People like many things about Lexus SUVs. These SUVs are usually praised for their approach to practical driving, limitless efficiency and utility in performance. If there is one Lexus SUV model that perfectly encapsulates these three features, it is the very popular 2019 Lexus RX 350. This year and model consistently stand out in modern luxury SUV rankings and yearly used car tier lists. The 2019 RX 350 is one of the automaker’s most classic and celebrated units.
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 is a midsize luxury SUV that combines elegant design, smooth performance, and advanced features. This much-venerated combination provides a balanced performance with exceptional practicality. If you are looking for a midsize SUV that will keep delivering again and again, then the 2019 RX 350 may be the vehicle for you. It remains a classic and luxurious choice for those prioritizing comfort and reliability over sporty/flashy performance.
Exterior Design and Build
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 redefines luxury SUVs with a sleek exterior and meticulous design elements. Its aerodynamic silhouette, characterized by sharp body lines and a floating roof design, embodies modern sophistication. The RX 350’s drag coefficient of 0.33 also enables it to achieve an optimal balance between efficiency and performance while maintaining a serene driving experience.
The bold spindle grille dominates the front, flanked by sleek LED headlights that integrate automatic high-beam technology for enhanced visibility. The added distinctive L-shaped LED daytime running lights underscore Lexus’ attention to minute detail, even while the sculpted bumper and pronounced air intakes highlight its assertive stance. Chrome accents along the grille and window frames also add an extra touch of elegance.
The RX 350 has 18-inch alloy wheels, but larger 20-inch wheels are available for a more commanding presence. Its extended wheelbase improves stability and contributes to the SUV’s poised and balanced look. At the rear, wraparound LED taillights seamlessly blend into the tailgate. A subtle rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and integrated reflectors enhance the sporty demeanor while improving aerodynamics.
Interior and Technology
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 combines luxurious interior craftsmanship with advanced technology, creating a refined and comfortable space. The interior layout emphasizes the drivers’ central command of the vehicle. This accounts for the 8-inch infotainment display, which is standard, with an upgrade to a 12.3-inch touchscreen available for enhanced visibility and control. The center console integrates intuitive audio, climate, and navigation controls, ensuring ease of use while driving.
The cabin offers premium leatherette upholstery as standard, with the option for semi-aniline leather seats for an elevated experience. Both front seats are power-adjustable, and heating and ventilation are available for added comfort. The driver’s seat includes memory settings for personalized convenience, while dual-zone climate control ensures optimal comfort for all passengers. Ambient lighting subtly enhances the interior’s modern aesthetic and creates a relaxing atmosphere for day or night drives.
Lexus integrates its Enform infotainment system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa, though Android Auto is absent. The system includes natural voice recognition for seamless control of navigation, calls, and media. The RX 350 also emphasizes sustainability with eco-conscious materials like bamboo or open-pore wood trim options. Safety and convenience features abound, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a hands-free power liftgate for easy cargo access.
Engine and Performance
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated engine offers smooth, consistent power delivery, making it an excellent choice for both city driving and highway cruising. The RX 350 engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, that achieves seamless shifts, ensuring a refined and responsive driving experience.
The SUV accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 7.7 seconds, providing ample speed for overtaking or merging on highways. The direct fuel injection system enhances combustion efficiency, improving overall performance while maintaining the engine’s smooth operation. The RX 350 also features dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This optimizes torque and power across the RPM range for better acceleration. The electronically controlled transmission is fine-tuned for precision, offering quick and intuitive gear changes.
Drivers will appreciate the engine’s refined nature, which remains composed even at higher speeds, minimizing noise and vibration in the cabin. The RX 350’s powertrain is further supported by a high-strength chassis that allows the engine to operate at peak efficiency without compromise. With a top speed of 124 MPH, the RX 350 delivers dependable performance for those who value reliability and capability in a luxury SUV.
Driving Experience and Handling
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 embodies luxury and deliberate smoothness in its driving experience. This is new in the midsize SUV segment, offering a driving experience tailored to comfort and practicality. Its naturally aspirated powertrain delivers smooth acceleration and confident highway performance on every drive. The responsive throttle tuning makes everyday drives feel effortless, while the engine’s refined operation ensures minimal noise and vibrations in the cabin.
The 2019 RX 350 also has a finely balanced suspension system designed to deliver stability and control on various road surfaces. Its advanced engine management system includes dual variable valve timing, optimizing power delivery and efficiency in both city and highway settings. The result is a vehicle that feels light and composed without sacrificing the capability needed for sharp maneuvers or challenging terrains. An electronically controlled 8-speed automatic transmission provides precise and seamless gear shifts, enhancing overall drivability.
The RX 350’s quasi-dual exhaust system boosts engine performance while maintaining a subdued yet refined exhaust note. This system adapts to driving conditions to ensure consistent power delivery and efficiency. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the RX 350 is versatile enough to handle a variety of driving conditions with ease.
Another highlight is the hill-start assist and intuitive drivetrain, which offer improved control during inclines and uneven surfaces. The SUV’s handling remains poised, and its lightweight yet rigid chassis complements its driving dynamics.
