The Lexus RX 350L V6, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a significant expansion of the fourth-generation (RX IV) RX line. Adding a third row of seating, the “L” designation denoted a longer wheelbase version designed to appeal to families needing occasional seven-passenger capacity. Positioned as a premium mid-size SUV, the RX 350L competed with vehicles like the Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, and BMW X5. This variant, equipped with the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, served as the mainstream powertrain option for the extended-length RX, offering a balance of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency within the Lexus lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX IV |
| Type (Engine) | 350L V6 (290 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 | 7 kg/Hp, 143.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.9 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 | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 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 | 5001 mm (196.89 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; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RX 350L is the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter dual VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and is known for its smooth operation and reliability. The 2GR-FKS is a direct descendant of the well-regarded 2GR-FE engine, but incorporates several updates for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. These include a redesigned cylinder head, optimized intake manifold, and a more efficient cooling system. The engine produces 290 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 267 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (Aisin A8F31), chosen for its smooth shifts and relatively wide gear ratio spread. This transmission replaced the six-speed unit found in earlier RX models, contributing to improved fuel economy and acceleration. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive as standard, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350L V6 with the eight-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive performance. Compared to the standard RX 350, the added weight of the longer body and third-row seating slightly diminishes acceleration, but the difference is not substantial. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth, almost imperceptible shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the hybrid RX 450h, the 350L offers a more traditional driving feel, lacking the electric motor’s instant torque. The gear ratios are tuned for highway cruising, providing relaxed performance at higher speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 350L was generally well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features typically included Lexus Safety System+, which encompasses pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with intelligent steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior amenities included leatherette upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment display controlled by a touchpad interface (a source of some criticism due to its complexity), and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the Luxury and F Sport, added features like genuine leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive variable suspension, and triple-beam LED headlights.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350L utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, tuned for a comfortable ride. The longer wheelbase of the “L” model contributes to a more stable and composed ride quality, particularly on uneven surfaces. The standard braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, providing light and precise steering feel. The F Sport trim level featured a sport-tuned suspension and larger brakes for improved handling and stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RX 350L was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and luxurious appointments. However, the third-row seating was often criticized for being cramped and best suited for children. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with the combined EPA rating of 23.1 mpg being comparable to other mid-size luxury SUVs. Compared to the RX 350, the 350L offered the added versatility of a third row, but at the expense of slightly reduced fuel economy and a higher price point. The hybrid RX 450h offered significantly better fuel economy but came with a higher initial cost.
Legacy
The RX 350L V6 has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 2GR-FKS engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues reported by owners include minor infotainment system glitches and occasional problems with the power steering system. On the used car market, the RX 350L holds its value well, reflecting its reputation for reliability and luxury. Its appeal lies in providing a comfortable and practical SUV with the Lexus brand’s renowned build quality and customer service.
