Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX III (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 V6 (270 Hp) ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 270 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 336 Nm @ 4700 rpm (247.82 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1895-1969 kg (4177.76 – 4340.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2522 kg (5560.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 553-627 kg (1219.16 – 1382.3 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 446 l (15.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1570 l (55.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72.5 l (19.15 US gal | 15.95 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2740 mm (107.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1030 mm (40.55 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 28.6° |
| Departure angle | 24.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 328 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 310 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18; 235/55 VR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
The Lexus RX 350 (facelifted third generation, 2012-2015) is a five-passenger luxury crossover SUV that built upon the success of its predecessors. Positioned as the mainstream offering within the RX range, it slotted below the RX 450h hybrid model. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior styling, including a revised front fascia with a bolder grille and new headlight designs. Interior updates focused on improved materials and enhanced technology features. The RX 350 aimed to provide a comfortable, refined, and reliable driving experience, appealing to buyers seeking a premium SUV without the complexity or cost of more advanced models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RX 350 is the 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC design featuring dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The 2GR-FE utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a cast aluminum engine block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine produces 270 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 247.82 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm. The six-speed ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent) automatic transmission is specifically tuned for smooth and efficient operation. This transmission features adaptive shift logic, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 with the 3.5L V6 and six-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds is respectable for its class. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, although it may not offer the responsiveness of some newer transmissions with more gears. Compared to the RX 450h, the RX 350 feels less energetic due to the hybrid’s electric motor assistance. Compared to potential higher-output engine options available in competing SUVs, the RX 350 prioritizes refinement and fuel economy over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a comfortable ride, but all-wheel drive was available as an option for enhanced traction in inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2012-2015 RX 350 came well-equipped as standard. Base models typically included features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included a navigation system, Mark Levinson premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, a power moonroof, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the year, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology. Interior color options typically included black, gray, and beige leather.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, both incorporating coil springs and stabilizer bars. This suspension setup is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The RX 350 is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus RX 350 was consistently well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, luxurious interior, and strong reliability record. Fuel economy, at 21 mpg combined, was considered average for its class. Compared to competitors like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the RX 350 often stood out for its smoother ride and more spacious interior. However, some critics noted that its handling was not as engaging as some of its sportier rivals. The RX 350’s reputation for reliability contributed to strong resale values.
Legacy
The 2012-2015 Lexus RX 350 continues to be a popular choice in the used car market. The 2GR-FE V6 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. While some owners have reported minor issues with the navigation system or infotainment electronics, the powertrain itself has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The RX 350’s combination of luxury, comfort, and reliability has cemented its position as a benchmark in the luxury crossover segment, and these models remain a compelling option for buyers seeking a well-rounded and dependable SUV.
