Cars OnBoard: The 2019 Lexus RX 350: provisioning for the weekend
May 23, 2019
The towing capacity is an ample 1,585 kg
Finding a car brand that you enjoy while it does what you need can be tough, as they can be different from vehicle to vehicle. But, one of the best things I find about driving a Lexus is the fact that it is very easy to get use to due its simple controls and the great neutral handling of the brand and the RX 350 was no exception.
The RX is the middle model in the Lexus line of SUVs, not too small to handle the needs a family and not too big to make it difficult to park at the marina. The sharp edge styling falls in line with the Lexus family of vehicles that I find attractive. The cars have generous sized doors making getting in and out easy as well as a large hatch to make getting gear, cushions etc easy to load.
As you might expect from the Lexus line, the interior is stylish and well-appointed with all the luxury features one has come to expect with an SUV like this. Stepping into the driver’s seat you find all the vital controls easy to reach and in most cases easy to find. The RX has in most cases button controls so you don’t have to scroll through multiple LED screens to make simple changes to driver comfort.
The RX I had to test had the traditional tachometer, speedometer as well as fuel and temperature gauges in front of the driver, which I like. Between the tach and speedo, a screen allows for variable information as well as controls for various applications like the clock. This RX I was testing also had the HUD or heads up display which showed the speed and engine speed, which half the time I had turned off as the gauges are easy to read at a glance.
Unlike this press kit photo, my test RX had the dark brown leather that complimented the dark blue exterior. The front seats were comfortable with plenty of power adjustments for any sized driver. One interesting feature was the adjustable rear seats which when carrying family and friends long distances makes for a much more comfortable trip.
As for the cargo area in the back the RX handled a big provisioning run for my wife and I prior to a cruise weekend. Loading and unloading was easy enough, but being an SUV it might be a little challenging for those a little shorter. Also, I would advise the optional mats as the lovely carpets would soon be worn with constant use or wet items.
Power comes on fast with 295Hp. at your disposal, so getting on any highway is very easy. The 3.5L V6 gets reasonable fuel consumption around the city if you can control your acceleration, which is sometimes hard to do. The stiffer suspension adds to good handling of the RX on city streets, highway or towing. One nice feature is the hill holder feature of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with holds the RX on upward slopes.
Enhancing the RX 350s handling are standard 18in. wheels, my test vehicle had the optional 20in. wheels that I have to admit look good. Now, if you are inclined to tow, the RX 350 with tow up to 3500lbs. (1585kg) which is more than adequate in a luxury SUV.
The RX 350 is a good all-around family vehicle and with the Lexus/Toyota over built quality built into vehicle I would not hesitate in recommending a Lexus. I have found over the years that Lexus buyers tend to be repeat customers which says a lot looking for a well-equipped vehicle like I tested at $70,800 plus taxes.
Price: $55,350 as tested $70,800
Engine: 3.5L DOHC variable valve V6
Horsepower: 295 @ 6300rpm.
Torque: 268lb.ft. @ 4700rpm
Transmission: Continuously Variable (CVT)
Fuel Consumption: 12.2L per 100Km city & 9L per 100Km highway
Glen Konorowski is a life long automotive enthusiast and automotive journalist for 35-years. He also claims to be former Commodore of the Monty Carlo Yacht Club!
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