2015 Lexus RX 350

2015 Lexus RX 350

The 2015 Lexus RX 350 and RX 400h deliver sensible luxury and excellent comfort — boldness not necessarily included (or desired).

• Interior / Exterior »

Understated is probably the best way to describe the styling of the 2015 Lexus RX family. Although there are exceptions, these models remain some of the least bold and showy in their class. But in many respects, that’s what shoppers like, and it’s why the RX has been such a success with those who don’t want to be so ostentatious.

Looking all the way back to the late 1990s, the RX’s shape and silhouette hasn’t changed much, which almost makes its styling iconic at this point. It’s more conservative and innocuous than edgy or aggressive, and Lexus has played it safe with the RX since the beginning. Last year Lexus gave its RX models a light refresh for the first time since these third-generation models bowed in 2010. That meant the substitution of the new ‘spindle grille’ and a somewhat more menacing look in front, while the snub-nosed, blunt-shouldered purposefulness–crossed with soft elegance–of the design otherwise remains. The changes last year also included LED running lamps, new rear taillights, and a few new colors.

Refinement remains the focus inside–along with a matching level of understated luxury. The interior of the RX continues with the same design that divides driver controls visually from the passenger zone—leaving a large swath of silver-painted plastic in place of the previous-generation’s more subdued wood-grained look. Likewise, Lexus appears to have addressed a complaint of ours–that the current RX didn’t feel as rich inside as before–by adding contrast stitching, and adding new Ebony Bird’s Eye Maple and Saddle Leather interior options. This year, the new F Sport model gains a rich Cabernet leather-trimmed interior, while all models get a redesigned center console, a new steering wheel, and contrast stitching for the leather.
A final note about appearances: Don’t expect the RX 450h to flaunt your eco-conscious intent. In the hybrid it’s mostly a matter of badging, with the differences amounting to some hybrid logos and badges plus blue-lit gauges and a few other subtle differences.

• Performance »

Even though the performance of the 2015 Lexus RX 350 and 450h is entirely competitive in its class, it’s clear that it takes second stage to comfort and luxury. Parents or empty nesters will find the RX plenty responsive in either guise, although it’s seldom exciting, edgy, or nimble, and there’s a muted feeling to all of the driving inputs.

Power comes from a 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive an option. Even with the heavier AWD system, the RX 350 steps off the line quickly and smoothly, and shifts during passing are quick yet downright seamless.
Hybrid RX 450h models perform nearly as well–in an absolute sense, though they manage to mute out even more of the outside world through the steering and brakes.

They pair a 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 with a version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive—one that, interestingly, electrically drives the rear wheels in all-wheel-drive form. Drive the hybrid gently and you’ll glide from stops in electric-only mode, with the V-6 almost imperceptibly kicking on at 20 or 25 mph. Drive it a little more rapidly, to go with the flow of traffic, and the V-6 thrums on and off in the background, with the continuously variable transmission generally keeping the revs well below 2500 rpm unless you’re close to full throttle. A Sport Mode was new to the Hybrid a couple of model years ago, bringing revised throttle mapping (with more aggressive tip-in) plus different transmission shift points, and that might make some difference.
Otherwise, there’s plenty to The RX carries itself over the road with the same sort of muted, comfort-oriented feel that you’ll find in the brand’s other conservative models like the ES and LS sedans; the down side of this is that there’s really no feedback to speak of through the steering wheel.
There is one model in the lineup for which performance doesn’t actually take second stage. Go for the 2015 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, and in addition to a more performance-oriented look inside and out you get an eight-speed automatic transmission instead, along with steering-wheel paddle-shifters, special twist-spoke 19-inch alloys, and a sport-tuned suspension. Although we haven’t spent any time with this model yet, it should bring a more eager, responsive driving experience without all that much sacrifice.

The Lexus RX brought on a completely new segment — that of luxurious crossover vehicles — when it was introduced fifteen years ago. And today it remains what it’s always been: a plush counter to rugged utes, focused far more around suburban life than boulders and brawn. Plenty of alternatives have emerged; but among those who still prioritize passenger comfort and a refined cabin experience, the 2015 RX remains a top pick.

