Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive into a detailed 2017 Lexus RX 350 review based on Edmunds' insights. The 2017 RX 350, a staple in the luxury SUV market, offers a blend of comfort, reliability, and style that has made it a favorite among drivers. We'll explore everything from its performance and interior to its technology and overall value. This review aims to give you a clear picture of what makes the 2017 Lexus RX 350 tick, helping you decide if it's the right SUV for your needs. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Driving Experience

When you're behind the wheel, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 delivers a smooth and composed driving experience. Edmunds' reviewers often highlight its refined ride quality, which is a hallmark of the Lexus brand. The RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving, including merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and contributes to the overall feeling of effortless performance. While it's not designed for sporty handling, the RX 350 offers responsive steering and predictable handling, making it easy and enjoyable to drive. Many reviews emphasize the quietness of the cabin, which further enhances the sense of luxury and comfort. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the RX 350 provides a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.

One of the key aspects of the RX 350's performance is its versatility. It's equally at home in urban environments and on open highways. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) option provides added confidence and stability in various weather conditions, making it a practical choice for those living in areas with snow or rain. The vehicle's braking system is also noteworthy, providing strong and consistent stopping power. Edmunds and other reviewers frequently mention the RX 350's reliability. Lexus has built a reputation for producing dependable vehicles, and the RX 350 is no exception. This reliability translates into lower long-term ownership costs and peace of mind for owners. In summary, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 excels in providing a comfortable, refined, and reliable driving experience. Its smooth engine, responsive handling, and quiet cabin make it an ideal choice for drivers seeking a luxurious and practical SUV.

Engine and Transmission Details

The heart of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is its robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating a healthy 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which is engineered for seamless gear changes and optimal fuel efficiency. Edmunds and other experts frequently praise the engine's smooth power delivery and the transmission's responsiveness. The combination of the engine and transmission ensures that the RX 350 is capable of both spirited acceleration and relaxed cruising. The vehicle's acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is typically achieved in around 7.7 seconds, which is competitive for its class. The transmission also features manual shift mode, allowing drivers to take more control when desired. Fuel economy is another key consideration for many buyers, and the RX 350 offers respectable numbers for its class. The estimated fuel economy for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model is around 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model achieves slightly better figures. These numbers are often highlighted in reviews as evidence of the RX 350's balance between performance and efficiency.

Moreover, the engine's design incorporates advanced technologies to enhance both performance and efficiency. Features like variable valve timing optimize combustion, contributing to the engine's smooth operation and responsiveness. The transmission's adaptive shift logic further enhances the driving experience by adjusting to the driver's habits and road conditions. This intelligent design ensures that the RX 350 always feels well-suited to the task at hand. The engine is also known for its reliability, a characteristic that is highly valued by Lexus owners. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can help ensure that the engine continues to perform optimally for years to come. In essence, the engine and transmission of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 are designed to provide a blend of performance, efficiency, and reliability, making it a compelling choice in the luxury SUV segment.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Lexus RX 350, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and comfort. Edmunds' reviews consistently highlight the high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and thoughtful design of the interior. The seats are upholstered in premium materials, providing excellent support and comfort for both short commutes and long journeys. The front seats are often praised for their adjustability, allowing drivers and passengers to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making the RX 350 a comfortable choice for families. The interior design is elegant and functional, with a focus on user-friendliness. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The infotainment system, typically controlled via a large touchscreen, offers a range of features, including navigation, smartphone integration, and audio controls. The use of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, along with wood or metal trim accents, creates a premium feel that enhances the overall driving experience.

The RX 350 is also equipped with a range of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Standard features often include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and keyless entry with push-button start. Higher trim levels may include features such as heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. The vehicle's noise insulation is also noteworthy, minimizing road and wind noise to create a quiet and serene environment inside the cabin. The cargo space is generous, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the RX 350 a practical choice for those with an active lifestyle. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers. Its high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and array of features make it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

Infotainment and Technology

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 comes loaded with technology to keep you connected and entertained. Edmunds' reviews often commend the infotainment system for its features and user-friendliness. The standard infotainment system typically includes a large touchscreen display, which serves as the central hub for navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration. Lexus typically offers its own user interface, which provides a clean and intuitive experience. The system often includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The RX 350 also often comes equipped with a premium audio system, providing exceptional sound quality for an immersive listening experience. Higher trim levels may feature even more advanced audio systems.

The technology extends beyond the infotainment system. The RX 350 often includes a range of driver-assistance features designed to enhance safety and convenience. These features may include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The adaptive cruise control system helps to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, while the lane departure warning system alerts you if you drift out of your lane. Blind-spot monitoring provides an added layer of safety by alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots. The RX 350 also may offer a surround-view camera system, providing a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The inclusion of these technologies not only enhances the driving experience but also contributes to a higher level of safety on the road. Overall, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 offers a well-integrated suite of technology features that cater to both entertainment and safety needs.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority in the 2017 Lexus RX 350, and Edmunds' reviews consistently praise its strong safety ratings and advanced safety features. The RX 350 typically earns high marks in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings provide reassurance to drivers and passengers, knowing that the vehicle is designed to protect them in the event of a collision. The RX 350 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features often include antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are often available, further enhancing safety. These systems may include features like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Beyond safety features, the RX 350 has a strong reputation for reliability. Lexus vehicles are known for their durability and longevity, and the RX 350 is no exception. Edmunds and other sources frequently highlight the vehicle's low maintenance costs and its ability to withstand the test of time. This reliability translates into peace of mind for owners, as well as lower long-term ownership costs. The RX 350's strong safety ratings, coupled with its reliable performance, make it a safe and dependable choice for drivers. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a long road trip, you can feel confident knowing that the RX 350 is designed to protect you and your passengers. The combination of advanced safety features and a reputation for reliability makes the 2017 Lexus RX 350 a standout in its class.

