Lexus RX 350
It’s facelift season in the auto world and the Lexus RX 350 is no exception. Despite hordes of imitators, the Lexus RX crossover lineup has continued to win the loyalty of its buyers by delivering a driving experience that accentuates comfort, tranquility, and luxury, topped off with superb reliability. The RX has long been Lexus’ top seller, and the redesigned model faithfully carries the torch, even with its new menacing grill and exterior styling.
Traditionally, the Lexus RX has been one of the most conservatively styled midsize SUVs, but there’s nothing subtle about the new 2016 model. With its gaping spindle grille, “floating roof” design, and series of sharp creases and edges throughout the exterior, the 2016 RX 350 is easily the most distinctive and eye-catching vehicle in the segment. The new model also has a larger wheelbase and length that increases interior room for passengers, as well as a raised ride height and slimmed-down roof line that still manages to provide ample headroom and legroom for everyone inside. Interior materials, fit and finish are the best in the segment.
Standard features include 18-inch wheels, full exterior LED lighting, heated side mirrors with LED turn signals, water-repellant front door glass, an acoustic glass windshield to reduce noise, a power lift gate, keyless entry and ignition, an electronic parking brake, engine stop-start, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob and ten-way front seats with lumbar support.
Continuing long-standing RX hallmarks, the interior is bank-vault quiet, and the ride is soft, cushy and insulating. The interior is tastefully done with materials that look elegant and plush. The seats are luxurious. Big wood panels ornament the center console. The rear seat is roomy and the cargo hold is super useful.
Tech features include a 4.2-inch OLED instrument panel, a backup camera, the Lexus Enform Safety Connect telematics system and Enform remote app, and a nine-speaker audio system with AM/FM HD Radio, satellite radio, aux-in, and two USB ports.
The Lexus Enform telematics system provides embedded connectivity for features such as automatic collision notification, emergency roadside assistance, and stolen-vehicle location. With the companion Enform Remote app, an owner can lock or unlock the doors, start or stop the engine, monitor another driver, and more. The 2016 RX 350 also comes with one year of SiriusXM NavTraffic and NavWeather, which supply the info for the Sports, Stocks, and Fuel Prices apps.
The 3.5-liter V6 in the RX 350, coupled with an eight-speed automatic, has the smooth and ample power delivery that you expect in a premium SUV. The hybrid version offers added boost and better fuel economy, as it combines the one-two punch of the gas engine and electric drive.
The 2016 Lexus RX comes in three trim levels: front-wheel drive that starts at $41,900, rear-wheel drive with a base price of $43,300 and the performance-oriented F Sport AWD that starts at $49,125. (An RX h450 hybrid is also available in the same three trim levels.) All models come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Stop by Lexus of Highland Park today for a test drive and see why the Lexus RX is great.
