Lexus RX 350 F Sport Review: Is It Worth It?

by Alex Braham 45 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Lexus RX 350 F Sport, a vehicle that has been turning heads and sparking conversations. If you're anything like me, you probably want to know if this sporty SUV lives up to the hype. Is it just a pretty face, or does it pack the punch to match its aggressive styling? Let's get into the nitty-gritty and find out if the RX 350 F Sport is worth your hard-earned cash. We'll cover everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and tech features. Buckle up, because this is going to be a comprehensive review!

Exterior Design: A Head-Turner

The Lexus RX 350 F Sport definitely makes a statement with its exterior design. The bold spindle grille, unique to the F Sport trim, immediately catches your eye. It's aggressive, modern, and gives the RX a much sportier look than the standard model. The sculpted lines and sharp angles flow seamlessly from the front to the rear, creating a dynamic and athletic silhouette. The F Sport also gets exclusive wheels, which add to its distinctive appearance. These aren't your grandma's Lexus wheels; they're designed to complement the vehicle's sporty character. One of the standout features is the rear spoiler, which not only looks cool but also improves aerodynamics. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the exterior, from the sleek LED headlights to the stylish taillights. The overall design exudes confidence and sophistication, making the RX 350 F Sport a head-turner on the road. Compared to its competitors, the RX 350 F Sport manages to stand out with its unique blend of luxury and sportiness. While some SUVs opt for a more understated look, the RX 350 F Sport embraces its bold design, making it a popular choice for those who want to make a statement. The color options available for the F Sport also enhance its appeal, with vibrant hues that accentuate its lines and curves. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying that the Lexus RX 350 F Sport has a distinctive and memorable exterior design.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Luxury Meets Innovation

Stepping inside the Lexus RX 350 F Sport, you're immediately greeted by a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering ample support for long drives. The F Sport seats are specially designed with enhanced bolstering, keeping you snug and secure during spirited driving. The quality of the materials is top-notch, with soft leather, premium trim, and meticulous attention to detail throughout. The cabin feels spacious and airy, providing plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of openness, allowing natural light to flood the interior. When it comes to technology, the RX 350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a large touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. The Mark Levinson premium audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, making every drive a concert-like experience. Other notable tech features include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, and a suite of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The interior of the RX 350 F Sport is a testament to Lexus's commitment to luxury and innovation, creating a comfortable and connected driving environment. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the RX 350 F Sport stands out with its attention to detail and high-quality materials. The combination of comfort, technology, and safety features makes it a compelling choice for those who want a premium driving experience.

Performance and Handling: Sporty and Refined

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood. 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. While it's not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides ample performance for everyday driving. The engine is smooth and responsive, delivering brisk acceleration and confident passing power. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, enhancing the overall driving experience. The F Sport trim gets a sport-tuned suspension, which improves handling and reduces body roll in corners. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. While the RX 350 F Sport is not a sports car, it offers a more engaging driving experience than the standard RX model. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) adjusts the damping force of the shock absorbers in response to road conditions and driving inputs, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. The F Sport also gets a unique Sport+ driving mode, which sharpens the throttle response, firms up the suspension, and reduces the amount of steering assist. This mode transforms the RX 350 F Sport into a more dynamic and responsive machine, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. Overall, the performance and handling of the RX 350 F Sport strike a good balance between sportiness and refinement, making it a versatile and enjoyable SUV to drive. Compared to its competitors, the RX 350 F Sport may not be the quickest or most athletic, but it offers a well-rounded driving experience that is both comfortable and engaging. The combination of a smooth engine, responsive transmission, and sport-tuned suspension makes it a compelling choice for those who want a sporty SUV without sacrificing luxury or comfort.

Fuel Economy: How Efficient Is It?

Fuel economy is always a concern, especially with SUVs. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These figures are decent for a V6-powered SUV, but they're not class-leading. In real-world driving, you can expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates, depending on your driving style and conditions. If you have a heavy foot, you'll likely see lower fuel economy. The RX 350 F Sport has a fuel tank capacity of 19.2 gallons, which gives it a decent range between fill-ups. The fuel economy of the RX 350 F Sport is competitive with other SUVs in its class, but there are more fuel-efficient options available if that's a top priority. The hybrid version of the RX, the RX 450h, offers significantly better fuel economy, but it comes at a higher price. If you're looking for a balance between performance and fuel economy, the RX 350 F Sport is a reasonable choice. However, if fuel efficiency is your primary concern, you may want to consider the RX 450h or another SUV with a more efficient engine. The fuel economy of the RX 350 F Sport is a trade-off for its performance and sporty character. While it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it offers a good balance of power, comfort, and features.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Money?

The Lexus RX 350 F Sport comes with a starting price of around $50,000. This is a competitive price for a luxury SUV with its features and performance. However, the price can quickly climb with options and packages. It's important to consider what features are essential to you and to shop around for the best deal. The RX 350 F Sport holds its value well, which is a plus if you plan to trade it in or sell it later. Lexus has a reputation for reliability, which contributes to its strong resale value. The overall value of the RX 350 F Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value sporty styling, comfortable interior, and advanced technology, it's definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for the most fuel-efficient or the most powerful SUV in its class, there may be better options available. The RX 350 F Sport offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, making it a compelling choice for many buyers. Compared to its competitors, the RX 350 F Sport is priced competitively and offers a similar level of features and performance. However, it stands out with its unique styling and Lexus's reputation for reliability. The overall value of the RX 350 F Sport is strong, making it a smart choice for those who want a luxury SUV that will last.

Pros and Cons

To sum it up, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport:

Pros:

  • Sporty and aggressive styling
  • Luxurious and comfortable interior
  • Advanced technology features
  • Sport-tuned suspension for improved handling
  • Strong resale value
  • Reliable

Cons:

  • Fuel economy is not class-leading
  • Not the most powerful engine in its class
  • Price can climb quickly with options

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

So, is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport worth it? If you're looking for a luxury SUV that combines sporty styling, a comfortable interior, and advanced technology, the answer is a resounding yes. It's a well-rounded vehicle that offers a good balance of features, performance, and value. However, if fuel economy is your top priority, or if you need the most powerful engine in its class, you may want to consider other options. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences. But if you're in the market for a stylish and reliable luxury SUV, the Lexus RX 350 F Sport should definitely be on your list.

I hope this review has been helpful in your car-buying journey. Happy driving, everyone!