Lexus RX 350 F Sport Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Lexus RX 350 F Sport. If you're in the market for a luxury SUV that blends sporty appeal with everyday practicality, this might be right up your alley. We're going to break down everything – from performance and handling to interior comfort and tech features – to help you decide if the RX 350 F Sport is worth your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the F Sport Special?

When you hear "F Sport," think of Lexus' way of adding a dash of athleticism to their already luxurious vehicles. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; it comes with several performance-enhancing features that set it apart from the standard RX 350. One of the most noticeable differences is the sport-tuned suspension. This upgrade firms up the ride, reducing body roll and providing a more engaging driving experience. You'll feel more connected to the road, especially on winding routes, which is a big plus if you enjoy a spirited drive. Another key feature is the unique exterior styling. The F Sport boasts a distinctive mesh grille, exclusive alloy wheel designs, and sporty bumpers that give it a more aggressive and dynamic look. These visual cues immediately signal that this isn't your average luxury SUV. Inside, you'll find sport seats with enhanced bolstering to keep you snug during cornering, aluminum pedals, and unique interior trim options that amplify the sporty ambiance. The F Sport also includes performance-inspired instrumentation, such as aluminum pedals and scuff plates, adding to the athletic feel. Beyond the aesthetics and handling improvements, the F Sport often includes tech upgrades like a performance-inspired instrument cluster and paddle shifters, giving you more control over the vehicle's dynamics. All these features combine to create a driving experience that’s both refined and exhilarating, making the RX 350 F Sport a compelling option for those who crave a bit more excitement in their daily drive. The F Sport package elevates the RX 350 beyond its luxurious comfort, injecting a dose of sporty performance and styling that sets it apart from the standard model. If you’re after a luxury SUV with a bolder character and a more engaging driving experience, the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.

Performance and Handling: Does It Deliver?

Let's talk about what's under the hood and how it translates to the road. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which churns out a healthy 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. Now, while these numbers might not scream "sports car," they provide ample power for everyday driving and confident highway cruising. The engine is smooth and responsive, offering a refined driving experience that Lexus is known for. The eight-speed automatic transmission complements the engine well, delivering seamless gear changes and contributing to the overall smoothness. In terms of acceleration, the RX 350 F Sport can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.8 seconds, which is respectable for an SUV of this size. But it's not just about straight-line speed; the F Sport's handling is where it truly shines. The sport-tuned suspension, as mentioned earlier, makes a significant difference. It reduces body roll in corners, providing a more planted and stable feel. The steering is also more precise and responsive compared to the standard RX 350, giving you better control and feedback. While it's not going to rival a sports car on a track, the RX 350 F Sport offers a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience than many of its competitors in the luxury SUV segment. The all-wheel-drive system (available as an option) further enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. This makes the RX 350 F Sport a capable and confident performer year-round. Overall, the performance and handling of the RX 350 F Sport strike a good balance between comfort and sportiness. It's not an outright performance machine, but it offers a more dynamic and engaging driving experience than the standard RX 350, making it a compelling choice for those who want a bit more excitement behind the wheel. The combination of a smooth V6 engine, responsive transmission, and sport-tuned suspension delivers a driving experience that is both refined and enjoyable.

Interior and Technology: Luxury Meets Innovation

Stepping inside the Lexus RX 350 F Sport, you're greeted with a cabin that blends luxury with modern technology. The interior design is elegant and well-crafted, with high-quality materials used throughout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, especially the sport seats in the F Sport trim, which offer enhanced bolstering to keep you snug during cornering. The cabin is spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats also recline, adding to the comfort for those in the back. In terms of technology, the RX 350 F Sport comes standard with a range of features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity. The infotainment system is centered around a large touchscreen display, which provides access to navigation, audio controls, and various vehicle settings. While the infotainment system can take some getting used to, it offers a wide range of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The RX 350 F Sport also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road. Other notable tech features include a premium sound system, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof. The sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, while the head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of spaciousness and brings more natural light into the cabin. Overall, the interior and technology of the RX 350 F Sport offer a luxurious and modern experience. The cabin is well-appointed and comfortable, with a range of tech features designed to enhance convenience and safety. While the infotainment system may take some getting used to, it offers a wide range of functionality, making the RX 350 F Sport a compelling choice in the luxury SUV segment. The combination of premium materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology creates a refined and enjoyable driving environment.

Fuel Economy and Practicality: Living with the RX 350 F Sport

Okay, let's get practical. How does the Lexus RX 350 F Sport fare in terms of fuel economy and everyday usability? The RX 350 F Sport is rated at around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is decent for a V6-powered SUV of this size. Of course, your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. In terms of practicality, the RX 350 F Sport offers a good amount of cargo space, with around 18.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This should be sufficient for most everyday needs, such as grocery shopping or weekend trips. The RX 350 F Sport also offers a comfortable ride, making it well-suited for long journeys. The seats are supportive, and the cabin is quiet, minimizing fatigue on long drives. The RX 350 F Sport also comes with a range of convenient features, such as a power liftgate and keyless entry, which make everyday life a little easier. The power liftgate allows you to open and close the trunk with the touch of a button, while keyless entry allows you to unlock the doors without having to fumble for your keys. In terms of reliability, Lexus has a strong reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the RX 350 F Sport is no exception. It's likely to provide years of trouble-free service with proper maintenance. Overall, the RX 350 F Sport strikes a good balance between fuel economy and practicality. It's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, but it offers decent mileage for its size and performance. It also provides ample cargo space and a comfortable ride, making it well-suited for everyday use. The combination of reliability, convenience, and practicality makes the RX 350 F Sport a compelling choice for those looking for a luxury SUV that can handle daily life with ease. The RX 350 F Sport blends luxury and practicality, offering a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a reputation for reliability.

Is the Lexus RX 350 F Sport Worth It?

So, after dissecting the Lexus RX 350 F Sport from every angle, the big question remains: is it worth it? The answer, as with most things, depends on your priorities and preferences. If you're looking for a luxury SUV that offers a blend of sporty appeal, comfortable ride, and advanced technology, the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. The F Sport package adds a dash of excitement to the already luxurious RX 350, with its sport-tuned suspension, unique styling, and performance-inspired features. It's not going to transform the RX 350 into a sports car, but it does make it more engaging and enjoyable to drive. The interior is well-appointed and comfortable, with a range of tech features designed to enhance convenience and safety. The RX 350 F Sport also offers decent fuel economy and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for everyday use. However, if you're primarily concerned with fuel economy or outright performance, there may be other SUVs that better suit your needs. The RX 350 F Sport is not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, and it's not as sporty as some other performance-oriented SUVs. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the RX 350 F Sport is worth it comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you value a blend of luxury, sportiness, and practicality, it's definitely worth a look. But if you prioritize fuel economy or outright performance above all else, you may want to consider other options. Overall, the RX 350 F Sport is a well-rounded and compelling luxury SUV that offers a unique blend of style, performance, and comfort. If it aligns with your priorities, it's definitely worth considering. The RX 350 F Sport is a strong contender in the luxury SUV market, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and comfort that makes it worth considering for those seeking a well-rounded vehicle.