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

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey everyone, let's dive into the Lexus RX 350 F Sport review! If you're anything like me, you're always on the hunt for a ride that blends luxury, performance, and a touch of head-turning style. The RX 350 F Sport promises all of that, but does it deliver? We're going to break down everything from its sleek design and the driving experience to the tech inside and whether it truly lives up to the hype. Buckle up, because we're about to take a deep dive into what makes this SUV tick.

Unveiling the Design: Exterior and Interior

First impressions? Absolutely crucial, right? The Lexus RX 350 F Sport certainly makes a statement. The exterior design is all about sharp lines, an aggressive front grille, and those signature Lexus LED headlights that give it an unmistakable presence on the road. The F Sport trim takes it up a notch with a unique mesh grille, a sportier front bumper, and exclusive badging. It's a look that says, “I’m here, and I mean business.”

But let's not just focus on the front. The side profile is equally striking, with a sloping roofline that hints at the SUV's sporty intentions. The rear end is just as stylish, with a full-width light bar that adds a modern touch. The available F Sport-specific wheels really complete the look, making it clear this isn't your average RX.

Now, let’s hop inside. The interior is where the RX 350 F Sport truly shines, especially for those who appreciate a blend of luxury and sporty cues. You're greeted by premium materials, from the soft-touch surfaces to the meticulously crafted details. The F Sport treatment means you get exclusive sports seats with enhanced bolstering, designed to keep you snug during spirited drives. The seats are not only supportive but also incredibly comfortable, making long journeys a breeze. The cabin feels spacious and airy, thanks to the panoramic sunroof (available as an option) that floods the interior with natural light.

The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a focus on driver-centric features. The infotainment screen sits prominently in the center, and the controls are generally intuitive and easy to use. The F Sport also adds unique touches like aluminum pedals, a sport steering wheel, and distinctive interior trim options. The quality of materials is top-notch, and everything feels solid and well-built. It's a space that truly feels premium. The attention to detail is evident, with every element carefully considered to create a sense of sophistication and comfort. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend getaway, the interior of the RX 350 F Sport is a genuinely pleasant place to be.

Driving Experience: Performance and Handling

Alright, let’s get down to the fun part: how does the Lexus RX 350 F Sport perform on the road? Under the hood, you’ll find a responsive 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a solid punch. It's not the most powerful engine in its class, but it provides plenty of power for daily driving and overtaking on the highway. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. The combination provides a balanced driving experience, striking a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

One of the standout features of the F Sport trim is its enhanced handling capabilities. The suspension is tuned for a sportier ride, providing a more engaging driving experience compared to the standard RX. The adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system, which is standard on the F Sport, adjusts the dampers to provide a comfortable ride while also enhancing handling and stability. The system continuously monitors the road conditions and adjusts the suspension to minimize body roll and improve cornering performance. This translates to confident handling, even on winding roads.

The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. The F Sport also features unique design elements such as the paddle shifters, adding a layer of control and excitement when you want to take over the gear changes. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The brakes are strong and reliable, providing confident stopping power. Overall, the RX 350 F Sport delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable. It's not a sports car, but it offers a level of performance and handling that elevates it above your average SUV.

Tech and Infotainment: Features and Functionality

Now, let's talk tech. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is packed with technology designed to make your driving experience safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. The centerpiece of the tech setup is the infotainment system, which includes a large touchscreen display. The system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The graphics are clear, and the system is generally responsive, but some users have noted a learning curve when it comes to navigating the menus.

The F Sport trim comes with a premium audio system that delivers impressive sound quality. Whether you're listening to your favorite tunes or a podcast, the audio system immerses you in a rich and detailed soundscape. The vehicle also features a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety. These include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to provide an added layer of protection, making your drives safer and more relaxing.

Other notable tech features include a digital instrument cluster that displays vital information in an easy-to-read format. There's also a head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The RX 350 F Sport also offers a range of convenience features, such as a power liftgate, a hands-free power liftgate, and a wireless charging pad for your smartphone. These features add to the overall sense of luxury and convenience, making the RX 350 F Sport a pleasure to live with every day.

Comfort and Practicality: Interior Space and Cargo

Beyond the tech and the driving dynamics, comfort and practicality are key considerations for any SUV. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport delivers well in this regard. The front seats are spacious and offer plenty of head and legroom for both the driver and front passenger. The seats are well-contoured and supportive, making long drives comfortable. The F Sport-specific seats offer even more bolstering, enhancing the driving experience.

The rear seats are also comfortable, offering ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults, making it a great option for families. The rear seats also recline, allowing passengers to adjust their seating position for optimal comfort. The RX 350 F Sport offers a generous amount of cargo space. The cargo area is easily accessible, thanks to the wide opening and the power liftgate. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it easy to accommodate larger items. The cargo area also features tie-down points and a cargo cover, helping to keep your belongings secure. Practicality is another one of the RX 350 F Sport's strengths.

Trim Levels and Options: Customizing Your Ride

The Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers several trim levels, each with its own set of features and options. Besides the F Sport, you'll also find standard RX 350 versions and hybrid variants. The F Sport trim comes with a variety of exclusive features, including the unique front grille, sport-tuned suspension, and performance-inspired interior design elements. Additional options such as a premium Mark Levinson sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display can be added to customize the RX 350 F Sport to your preferences. The Lexus RX lineup also offers a range of exterior colors, allowing you to further personalize your vehicle's appearance.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Verdict

Let’s break down the good, the bad, and the so-so of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport. On the plus side:

  • Stylish Design: The RX 350 F Sport boasts a head-turning design, with sporty accents and premium details.
  • Luxurious Interior: The interior is crafted with high-quality materials and offers a comfortable and refined experience.
  • Engaging Driving Experience: The F Sport trim offers enhanced handling and a more dynamic feel on the road.
  • Advanced Technology: The vehicle is equipped with a range of advanced tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a suite of driver-assistance systems.
  • Comfortable and Practical: The RX 350 F Sport offers spacious seating, ample cargo space, and a range of practical features.

However, there are a few areas where it could be better:

  • Infotainment System: Some users find the infotainment system’s menu structure and interface a bit clunky.
  • Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy isn't best in class compared to its rivals.
  • Price: The F Sport trim can be a bit pricey compared to some of its competitors.

Conclusion: Is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport Right for You?

So, after all that, is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport worth the hype? Absolutely, if you're looking for a luxury SUV that blends style, performance, and technology. It’s a great choice if you prioritize comfort, a refined driving experience, and a touch of sporty flair. It might not be the best choice if you're primarily focused on fuel efficiency or if you need a lot of cargo space compared to the competition. But overall, it's a solid pick in the luxury SUV segment, delivering on its promise of a premium experience. Thanks for reading, and happy driving!