Safety Features Breakdown

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 is packed with safety features designed to protect occupants and assist the driver. Edmunds' reviews often detail these features, highlighting their effectiveness and contribution to the vehicle's overall safety profile. Standard safety features often include antilock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a comprehensive airbag system. ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. ESC helps to maintain vehicle stability by detecting and correcting oversteer or understeer. The airbag system typically includes front airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags for the front and rear seats, and side curtain airbags to protect occupants from head injuries in the event of a side impact. The availability of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) further enhances safety.

These systems often include forward collision warning (FCW) with automatic emergency braking (AEB), which can alert the driver to a potential collision and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Lane departure warning (LDW) alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, and lane-keeping assist (LKA) can provide steering assistance to help the vehicle stay within its lane. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the vehicle's speed to match the flow of traffic. Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot, making lane changes safer. Rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space or driveway. The availability of these ADAS features significantly enhances the safety of the RX 350, providing drivers with added peace of mind and helping to prevent accidents. The combination of standard and available safety features makes the 2017 Lexus RX 350 a safe and reliable choice for drivers.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Edmunds' reviews often provide detailed insights into the differences between the trim levels. The base model typically offers a solid array of standard features, including a V6 engine, an automatic transmission, and a comfortable interior. Moving up the trim levels, you'll find additional features such as upgraded upholstery, a premium audio system, and advanced technology. The F Sport trim is designed for drivers who desire a sportier driving experience. It typically features sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling elements, and performance-oriented interior enhancements.

Optional features and packages also provide further customization options. These may include features like a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a navigation system. The availability of these options allows buyers to tailor the RX 350 to their specific needs and preferences. The choice of trim level and options can significantly impact the overall price of the vehicle, so it's important to carefully consider which features are most important to you. Edmunds' reviews and other sources provide valuable information about the different trim levels and options, helping you make an informed decision. Some common trim levels include the base model, the Luxury trim, and the F Sport trim. Each trim level offers a unique blend of features, performance, and style, allowing you to choose the RX 350 that best suits your needs and budget. The availability of options such as advanced driver-assistance systems and a premium audio system further enhances the appeal of higher trim levels.

Key Trim Level Features

To give you a better idea, let's break down some key features associated with the various trim levels of the 2017 Lexus RX 350. The base model typically offers a well-equipped package, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a host of standard features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and a touchscreen infotainment system. This base model provides a solid foundation of luxury and convenience. The Luxury trim elevates the experience with added features like premium leather upholstery, wood trim accents, and upgraded interior trim. It often includes features designed to enhance comfort and convenience, such as heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, and a premium audio system.

The F Sport trim is designed for drivers seeking a sportier driving experience. It typically features a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling elements, such as a mesh grille and specific alloy wheels, and performance-oriented interior enhancements, such as sport seats and aluminum pedals. The F Sport trim may also include paddle shifters for manual gear selection. Optional packages and individual options are available across all trim levels. These may include features like a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, a navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Edmunds reviews and other resources provide detailed information on the specific features included with each trim level and optional package, helping you to make an informed decision when choosing the 2017 Lexus RX 350 that best suits your needs and preferences. Each trim level caters to a different set of priorities, from the well-rounded base model to the luxurious Luxury trim and the sporty F Sport variant.

Edmunds' Overall Impression and Verdict

Edmunds' overall impression of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers consistently praise its blend of luxury, comfort, and reliability. The RX 350's refined ride quality, quiet cabin, and high-quality interior materials create a luxurious and enjoyable driving experience. The V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving, and the eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and effortless gear changes. Edmunds and other experts frequently highlight the RX 350's strong safety ratings and advanced safety features, making it a safe and dependable choice for drivers. The vehicle's reputation for reliability is another significant factor contributing to its positive overall impression. Lexus vehicles are known for their durability and longevity, and the RX 350 is no exception.

Edmunds' verdict on the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is that it's a top contender in the luxury SUV segment. Its blend of comfort, reliability, and style makes it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded and practical vehicle. The RX 350 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and a host of advanced features. While it may not be the sportiest SUV in its class, its focus on comfort and reliability makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The vehicle's strong resale value and low maintenance costs further enhance its appeal. Edmunds typically recommends the RX 350 as a top pick in the luxury SUV segment, highlighting its strengths in comfort, reliability, and overall value. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 is a testament to Lexus' commitment to producing high-quality and dependable vehicles.

Pros and Cons Summary

To help you get a quick overview, let's sum up the pros and cons of the 2017 Lexus RX 350, as highlighted in Edmunds' reviews and other expert analyses. The pros often include its comfortable ride quality, refined interior, and strong reliability record. The RX 350 is known for its quiet cabin, high-quality materials, and well-appointed interior, creating a luxurious and enjoyable driving experience. Its powerful and smooth V6 engine, along with its responsive automatic transmission, provide ample power for everyday driving. The vehicle's strong safety ratings and advanced safety features offer added peace of mind. Lexus' reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs contributes to its long-term value. On the cons side, some reviewers may point out that the RX 350's infotainment system can be a bit cumbersome to use due to its touchpad interface.

Also, the RX 350 is not the sportiest SUV in its class, with its focus primarily on comfort and refinement rather than outright performance. The styling, while appealing to many, may not be to everyone's taste. The fuel economy, while respectable, may not be as high as some of its competitors. However, the RX 350's pros generally outweigh the cons. Its comfortable ride, refined interior, strong safety ratings, and excellent reliability make it a top contender in the luxury SUV segment. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 delivers a well-rounded package of luxury, comfort, and reliability, making it a highly desirable choice for drivers seeking a premium SUV experience. These pros and cons offer a balanced view, helping you evaluate if the RX 350 is the right fit for your needs and preferences.