The Lexus RX 350 F Sport, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation (RX III) RX series. This variant, characterized by its 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i), occupied a premium position within the RX lineup, blending luxury, performance, and all-wheel-drive capability. The facelift brought revised styling cues, enhanced interior appointments, and refinements to the powertrain and chassis. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a sporty yet comfortable SUV experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX III (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 F Sport V6 (270 Hp) AWD ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4-13.1 l/100 km (19-18 US mpg, 22.8-21.6 UK mpg, 8.1-7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9-9.4 l/100 km (26.1-25 US mpg, 31.4-30.1 UK mpg, 11.1-10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 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 | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 170.6 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 capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1970-2050 kg (4343.11 – 4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2563 kg (5650.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 513-593 kg (1130.97 – 1307.34 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 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 | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 28.6° |
| Departure angle | 24.9° |
| Ramp-over angle | 14.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven by clutch. |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 235/55 VR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2012-2015 Lexus RX 350 F Sport represents a compelling blend of luxury and performance within the RX family. Building upon the established reputation of the RX for comfort and reliability, the F Sport trim added a layer of dynamic capability. Positioned as a step above the base RX 350, it offered a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the refinement expected from a Lexus. The RX III platform (XA30) was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong resale value. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior styling, including a more aggressive front fascia and revised taillights, further emphasizing the F Sport’s sporty character.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RX 350 F Sport lies the 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a dual variable valve timing system (Dual VVT-i) to optimize performance and efficiency. The 2GR-FE is renowned for its smoothness and reliability. The engine produces 270 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 247.82 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm. Paired with this engine is Lexus’s eight-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i – Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence). This transmission offers smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to a more engaging driving experience compared to earlier RX models with five or six-speed automatics. The transmission is designed to adapt to driving conditions and driver input, selecting the optimal gear for performance or fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 F Sport’s driving experience is noticeably more engaging than the standard RX 350. The eight-speed transmission allows the engine to stay within its optimal power band more frequently, resulting in quicker acceleration and more responsive passing maneuvers. While not a sports car, the F Sport trim benefits from a slightly firmer suspension tuning and larger wheels, which improve handling and reduce body roll. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the base RX 350, the F Sport feels more planted and controlled, particularly during cornering. However, the focus remains on comfort, and the ride quality is still remarkably smooth, even with the sportier suspension setup. The 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds is respectable for a luxury SUV of this size.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F Sport trim came standard with a number of features designed to enhance both the aesthetic and driving experience. These included unique F Sport badging, a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive interior trim. Inside, the F Sport featured sport seats upholstered in leather with contrast stitching, a unique steering wheel, and aluminum pedal accents. Standard equipment also included a navigation system, a premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and Mark Levinson premium audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 F Sport utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension. The F Sport trim features a slightly stiffer spring rate and revised damper tuning compared to the standard RX 350, improving handling and reducing body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger front discs (328mm) compared to the base model. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The all-wheel-drive system is a full-time system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels based on traction conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and improved handling compared to the standard RX 350. However, some critics noted that the F Sport’s sporty pretensions were somewhat limited, and it didn’t offer the same level of performance as some of its European competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined EPA ratings around 21 mpg. Compared to the standard RX 350, the F Sport offered a more engaging driving experience but came at a slightly higher price. Compared to the RX 450h hybrid, the RX 350 F Sport offered a more traditional driving experience and a lower initial cost, but with lower fuel economy.
Legacy
The 2012-2015 Lexus RX 350 F Sport has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The 2GR-FE engine is known for its longevity, and the eight-speed transmission has also proven to be relatively trouble-free. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, reflecting the Lexus brand’s reputation for quality and reliability. Common maintenance items include routine oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations. The RX 350 F Sport remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, luxurious, and reliable SUV with a touch of sporty flair.
