Lexus RX350 the sweet spot
The Lexus RX has been around for 21 years and in that time some 3-million units have found homes, making it the brand’s most successful model. Recently, the RX received a mid-life update, and we received the 350 F-Sport to review.
What’s new?
The updated RX gets new LED headlights and in the case of our tester, automatic high-beam functionality and the optional AHS blade scan system which allows the brights to remain on without blinding other road users. Other changes up front include a revised grille while at the rear there are new LED taillamps with an L-shape and the lower bumper has been reshaped.
Inside, the 12.3-inch infotainment system has been better positioned and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. There is also a now a touch pad to control the infotainment system, which I find to be a step backwards, as it makes scrolling through the system more difficult.
Other additions to the interior are a new smartphone holder which sits to the left of the gear lever and comes in really handy along with four USB charge points, two of which support media functionality. As standard, the RX models also come with Lexus Connect, a Wi-Fi connection, with 15GB of free data which allows for improved car-to-device connectivity and access to the MyLexus app.
New F Sport model
The latest addition to the range is the Sport model, which adds some sport aesthetics to the line-up. This model gets a sportier front bumper and grille, model-specific alloy wheels, black accents and F Sport badging. The interior features aluminium interior accents, the option of red or black leather seats along with an F Sport steering wheel.
Driving RX
The F-Sport derivative produces 221kW and 370 N.m from a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic. While not exactly economical, the V6 motor provides an incredibly smooth power and torque delivery coupled with a wonderful soundtrack, while the gearbox provides acceptably quick shifts.
The RX is clearly more focussed on creating a refined, quiet and comfortable atmosphere for its occupants. The refinement and noise cancellation is exemplary; making the RX a phenomenal open road cruiser that lacks the dynamic handling and fun-to-drive characteristics of many key rivals. The RX is more about luxury though, from what I’ve surmised, and those who have a chance to drive the big Lexus will be in for a treat, and indeed, a wonderful left-field choice within its segment.
Service plan and warranty
All RX models come with a seven-year/105 000km warranty as well as a seven-year/105 000km maintenance plan.
Pricing
RX 350 F Sport R1 132 200
Also worth a look: the 2026 Lexus RZ Launched in South Africa | Price & Specs and the Lexus RZ Becomes a Moving Canvas in Collaboration with Artis.
FAQ
Q: What does the Lexus RX350 F-Sport cost in South Africa?
The Lexus RX350 F-Sport is priced from R1,089,900 in South Africa, which positions it in the premium luxury SUV segment alongside rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Q: Is the Lexus RX350 worth buying in 2024?
The RX350 is absolutely worth considering if you prioritise reliability, smooth power delivery, and luxury comfort over outright performance, though the touchpad infotainment system and higher fuel consumption might put off some buyers.
Q: How powerful is the Lexus RX350 F-Sport engine?
The RX350 F-Sport produces 221kW and 370 N.m from its naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth but not exactly thrilling performance.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Lexus RX350 in South Africa?
The RX350's main rivals include the BMW X5 xDrive40i at R1,134,600, the Mercedes-Benz GLE400d at R1,247,593, and the Audi Q7 45 TFSI at R1,185,000, all offering different approaches to luxury SUV motoring.
Q: What makes the RX350 F-Sport different from the regular RX350?
The F-Sport adds a sportier front bumper and grille, unique alloy wheels, black accents, F-Sport badging, aluminium interior trim, optional red or black leather seats, and an F-Sport steering wheel for about R50,000 more than the base model.
Should You Buy It?
The best luxury SUV for reliability obsessives under R1,100,000 in SA is the Lexus RX350 F-Sport at R1,089,900. Yes, you should buy it if you value bulletproof Japanese engineering, whisper-quiet cabin refinement, and that satisfying naturally aspirated V6 soundtrack over Germanic sportiness. The RX350 won't win any drag races or corner-carving contests, but it'll still be purring along beautifully when its European rivals are collecting dust at specialist workshops. Just budget extra for fuel, because that smooth 3.5-litre V6 has quite the thirst, and prepare to wrestle with that infuriating touchpad every time you want to change radio stations.