While the upcoming 2015 Lexus NX takes a more daring path, the 2015 Lexus RX remains true to its original formula; it’s a comfortable, understated utility vehicle, and its reputation for being trouble-free, for excellent dealership service, and for holding its value continues to convince shoppers to choose the RX over many models that are showier and sportier. On the other hand, that’s part of the appeal, too; the RX is premium, but not garish, and it’s understated in just the right ways to appeal to those who don’t want to be too ostentatious.

Last year Lexus gave its RX models a light refresh for the first time since these third-generation models bowed in 2010. That meant the substitution of the new ‘spindle grille’ and a somewhat more menacing look in front, while the snub-nosed, blunt-shouldered purposefulness–crossed with soft elegance–of the design otherwise remains. The changes last year also included LED running lamps, new rear taillights, and a few new colors, as well as a redesigned center console, a new steering wheel, and contrast stitching for the leather.

If there’s a clear pronouncement to make about the RX 350 and 450h, it’s that performance takes second stage to comfort and luxury. While parents or empty nesters will find the RX plenty responsive in either guise, it’s seldom exciting, edgy, or nimble, and there’s a muted feeling to all of the driving inputs. Power comes from a 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive an option. Even with the heavier AWD system, the RX 350 steps off the line quickly and smoothly, and shifts during passing are quick yet downright seamless. Hybrid models perform nearly as well–in an absolute sense, though they manage to mute out even more of the outside world through the steering and brakes.

There is one model in the lineup for which performance doesn’t actually take second stage. Go for the 2015 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, and in addition to a more performance-oriented look inside and out you get an eight-speed automatic transmission instead, along with steering-wheel paddle-shifters, special twist-spoke 19-inch alloys, and a sport-tuned suspension. Although we haven’t spent any time with this model yet, it should bring a more eager, responsive driving experience without all that much sacrifice.
As for the rest of the lineup, which includes the 2014 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h, expect plus (but not over-the-top lavish) interiors, and a wholesomeness to the overall design, with versatile and roomy seating and a passenger experience that’s nearly as refined as what you’d fine in flagship sedans like Lexus’ own LS. Just a short ride in one is enough to see why it’s such a popular choice for upscale realtors who don’t want to look filthy-rich. The only gripes about the interior remain that the front seats seem a little too flat and unsupportive for the mission, and that if you opt for one of the showier wheel options the ride can become somewhat busier.

The Lexus RX has been an impressive (although not quite top-tier) crash-test performer in recent model years, and it offers ten airbags, including side bags for the rear seats. A hill-hold function helps allow for smooth launches when stopped on slippery, steep terrain, and the rearview camera helps with parking and backing out of the driveway, especially since the rear pillar can get in the way of visibility. The PCS collision avoidance system uses radar sensors to detect a possible impact, and now pre-brakes the vehicle to potentially lessen the severity of a crash. Adaptive lighting and automatic high beams are optional.
Lexus vehicles have a reputation for being exceptionally well-equipped, as well as refined and comfortable. That’s definitely the case here in the RX 350 and RX 450h; you’ll find a comprehensive list of comfort and convenience features, while options are pretty much limited to interior upgrades and top-notch infotainment systems. Major options include leather; a USB port; navigation with real-time traffic; a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; and a superb Mark Levinson sound system. There’s also an AC outlet behind the rear seat.
The Remote Touch controller, which has been redesigned modestly this year (essentially still a mouse/trackpad that requires you to look at the screen a little more than other systems) remains a mandatory part of the interface that we’re conflicted about, but nearly everyone will like that the new Enform system enables apps for Pandora streaming audio and other information services. Last year Lexus introduced a “Siri Eyes Free Mode” for the system, allowing you to integrate some iPhone models with the RX’s voice-command system. This year Lexus follows that with refreshed Display Audio systems across the model line.
Photo Gallery: Lexus USA

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