Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX III (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 (277 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.3 – 14.4 l/100 km (16.4 – 16.3 US mpg, 19.8 – 19.6 UK mpg, 7 – 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 – 8.5 l/100 km (28 – 27.7 US mpg, 33.6 – 33.2 UK mpg, 11.9 – 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 – 10.7 l/100 km (22.2 – 22 US mpg, 26.6 – 26.4 UK mpg, 9.4 – 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 250 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 277 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 346 Nm @ 4700 rpm (255.2 lb.-ft. @ 4700 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 | 1975-2085 kg (4354.13 – 4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2545 kg (5610.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-570 kg (1014.13 – 1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 496 l (17.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1570 l (55.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2740 mm (107.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18 103V; 235/55 R19 101V |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
The Lexus RX 350 (facelift 2012) is a luxury mid-size crossover SUV that builds upon the success of the second-generation RX. Positioned as the gasoline-powered counterpart to the RX 450h hybrid, the RX 350 aimed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience with a focus on reliability and build quality. The facelift introduced a more aggressive front fascia, a revised grille, and updated interior materials, enhancing the vehicle’s overall appeal. It’s built on the K platform (Toyota K platform) shared with other Toyota and Lexus models, and was a key model for Lexus in the North American market.
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 powerplant featuring dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for optimized performance and efficiency. The 2GR-FE utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a cast aluminum engine block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine produces 277 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 255.2 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The automatic transmission used is a six-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission is electronically controlled and features overdrive. The AWD system is primarily front-wheel drive, with power automatically sent to the rear wheels when traction is lost.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 with the 3.5L V6 and automatic transmission delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.6 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned for smooth shifts, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The AWD system provides enhanced stability and traction in inclement weather conditions. Compared to the RX 450h hybrid, the RX 350 offers a more traditional driving feel and slightly more responsive throttle response, but at the expense of fuel economy. Compared to potential V8-powered competitors from other luxury brands, the RX 350 prioritizes refinement and fuel efficiency over outright power.
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, and a premium audio system. Available options included a navigation system, Mark Levinson premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the year, but generally included the base RX 350 and the more luxurious RX 350 with Navigation/Luxury Package. Interior materials were generally high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 utilizes an independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a double wishbone suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
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, however, was often cited as a weakness, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 22 mpg. Compared to competitors such as the Acura MDX and BMW X5, the RX 350 offered a more comfortable and refined driving experience, but lacked the sporty handling of some rivals. The RX 350’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs made it a popular choice among buyers seeking a long-term ownership experience.
Legacy
The 2012-2015 Lexus RX 350 continues to be a popular choice in the used car market. The 2GR-FE engine is known for its durability and reliability, and with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. Common issues are relatively minor, often related to routine maintenance items such as oxygen sensors and water pumps. The automatic transmission is also generally reliable. The RX 350’s strong resale value and reputation for dependability ensure its continued appeal to buyers seeking a well-built and reliable luxury crossover SUV.
