2025 Lexus RX 350 Review: Sleek, Sophisticated and Kinda Sporty

The automotive world is full of SUVs that promise the moon, but the 2025 Lexus RX 350 manages to deliver a blend of refined luxury, impressive technology, and everyday practicality without overdoing it. If you’re in the market for a premium crossover that’s as comfortable on the freeway as it is in the city, the RX 350 is a contender worth your attention. This review takes a deep dive into what makes the 2025 Lexus RX350 from its powertrain and interior features to its trim levels and available options. We’ll also pit it against some of its main rivals and discuss a few areas where it could use a little extra polish.

For those of you who appreciate a car that exudes sophistication without feeling ostentatious, and who enjoy a good blend of performance and comfort, you’re in for a treat.

Under the Hood: Performance & Efficiency

Lexus has always been known for crafting vehicles that deliver smooth, reliable performance with an emphasis on comfort and Japanese refinement. The 2025 RX 350 is no exception. While it may not have the raw aggression of a sports car, it’s built to handle your daily commute, long road trips, and even a spirited drive on a twisty back road.

Engine & Performance Specs:

• Engine: 3.5L V6 engine
• Horsepower: Approximately 290 hp
• Torque: Around 267 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) available
• Fuel Economy: Estimated at 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway for AWD models

The RX 350’s V6 offers a satisfying balance of power and efficiency and provides enough pep for merging onto highways and overtaking slow pokes. Lexus has fine-tuned the engine and transmission pairing so that shifts are smooth and almost imperceptible. The optional AWD system ensures that your vehicle maintains traction in many weather conditions.

What Makes the RX 350 Special?

At its core, the 2025 Lexus RX 350 is all about refinement and reliability. It doesn’t try to be flashy or over-the-top; instead, it focuses on delivering a consistently pleasant driving experience. Here are a few things that set it apart:

1. Timeless Design and Build Quality

The RX 350 sports a design that is both modern and timeless. Lexus has managed to create a look that feels upscale yet understated. Its bold spindle grille, sleek LED headlights, and sculpted body lines give it a presence that commands respect without shouting for attention. The build quality is excellent (especially for the price point), with meticulous attention to detail evident in every curve and surface.

2. Interior Excellence

Step inside the RX 350, and you’re greeted by a cabin that combines luxury with practicality. High-quality materials, such as ample soft-touch leather and wood accents, create an environment that is both comfortable and visually appealing. The design is rather driver-centric, with controls that are intuitive and ergonomically placed. The available features add an extra layer of luxury without compromising the vehicle’s primary function as a comfy daily driver.

3. Advanced Technology

The 2025 RX 350 comes equipped with an array of tech features that make driving safer and more enjoyable. The infotainment system boasts a crisp, easy-to-navigate interface, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard. Advanced driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system, contribute to a high level of safety and convenience.

4. Comfort and Practicality

Spacious seating and a well-thought-out cabin design make the RX 350 a family-friendly option. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, and the cargo space is generous enough for daily needs or an impromptu road trip. Lexus has ensured that the ride remains smooth even on less-than-perfect roads, thanks to a finely tuned suspension system that absorbs bumps with ease.

Trim Levels & Available Options

The 2025 Lexus RX 350 is available in a few different trims, each catering to a specific set of needs and preferences. This allows buyers to choose a model that best fits their lifestyle, whether that’s prioritizing luxury, performance, or additional tech.

Trims:

RX 350 Base

• Standard 3.5L V6 engine
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• Leatherette upholstery and cloth accents
• Basic infotainment with an 8-inch screen
• Standard safety features including Lexus Safety System+ 2.0

Ideal for buyers looking for a reliable, well-equipped luxury crossover without a lot of extra frills.

RX 350 Premium

• Upgraded interior materials including genuine leather
• 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Enhanced ambient lighting
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Optional panoramic sunroof

This trim provides a nice boost in comfort and tech, making long drives and daily commutes more enjoyable.

RX 350 F Sport

• Sport-tuned suspension for a more dynamic driving experience
• Unique F Sport styling cues including a sportier grille and exclusive wheel designs
• Performance-focused interior accents
• Available upgraded brakes and adaptive suspension settings

The F Sport trim is for those who want the luxury of the RX 350 with a bit more edge and a sportier feel behind the wheel.

