The RX350 is probably the most coveted SUV in Nigeria as well as one of the most popular C-SUVs on the global automotive market. With 96,041 units sold last year, the RX models became, yet again, the best-selling luxury vehicles in the USA, with the figure including both gas-powered and electric hybrid models. We should also note that with 3.5 million global sales, the RX is essentially the best-selling Lexus automobile.
In case you're wondering what fuels the RX's popularity, the answer is what Edmunds described as "an ongoing quality build with a roomy and comfort-focused cabin." However, the RX, especially the RX350, is much more than its quality build and streamlined interior. The SUV's exceptional aesthetics over the years, with all those luxurious interior details, a high level of practicality, and a robust powertrain, contributes to its entrenched popularity with auto shoppers – both families and individuals.
The Lexus RX 350 is a luxury SUV that has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for many years. Its powerful AWD system improves the much-needed traction necessary to navigate Nigerian roads safely and easily. It is known for its sleek design, outstanding performance, and innovative features. This article will explore the ten coolest features of the Lexus RX 350.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with a 295-horsepower V6 engine producing 267 lb-ft of torque. It’s a powerful mill that propels the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds. The 24-valve DOHC (dual overhead cam) V6 engine uses advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver impressive power and efficiency. Here are some technical details of the engine:
- Displacement: 3.5 liters (3,456 cc)
- Bore x Stroke: 3.7 in x 3.3 in (94 mm x 83 mm)
- Compression Ratio: 11.8:1 - Maximum Power Output: 295 horsepower at 6,300 rpm
- Maximum Torque Output: 267 lb-ft at 4,700 rpm
- Fuel Delivery: Direct fuel injection
- Valve Train: Dual overhead cam (DOHC), four valves per cylinder
- Variable Valve Timing: Dual VVT-i (intake and exhaust)
- Ignition System: Electronic ignition system with iridium spark plugs
- Engine Management System: Electronic control system with intelligent variable valve timing (VVT-iW)
- Emissions Rating: LEV III ULEV70
- Fuel Efficiency: EPA-estimated 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway (FWD), 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway (AWD)
Lexus paired the engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual control. It also includes an automatic stop/start system that shuts off the engine when the vehicle is idle to conserve fuel.
One of the coolest features of the Lexus RX 350 is its suite of advanced safety features thoughtfully designed to protect its passengers as well as other road users in case of an accident. Here are some of the key safety features:
The Lexus RX 350 also features a strong body structure and advanced safety cage design to help absorb impact forces and protect the occupants in the event of a collision.
The interior of the Lexus RX 350 got designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience. The seats got upholstered in high-quality leather, and the cabin is spacious enough to accommodate up to five passengers. The vehicle also comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display providing easier access to the various features and functions.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, even in challenging driving conditions like muddy terrains, uneven paths, or wet roads. Additionally, the AWD system helps to improve the vehicle's handling and performance. Here are some details of the RX350’s AWD system:
Overall, the AWD system on the Lexus RX 350 provides improved traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions, making it a great choice for drivers who encounter snow, rain, or other challenging road conditions.
The Lexus RX 350 features a panoramic moonroof that allows natural light to flood the cabin. The moonroof is also equipped with a power sunshade that can be opened or closed with the touch of a button, giving passengers the option to control the amount of sunlight entering the cabin. It is a feature of the Lexus RX 350 that provides a large, expansive view of the surrounding environment from inside the vehicle.
The glass roof stretches from the front to the rear of the cabin, allowing natural light to flood the interior. The panoramic moonroof enhances the overall driving experience by adding a more spacious and open feel to the cabin. It is a popular feature among car enthusiasts who enjoy the outdoors.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with an optional Mark Levinson premium sound system that delivers crystal-clear audio quality. The sound system includes 15 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin to provide an immersive listening experience. The Mark Levinson premium sound system is a high-end audio system that delivers crystal-clear audio quality with exceptional detail and balance.
The 15 strategically placed speakers throughout the cabin include a subwoofer and a center-channel speaker. The amplifier delivers 835 watts of power, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. The Mark Levinson sound system is designed to bring out the best in any type of music, from classical to rock, and it is a popular choice for audiophiles and music lovers who demand the highest level of sound quality.
The Lexus RX 350 features an adaptive variable suspension system that adjusts the shock absorbers in real time to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The system can also adjust the suspension based on the driving conditions, such as rough roads, corners, or highway driving. The system uses sensors to detect the road surface, driving conditions, and driver input to make adjustments to the suspension.
This allows the vehicle to adapt to changing road conditions, corners, and highway driving, resulting in a more controlled and stable ride. The adaptive variable suspension also enhances the vehicle's handling and performance, providing a more engaging driving experience. Overall, this feature ensures that the occupants of the Lexus RX 350 experience a comfortable and enjoyable ride, regardless of the driving conditions.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with wireless charging capabilities that allow you to charge your smartphone or other compatible devices without the need for cables. While that is bad news for charger hawkers in the traffics, it ensures you never have to worry about forgetting to bring your chargers with you. The wireless charging pad is located in the center console, and it supports both Qi and PMA wireless charging standards.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, allowing you to connect your smartphone seamlessly to the vehicle's infotainment system. This lets you access your phone's apps, contacts, music, and more, through the vehicle's touchscreen display.
In a nutshell, a power liftgate opens your vehicle's trunk automatically. Vehicles with this cool feature have different ways of activating the power liftgate, either by pressing a button inside your car, through your key fob, or simply kicking your foot below the bumper. This makes it a really convenient feature to have in any vehicle.
The Lexus RX 350 comes with a hands-free power liftgate that lets you open the trunk without using your hands. Simply wave your foot under the rear bumper (no need to kick it), and the liftgate will open automatically. This feature is particularly useful when your hands are full of groceries or other items.
Summarily, the Lexus RX 350 is a luxury SUV that boasts a range of innovative features that make it one of the most desirable vehicles in its class. From its powerful engine and advanced safety features to its comfortable interior and panoramic moonroof, the Lexus RX 350 provides the ultimate driving experience. So, whether you're looking for a vehicle for daily commuting or weekend getaways, the Lexus RX 350 is definitely worth considering.