention	Superior
Headlights	Acceptable
Child seat anchors (LATCH)	Good

Therefore, it is evident to say that the RX 350 is indeed a safe vehicle. Lexus is more inclined towards the safety of its passengers and hence, it has provided a total of 10 airbags for the protection of front and rear passengers. Moreover, the Lexus Safety Plus package is now standard on the RX 350 which is a suite of top driver-assist features. 

If you are satisfied with the standard safety feature list, the optional Panoramic View Monitor with Blind Spot Monitor package bundles some additional features for $1,865. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Rearview Camera
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Auto High Beams
• Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Warning
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane Change Assist
• Park Assist

2017 Lexus RX 350 vs 2017 Acura MDX 

The Acura MDX is slightly expensive than the RX 350. It boasts the best performance stats in this competition and the credit goes to its low curb weight. Both the SUVs have the same tow ratings and the MDX's fuel economy is almost similar to the RX 350. Unlike the RX 350, the MDX is a 7-seater but its third row is useless for adults. Its cargo volume is one of the best in the segment. Both SUVs have earned good safety ratings but the RX 350 offers more standard safety features.

2017 Lexus RX 350 vs 2017 BMW X5

With an initial price of $56,600, the BMW X5 is the most expensive car in this competition. Its athletic performance helps it to accelerate a bit faster than the RX 350.  Moreover, it can tow nearly 2,400 lbs more than the RX 350. The X5's cabin is more practical than the RX 350 but its rear legroom is the least in this competition. It also offers an array of advanced driver aids but it loses some points in terms of fuel economy.

2017 Lexus RX 350 vs 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

The price difference between the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and the RX 350 is nearly $8,700. Although the power figures of the two SUVs slightly differ, the performance stats are more or less the same. But the GLE-Class takes a forward leap in terms of towing capacity. Its cabin is as spacious as the RX 350 but has more luxury features while the cargo capacity is almost the same. Its main downsides are less standard safety features and poor fuel economy. 

The RX350 is the cornerstone of the Lexus brand and outsells every other Lexus' by a decent margin. Last year's redesign was critical to get it right. It is a pretty good option in this segment, especially now that the Safety System Plus package has been made standard across the lineup. There are options for more space and power but for a total package, the Lexus RX 350 definitely delivers. 

 

2017 Lexus RX 350 FAQs

Does the Lexus RX 350 hold its value?

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 has a stellar reliability rating of 83 out of 100 and tops the list in its segment. This means it has strong resale values and therefore, holds its value for a longer period of time. 

What is the difference between the 2016 and 2017 Lexus RX 350?

For 2017, Lexus has made the Safety Plus package as standard which includes a suite of top driver aids. 

What is the luxury package on the 2017 Lexus RX 350?

This package adds a 4-way power lumbar support, rear armrest storage compartment, a heated steering wheel, aluminum roof rails, front & rear aluminum scuff plates, 20-inch super chrome aluminum wheels with black wheel caps, and illuminated aluminum and wood door trim. 

Does 2017 Lexus RX 350 take premium gas?

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 can take premium gas but, it is not needed. 

Is the Lexus RX 350 expensive to maintain?

No, not at all. Ita maintenance and repair costs sum up to $2,300 every year, which is far less than other luxury midsize SUVs.