Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX IV |
| Type (Engine) | 350 V6 (300 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 210 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 152.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.8 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 | DOHC, 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 | 1965-2080 kg (4332.08 – 4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2575 kg (5676.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495-610 kg (1091.29 – 1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 553 l (19.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
The Lexus RX 350, specifically the fourth generation (RX IV) produced between 2015 and 2019, represented a significant evolution in the luxury crossover segment. This variant, equipped with the 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD), was positioned as the mainstream offering within the RX IV lineup, slotting between the hybrid models and potentially higher-trim, feature-laden gasoline-only versions. It aimed to balance performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency for a broad customer base in the North American market, where the RX series consistently ranked among the best-selling luxury SUVs.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RX 350 is the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine utilizes a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration with Toyota’s VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) system, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 2GR-FKS is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output. The eight-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the six-speed unit used in previous generations, provides quick and seamless gear changes. This transmission contributes to improved acceleration and highway cruising comfort. The AWD system is primarily front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels as needed to enhance traction in slippery conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 with the 3.5L V6 and eight-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.1 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to the hybrid RX 450h, the RX 350 offers a more traditional driving feel, with a more direct connection between the throttle and engine response. Compared to potential higher-output trims (if offered in some markets), the RX 350 prioritizes smoothness and fuel economy over outright performance. The AWD system provides confident handling in various weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 350 typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety technologies like lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a Mark Levinson premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels often included base, Premium, and Luxury packages, with each successive trim adding more features and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 utilizes an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution enhances braking performance and stability. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RX 350 was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined ratings around 26.1 US mpg. Reliability was a strong point, with Lexus consistently ranking high in consumer reports. Compared to competitors like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the RX 350 often stood out for its smoother ride and more luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that its handling wasn’t as sporty as some of its rivals.
Legacy
The 2GR-FKS engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant, with many RX 350 models exceeding 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. The fourth-generation RX 350 continues to be a popular choice in the used car market, appreciated for its blend of luxury, reliability, and practicality. While not the most fuel-efficient or performance-oriented SUV in its class, it remains a compelling option for buyers seeking a comfortable and dependable luxury crossover.
