The Lexus RX 350, specifically the third generation produced between 2009 and 2012, represented a significant evolution in the luxury crossover segment. This variant, equipped with the 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 275 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission marketed as ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent), occupied a central position in the RX lineup. It served as the primary volume seller, bridging the gap between the base RX 350 and the hybrid RX 450h models. The RX III generation (designated as XU30) built upon the success of its predecessors, offering increased refinement, improved interior space, and enhanced safety features, solidifying Lexus’s reputation for reliability and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX III |
| Type (Engine) | 350 V6 (275 Hp) ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp (145.1 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm (183.6 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 348 Nm @ 4700 rpm (256.67 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2521 kg (5557.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 626 kg (1380.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 446 l (15.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1570 l (55.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72.5 l (19.15 US gal | 15.95 UK gal) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2740 mm (107.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 995 mm (39.17 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 28.6° |
| Departure angle | 24.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 14.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 328 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 310 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18; 235/55 VR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Lexus RX 350 (XU30) launched in 2009 as a replacement for the second-generation RX. It continued the model’s tradition of blending luxury, comfort, and practicality in a crossover package. The 3.5-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission combination was the mainstay of the RX lineup, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency that appealed to a broad range of buyers. This variant was particularly popular in the North American market, where luxury SUVs were in high demand. The RX 350 aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience than some of its competitors while maintaining Lexus’s renowned build quality and reliability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RX 350 is the 2GR-FE 3.5-liter dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) V6 engine. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and Lexus’s Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system. The VVT-i system optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both power and fuel economy. The engine produces 275 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 256.67 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, branded as ECT-i, provides smooth and responsive shifting. While not a sport-tuned transmission, it was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering adequate acceleration and comfortable cruising. The transmission featured electronically controlled shift points and a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 with the 3.5-liter V6 and automatic transmission delivered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.4 seconds, which was competitive for its class. The automatic transmission provided seamless gear changes, and the engine offered ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. Compared to the RX 450h hybrid, the RX 350 felt slightly less responsive off the line due to the lack of electric motor assistance. However, it offered a more traditional driving feel that some drivers preferred. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, and the available all-wheel-drive system enhanced stability in inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 350 came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium audio system, and a rearview camera. Available options included a navigation system, Mark Levinson premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power rear liftgate. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally included base, Premium, and Luxury packages. The Premium package added features like a sunroof and upgraded audio, while the Luxury package included features like wood trim and semi-aniline leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 featured an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The braking performance was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus RX 350 was widely praised by critics for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong reliability. It consistently ranked highly in consumer satisfaction surveys. Compared to competitors like the Acura MDX and BMW X5, the RX 350 offered a more comfortable and refined driving experience, but lacked the sporty handling of some European rivals. Fuel economy was average for its class, with combined EPA ratings of around 21 mpg. The RX 450h hybrid offered significantly better fuel economy, but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The third-generation Lexus RX 350 has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle. The 2GR-FE engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these RX 350s continue to hold their value well, thanks to Lexus’s reputation for quality and reliability. Common maintenance items include routine oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations. While some owners have reported minor issues with the navigation system or infotainment system, the powertrain has generally proven to be very dependable, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable luxury crossover.
