The Lexus RX 350, specifically the fourth generation (RX IV) produced between 2016 and 2019, represents a significant evolution in the luxury crossover segment. This variant, powered by the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, served as the mainstay of the RX lineup during those years. Positioned as the volume seller, it offered a balance of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency aimed at a broad range of luxury SUV buyers. The RX IV generation, built on the K platform, introduced a more aggressive exterior design and a significantly upgraded interior, solidifying the RX’s reputation for refinement and reliability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX IV |
| Type (Engine) | 350 V6 (300 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 363 Nm @ 4700 rpm (267.74 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FKS |
| 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 | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-iW |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 553 l (19.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1587 kg (3498.74 lbs.) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2789 mm (109.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RX 350 is the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter dual injection DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct injection and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The direct injection component improves fuel economy and reduces emissions, while the port injection enhances throttle response. The engine also features Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) on the intake valves, further enhancing performance and efficiency. The 8-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the 6-speed unit in previous generations, provides smooth and responsive shifting. This transmission is designed to maximize fuel efficiency while providing ample power for acceleration and highway cruising. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between performance and economy, with a relatively tall final drive ratio to improve fuel consumption.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350 with the 3.5L V6 and 8-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports SUV, it offers adequate acceleration for most driving situations. The 300 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque provide sufficient power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The 8-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in smooth and predictable acceleration. Compared to the hybrid RX 450h, the RX 350 offers a more traditional driving feel, with a more direct connection between the throttle and the engine. Compared to potential higher trims with optional all-wheel drive, the front-wheel drive configuration of this variant offers slightly better fuel economy but less traction in inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 350 came in several trim levels, with the base model offering a generous amount of standard equipment. Standard features typically included Lexus Safety System+, which incorporates pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with intelligent steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior features included a 8-inch infotainment display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system. Higher trim levels, such as the Luxury and F Sport, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Optional extras included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350 features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, tuned for a comfortable ride. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and irregularities in the road, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience. The front-wheel drive configuration contributes to a lower curb weight, which helps to improve handling and fuel efficiency. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) enhance safety and stability during braking maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RX 350 was consistently well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and strong reliability. Fuel economy was generally considered acceptable for its class, although it lagged behind hybrid competitors. Compared to other luxury crossovers, such as the Acura RDX and the BMW X3, the RX 350 offered a more comfortable and luxurious experience, but it was not as sporty to drive. The RX 350’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs made it a popular choice among buyers seeking a long-term ownership experience.
Legacy
The 2GR-FKS engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While some early models experienced issues with oil consumption, these were largely addressed through software updates and minor hardware revisions. The 8-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be reliable, with few reported issues. As a result, the RX 350 remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of luxury, reliability, and value. Its continued presence on the road is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality and durability.
