2016 Lexus RX 350 review

1. Street presence  

Everyone loves curb appeal, and the redesigned 2016 Lexus RX 350 will turn heads when parked on the street. You'll love the look of the imposing spindle grille flanked by swept chrome housings with standard LED headlights and daytime running light accents. It all defines the unmistakable modern “face” of Lexus. Large fender flares bulge over a choice of 18- or 20-inch wheels, and sharp character lines run to the back, ending with a floating roof design and subtle spoiler. The RX 350 looks like it’s speeding even when parked.   

2. Smooth drivetrain 

Around town, you might not even be able to hear the RX 350 engine. A 3.5L V6 makes a solid 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, all paired to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. You have the option of standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The V6's zero to 60 time of 6.9 seconds is plenty for making quick work of short on-ramps. If you need to haul a fishing boat to the lake, the Lexus RX 350 has a maximum estimated towing capacity of 3,500 lbs with the V6 when properly equipped.

3. Generous standard features 

Even with no additional options, the RX 350 feels loaded. Every 2016 RX 350 has a power rear cargo door, dual-zone climate control, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. The standard audio system has an eight-inch display with nine speakers, HD Radio^™, Bluetooth^®, and two USB ports.

4. Outstanding options 

Look for the optional navigation package, as it comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, and adds the Remote Touch mouse-like device to the center console. Other options include a panoramic sunroof, dramatic sapele wood with aluminum trim, semi-aniline leather trim and stitching, and polished dual exhaust tips. The available 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system features technology designed to improve the quality of your music files. Turn it up, and you can relive your favorite concerts.  

5. Clever interior 

The Lexus RX 350 cabin is quiet and isolated from road noise, except for the F Sport trim which trades some quiet for a more sporting road grip. Supremely comfortable seats, with impressive 39.4 inches headroom and 44.1 inches legroom up front. Smart storage solutions are all over, from adjustable-depth cupholders to hidden compartments for leaving valuables while away. The second row has a standard slide and recline feature. Even the padding on the door and inside of the steering wheel rim (that you will touch often) is super soft, as is, unusually, the headliner. Driver or passenger, The RX 350 is a relaxing place to spend commuting.