The Lexus RX 350 F Sport has garnered attention as a luxurious and performance-oriented SUV that combines style, comfort, and technology. With its bold design and advanced features, it aims to cater to drivers seeking a premium driving experience without sacrificing practicality. This article delves into various aspects of the RX 350 F Sport, covering its performance, interior features, exterior design, safety, and technological advancements.
What Makes the Lexus RX 350 F Sport Stand Out?
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a variant of the popular RX lineup, featuring a sportier design and performance enhancements. As a luxury midsize SUV, it competes with other high-end models like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7. However, the RX 350 F Sport differentiates itself with a blend of reliability, cutting-edge technology, and a unique driving experience.
Engine Performance and Driving Experience
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides smooth acceleration and enough power for confident highway driving and city commuting.
Handling and Suspension
The F Sport version features an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which adjusts the damping force based on road conditions and driving style. This allows for a more responsive and agile ride, enhancing the overall driving experience. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firmer ride compared to the standard RX 350, giving drivers more precise control when taking corners.
All-Wheel Drive and Drive Mode Select
The RX 350 F Sport offers optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction on various road surfaces, making it suitable for all-weather conditions. Additionally, the Drive Mode Select system allows drivers to choose between several driving modes, including Normal, Sport, and Eco. The Sport mode sharpens throttle response and adjusts the transmission’s shift points, while Eco mode optimizes fuel efficiency.
Interior Luxury and Comfort
Lexus is known for its high-quality interiors, and the RX 350 F Sport is no exception. The cabin is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers.
Seating and Upholstery
The F Sport features perforated leather-trimmed seats with unique stitching, adding a touch of sportiness to the interior. The front seats are power-adjustable and come with heating and ventilation options to enhance comfort. The rear seats offer ample legroom and can be reclined for added relaxation during long drives.
Dashboard and Controls
The dashboard is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system is user-friendly, and its split-screen capability allows for multitasking. Additionally, the F Sport comes with a digital instrument cluster, providing the driver with essential information, such as speed, fuel level, and navigation, in a clear and customizable display.
Cargo Space and Practicality
While the RX 350 F Sport prioritizes luxury, it doesn’t compromise on practicality. The SUV offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The power liftgate, which can be operated hands-free, makes loading and unloading cargo more convenient.
Exterior Design: A Sporty and Bold Look
The exterior of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport is designed to stand out with its aggressive styling and aerodynamic enhancements.
Front Fascia and Spindle Grille
The RX 350 F Sport features Lexus’ signature spindle grille with a mesh pattern, giving it a bold front-end appearance. The distinctive grille is complemented by sharp LED headlights and daytime running lights, which add to its sporty look.
Wheels and Body Accents
The F Sport is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels that come with a dark metallic finish, further distinguishing it from the standard RX 350. Additionally, it has unique body accents, including sportier front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, all contributing to a more athletic stance.
Color Options
Lexus offers a range of exterior colors for the RX 350 F Sport, including Ultra White, Atomic Silver, and Nightfall Mica, allowing customers to choose a finish that suits their personal style.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Lexus prioritizes safety in the RX 350 F Sport, equipping it with the latest driver assistance technologies.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
The Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is standard on the RX 350 F Sport, which includes features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Warns of potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even at varying speeds.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing alerts and gentle steering corrections.
- Automatic High Beams: Adjusts the headlights between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.
Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The F Sport also includes a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert to enhance safety when changing lanes or reversing out of parking spaces.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The RX 350 F Sport is packed with advanced technology to keep drivers connected and entertained.
Touchscreen and Navigation
The 12.3-inch touchscreen includes navigation with real-time traffic updates. The system also supports voice commands, allowing for hands-free operation of navigation, phone calls, and audio settings.
Audio System
The standard model comes with a 9-speaker audio system, while an optional Mark Levinson premium surround sound system with 15 speakers is available for audiophiles who want an immersive listening experience.
Smartphone Integration and Charging
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa come standard, providing seamless smartphone integration. There are multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad to keep devices powered during trips.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
Despite its sporty nature, the RX 350 F Sport manages to deliver decent fuel economy for a luxury SUV.
MPG Ratings
The RX 350 F Sport achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Opting for the all-wheel-drive version slightly reduces these numbers, with an estimated 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Fuel-Saving Technologies
The vehicle is equipped with start-stop technology that automatically shuts off the engine when idling, helping to conserve fuel during city driving.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The RX 350 F Sport is priced higher than the base RX 350 due to its performance and design upgrades.
MSRP and Packages
The starting MSRP for the F Sport trim is around $51,000, but adding optional features like the Mark Levinson audio system or a panoramic moonroof can increase the price. Lexus also offers an F Sport Handling package for those who want even sharper performance characteristics.
Competitors
The RX 350 F Sport’s main competitors include the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Acura MDX. While these models offer similar features and luxury, the RX 350 F Sport stands out with its reputation for reliability and user-friendly technology.
The Verdict: Is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport Worth It?
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a compelling choice for those who want a luxury SUV that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and safety. Its combination of a powerful engine, adaptive suspension, and advanced safety features make it an attractive option in the midsize luxury SUV segment. While some may find its sportier ride less smooth than the standard RX 350, those who prioritize handling and a bold design will likely appreciate the F Sport’s enhancements.
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