The 2018 Lexus RX350 is not just an Urban traffic stress reducer, but a rolling work of art. Introduced in 2016, the 4th generation RX350, continues to outclass and outsell other luxury SUVs in the class.
There are a few additions to the aggressively designed RX for 2018, which includes a long-wheel base model that seats up to seven passengers. Lexus also extended the complimentary subscription to the Lexus Inform Safety and Service Connect, from one year to ten years.
When the Lexus RX350 entered the hot SUV market in 2016 with its bold combination of style, luxury, and versatility, it quickly began outselling many of its competitors in the segment. The RX350 has an eye-catching design that stands out among other SUVs in its class with sharp creases, curves and a large bold front grille. The design is so expressive that the RX appears to be speeding when parked.
The 2018 RX350 comes standard in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is optional. It’s powered by a 295 horsepower, 24-valve V-6, which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A long-wheel base RX350L is available with seven seats. The 2018 RX450h hybrid also offers a long-wheel base model with the RX450L. I test drove the RX350 AWD with the F Sports package, which has a more aggressive design and 20-inch wheels.
The RX350 was built for comfortable urban roads and traffic. It has an advanced full-time active torque control AWD system that receives input from the engine RPM, speed, steering angle, throttle opening angle and yaw rate to send more power to the rear wheels, while keeping all four wheels on the pavement.
A few of the features on the 2018 RX350 that I tested included the ability to change driving modes, 20-inch F Sport aluminum super chrome alloy wheels, F Sport leather interior trim, heated leather steering wheel, dual chrome exhaust, F Sport exterior trim, heated and ventilated F Sport front seats.
Safety features included 10 airbags: driver and passenger airbags, for the knee, front and rear sides, and curtains.
The Lexus RX350 has a choice of 11 scratch-resistant self-restoring colors, which uses a high-performance macromolecular polymer. Don’t ask me what color the test vehicle was? It was Nightfall Mica and beautiful.
Additional safety technology included the Lexus pre-collision system, with pedestrian detection, all-speed dynamic radar, intelligent high beam headlamps, lane departure alert with steering and stay-in-your lane assistance. Especially useful if you happen to doze off while driving.
Options included blind-spot monitoring with the ability to detect incoming rear traffic, a 12.3 inch display with navigation, 15-speaker premium audio package, Lexus Inform destinations and applications.
Inside the RX cabin feels like being in a luxury condo with luxury enhanced finishes, detailed brushed aluminum, wood trim, and plush leather.
The RX350 will comfortably seat five passengers, with ample space for several large suitcases or golf bags. The rear door can be opened by simply placing your hand near the Lexus emblem.
The MSRP starts at $43,470 and goes up to $50,520 for the fully loaded long wheel base model. For more information on specs, ratings and pricing click here.