The Lexus RX 350 F Sport, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents the fourth generation (RX IV) of Lexus’s popular luxury crossover SUV. Positioned as a sporty variant within the RX lineup, the 350 F Sport distinguishes itself through unique styling cues, a tuned suspension, and a more powerful engine option compared to the base RX 350. It served as a key model in Lexus’s strategy to attract a younger, more dynamic customer base while maintaining the brand’s reputation for reliability and refinement. This particular configuration, featuring the 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was a significant offering in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX IV |
| Type (Engine) | 350 F Sport V6 (295 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 363 Nm @ 4700 rpm (267.74 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FKS |
| 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 | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT-iW |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1587 kg (3498.74 lbs.) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2789 mm (109.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Introduction
The 2016-2019 Lexus RX 350 F Sport represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. Built on the fourth-generation RX (AL20) platform, it aimed to elevate the RX experience with a more engaging driving dynamic. The F Sport trim, introduced to the RX line, added aggressive styling elements, a sport-tuned suspension, and unique interior appointments. This variant occupied a middle ground in the RX lineup, offering more performance and visual flair than the standard RX 350, but without the hybrid powertrain of the RX 450h. It directly competed with vehicles like the Acura RDX, BMW X3, and Audi Q5.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RX 350 F Sport lies the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of Toyota’s GR family, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The 2GR-FKS utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct injection and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power output. The engine also features Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) technology, which allows for precise control of valve timing, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The engine produces 295 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 267 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. This power is channeled through a sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the six-speed unit found in earlier RX models. The eight-speed transmission provides smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency. The transmission is electronically controlled and features paddle shifters for manual gear selection, adding to the sporty driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 F Sport’s driving experience is noticeably more engaging than the standard RX 350. The sport-tuned suspension, featuring stiffer springs and dampers, reduces body roll and provides a more controlled feel in corners. While not a dedicated sports SUV, the F Sport offers a confident and composed ride. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to this improved driving experience, offering quick and seamless gear changes. The paddle shifters allow drivers to take more control over gear selection, particularly during spirited driving. Compared to the RX 450h, the RX 350 F Sport offers a more direct and responsive feel, as the hybrid system in the 450h can sometimes feel less connected. However, the RX 450h boasts superior fuel economy. The F Sport’s acceleration is brisk, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 7.7 seconds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F Sport trim level came standard with a number of features designed to enhance both comfort and style. These included unique F Sport badging, a mesh grille, sport seats with enhanced bolstering, aluminum pedals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Interior upholstery typically consisted of perforated leather, and trim accents were often finished in aluminum or dark wood. Standard equipment also included Lexus’s Display Audio system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a Mark Levinson premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 F Sport utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option. The suspension features independent MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear. The F Sport trim incorporates stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard RX 350, resulting in a firmer ride and reduced body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners. The braking system is equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist. The F Sport also features larger front brake rotors compared to the standard RX 350, providing improved stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus RX 350 F Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and improved driving dynamics compared to the standard RX 350. However, some critics noted that the F Sport’s ride could be a bit firm for some drivers. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, with the RX 450h offering significantly better mileage. Compared to its competitors, the RX 350 F Sport was often lauded for its reliability and Lexus’s renowned customer service. The Acura RDX offered a more engaging driving experience, while the BMW X3 provided a more luxurious interior.
Legacy
The 2GR-FKS engine, used in the RX 350 F Sport, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While some early models experienced issues with oil consumption, these were largely addressed through Toyota’s technical service bulletins. Today, used RX 350 F Sport models are considered a good value, offering a blend of luxury, reliability, and performance. The F Sport trim has become a popular choice among RX buyers, and its success has led Lexus to expand the F Sport designation to other models in its lineup. The 2016-2019 RX 350 F Sport remains a desirable option for those seeking a well-rounded luxury crossover SUV.