Interesting Options:

• Mark Levinson Premium Audio System: For those who want concert-quality sound in the cabin.
• Navigation Package: Including a larger, more intuitive navigation display.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Package: Adding extra sensors and features for enhanced safety.
• Custom Interior Color Schemes: Allowing buyers to choose from a range of luxurious finishes.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Creates an open, airy feel inside the cabin and floods the space with natural light.

Competitors: The Contenders in the Luxury Crossover Market

The 2025 Lexus RX 350 goes head-to-head with several other models that promise luxury, performance, and practicality. Let’s take a quick look at some of its main mid-tier luxury SUV competitors.

1. Acura MDX

• Engine: 3.5L V6 engine producing around 290 hp
• Interior: Spacious and well-appointed with modern tech features
• Pros: Strong reliability, ample seating for seven, and a balanced ride
• Cons: Not as refined in terms of interior luxury compared to the RX 350

The MDX offers a solid package, especially for families needing extra seating, though it may fall a bit short in the luxury department.

2. BMW X3

• Engine: Available in multiple powertrains, including a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.0L inline-six
• Interior: Sporty and driver-focused with premium materials
• Pros: Excellent driving dynamics and a refined interior
• Cons: Higher starting price and can feel a bit cramped in the rear

The X3 is a great option for those who prioritize performance and handling, but its smaller size may not appeal to families looking for extra space.

3. Mercedes-Benz GLC

• Engine: Options include a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a more potent AMG variant
• Interior: Modern, luxurious, and tech-forward
• Pros: Elegant design, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride
• Cons: Can get expensive with options and may not offer as much cargo space as the RX 350

The GLC is renowned for its upscale interior and smooth ride, but its higher price point and limited practicality may deter some buyers.

4. Volvo XC60

• Engine: Offers a range of options, including a turbocharged and supercharged inline-4 and a plug-in hybrid variant
• Interior: Scandinavian design with an emphasis on safety and comfort
• Pros: High safety ratings, luxurious yet understated design, and advanced tech features
• Cons: Rear seat space is less than ideal for larger families and the ride can feel a bit stiff

The XC60 is a strong competitor, especially for those who value safety and design, though it might not match the RX 350 in terms of overall roominess and comfort.

What Could Be Better? Our Concerns and Wishes

The 2025 Lexus RX 350 is a solid luxury crossover that manages to balance performance, comfort, and practicality in one package. It delivers a quiet, refined ride with plenty of tech and upscale materials. Still, there are a few areas where I think it could use a bit of extra attention:

• Engine Power: Although 290 hp is adequate for daily driving, a bit more grunt—perhaps a turbocharged variant—would add a spark of excitement, especially during highway merging.
• Infotainment System: The current setup is functional and modern, but some competitors offer larger, more responsive screens and a more intuitive interface. A touch more finesse here would enhance the overall experience.
• Interior Customization: While the interior is classy, a few additional options for customization, such as more unique trim materials or color choices, would allow buyers to make the RX 350 feel even more personal.
• Cargo Space: The RX350 manages well in this regard, but competitors like the Acura MDX offer more flexible seating and cargo configurations, which might be a deciding factor for families.
• Price Sensitivity: Although the RX 350 offers excellent value for its price, the addition of a few more standard luxury features would make it an even more compelling buy in a segment where small differences can sway decisions.

These concerns don’t overshadow what the RX 350 does well, but they represent areas where even a great vehicle can be improved.

Is the 2025 Lexus RX 350 the One for You?

The 2025 Lexus RX 350 continues to be a strong contender in the luxury crossover market, offering a well-rounded blend of comfort, technology, and style that makes it ideal for both daily commuting and longer journeys. It stands out with its refined ride quality, high-quality materials, and a host of safety and tech features that make it a smart choice for families and professionals alike.

Its competitors, from the Acura MDX to the Mercedes GLC, each have their strengths, but the RX 350 holds its own by delivering consistent performance and a level of refinement that is both understated and impressive. While there’s room for improvement (especially in terms of power and infotainment), the overall package is compelling for anyone who values luxury without excessive flamboyance.

The Lexus RX350 is an SUV that knows its place in the market by offering a blend of rock-solid Toyota sourced reliability and upscale features that make it a practical yet aspirational choice. It’s perfect for those who want to make a statement without being ostentatious, blending elegance with the everyday demands of modern life.

What do you think about the 2025 Lexus RX 350? Drop a comment below and let’s get a conversation going!