Fuel Economy
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 strikes an impressive balance between performance and fuel efficiency in the luxury SUV segment. Equipped with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, it achieves 22 mpg combined, 20 mpg in the city, and 27 mpg on the highway. This efficient powertrain allows for solid acceleration while maintaining strong fuel economy.
The RX 350 is an ideal option for both daily commutes and longer road trips. Lexus has optimized fuel consumption without compromising driving dynamics. The RX 350’s engine and transmission are tuned for efficiency, offering a smooth and responsive ride while keeping fuel costs in check.
Dimensions
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 has a 109.8-inch wheelbase, 192.5-inch length, 74.6-inch width, and 67.7-inch height. It offers 104.3 ft³ of passenger volume with an 18.4-ft3 ft³ trunk space, which expands to 56.3 ft³ with the rear seats folded down. The curb weight is 4,445 lbs, and the vehicle maintains a well-balanced front-to-rear weight distribution for improved handling.
The tire dimensions are 235/65R-18 at the front and 255/55R-18 at the rear. The RX 350’s high-strength steel frame and carefully engineered lightweight construction contribute to its rigidity and overall stability.
Shortcomings of the 2019 Lexus RX 350
While the 2019 Lexus RX 350 offers a smooth and reliable engine, its acceleration falls short of that of sportier rivals in the midsize luxury SUV class. Though the 0-60 MPH time of 7.7 seconds is adequate for daily driving, it lags behind competitors like the BMW X5 or Audi Q7, which provide more thrilling performance. The engine’s power delivery feels less dynamic under hard acceleration, making it less engaging for drivers seeking a sportier experience.
Also, the 2019 RX 350 struggles with limited cargo space compared to competitors in its segment. It has 18.4 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and a maximum of 56.3 cubic feet when folded, which is less room than rivals like the Acura MDX or Volvo XC90. This can become a challenge for families or travelers who need ample space for luggage or gear. Additionally, the high load floor can make it difficult to load heavier or bulkier items.
Furthermore, the infotainment system here feels painfully dated. A finicky Remote Touch interface controls it and has been a point of contention among drivers. The touchpad-style controller is much less intuitive than the rotary dials or touchscreen options found in competitors. Additionally, the lack of standard Android Auto integration in this model year is a glaring omission, especially when rivals like Mercedes-Benz and Audi offer more seamless smartphone connectivity. The overall user experience feels outdated and cumbersome, which can be frustrating for tech-savvy drivers.
The RX 350’s stylish, sloping roofline enhances its aesthetic appeal but compromises rear visibility. Thick rear pillars and a high beltline create sizable blind spots, making parking and lane changes more challenging. While the inclusion of a rearview camera and optional blind-spot monitoring helps mitigate these issues, the limited natural visibility can still pose difficulties in tight or crowded spaces. Drivers accustomed to clearer sightlines in competitors like the Volvo XC60 or Audi Q5 may find the RX 350’s design impractical.
Competitive Analysis
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 establishes itself as a benchmark in the luxury midsize SUV market. It competes against formidable rivals like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Volvo XC90, brands known for offering a unique blend of reliability and premium comfort. With its refined design, intuitive technology, and well-balanced performance, the RX 350 remains a strong contender in this competitive class. Its reputation for durability and low maintenance costs further enhances its appeal among luxury SUV buyers.
The RX 350’s 3.5-liter V6 engine is a key strength, delivering 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine propels the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a modest 7.7 seconds, making it more suited to actual everyday driving than other cars. A top speed of 124 mph reflects its capability, while precise braking distances and smooth acceleration ensure a composed driving experience. The RX’s emphasis on quietness and comfort also sets it apart in its segment.
Despite its SUV classification, the 2019 RX 350 is not as well-suited for off-road adventures as its able competitors. The front-wheel-drive base model and optional all-wheel-drive system are geared more toward light snow or wet pavement rather than rugged terrain. The RX 350 lacks features like locking differentials or adjustable ride height, which are standard in competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Land Rover Discovery Sport. Its ground clearance, while sufficient for urban driving, is not high enough for serious off-road challenges
However, in terms of affordability, the RX 350 strikes a balance between luxury and value. While competitors like the BMW X5 offer more dynamic handling, the RX 350 compensates with a serene ride, advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist, and a plush, spacious cabin. Its starting price, coupled with its legendary reliability, makes it an attractive option for families and professionals alike. For those prioritizing comfort, dependability, and premium design, the 2019 Lexus RX 350 remains an enduring choice in the midsize luxury SUV category.
Pricing
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 starts at $44,150, making it a competitively priced option in the luxury midsize SUV market. This base price includes a range of premium features, such as an 8-inch infotainment display, advanced safety systems like Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, and a 9-speaker audio system. Buyers can also opt for higher trims like the RX 350 F Sport. This upgraded trim offers sportier styling and performance-focused upgrades for a slightly higher price.
Certified pre-owned options for the RX 350 offer additional affordability. Depending on mileage and condition, used 2019 RX 350 prices typically range from $35,000 to $40,000. These vehicles come with Lexus’s CPO warranty, ensuring peace of mind while saving on upfront costs.
