Lexus RX 350 (2025–2026): Complete Guide to Trims, MPG, and Luxury Features

What’s New in the 2025–2026 Lexus RX 350?
The latest RX 350 models emphasize customization and modern design. For 2025, Lexus expanded the trim lineup to seven options, including three F SPORT variants that deliver a bolder, sportier appearance. The 2026 model carries forward these updates with minor refinements to keep technology and styling fresh, all while maintaining a premium, contemporary driving experience.

At the heart of both model years is a 2.4‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder engine—powerful enough for effortless highway merging, yet efficient enough to save at the pump. Lexus has also prioritized a smooth, quiet ride, using acoustic glass and additional insulation to block wind and road noise. The result is a cabin that remains library‑quiet even in busy city traffic.

Key specifications at a glance:

Feature RX 350 Detail
Engine 2.4L Turbocharged 4‑Cylinder
Horsepower 275 hp
Torque 317 lb‑ft
MPG (Combined) 24–25 MPG
Seating 5 passengers
While this guide focuses on the standard gas‑powered RX 350, hybrid versions are also available for even better fuel economy. For most drivers, the standard RX 350 strikes an excellent balance of power and value, with ample space for five people and their gear.

Lexus RX 350 Trims & F SPORT Models Explained
Choosing the right trim comes down to your priorities. The base RX 350 is already well‑equipped, while higher trims add luxury touches like premium leather and larger wheels. The lineup includes:

RX 350 (base)

Premium

Premium+

Luxury

For a sportier look, two F SPORT trims are available:

F SPORT Design – bold grille, unique wheels, and sport accents

F SPORT Handling – adds performance suspension and enhanced driving dynamics

The F SPORT Handling trim is a standout for driving enthusiasts, featuring an adaptive suspension that keeps the SUV stable during cornering. Inside, all trims feature high‑quality materials, starting with NuLuxe (a soft, easy‑to‑clean synthetic leather) and upgrading to genuine leather in the Luxury trim, which also includes fully adjustable, ergonomic seats for maximum comfort.

Which trim fits you?

Driver Profile Recommended Trim Key Reason
Commuter Base or Premium All essential luxury without the high price
Tech Lover Premium+ or Luxury 14‑inch touchscreen, premium audio
Style‑Focused F SPORT Design Head‑turning sporty looks
Adventurer F SPORT Handling w/ AWD Extra confidence on winding or wet roads
No matter which trim you choose, you’ll get a durable, long‑lasting vehicle—Lexus is renowned for reliability—plus convenient features like a power liftgate and smart key entry, which are perfect for when your hands are full of groceries or luggage.

Engine, Performance & Fuel Economy
On the road, the RX 350’s 2.4L turbo engine delivers responsive, punchy performance. It’s not a sports car, but it’s far from sluggish—and it remains quiet even under hard acceleration.

Ride quality is exceptional. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, making it ideal for areas with rough roads. Fuel economy is solid for a luxury SUV:

City: ~22 MPG

Highway: ~29 MPG

Combined: 24–25 MPG (2026 models)

Pros:

Ultra‑quiet cabin

Smooth, forgiving ride

Intuitive, user‑friendly power delivery

Cons:

Less sporty than some rivals

Engine sound is deliberately subdued

Driving feel: Relaxed and steady, perfect for daily commutes and long trips. The steering is light, making parking in tight spots easy. For a bit more excitement, switch to Sport mode (sharper throttle response and firmer steering), but most owners prefer Normal mode for its laid‑back, comfortable character.

Interior Comfort, Space & Luxury Features
Stepping inside the RX 350 feels like entering a high‑end hotel. The design is clean and modern, with minimal clutter—no overwhelming buttons. Most controls are accessible via the touchscreen or simple dials, and every material feels premium, even the lower‑area plastics.

Seating: The seats are among the best in class: wide, supportive, and heated/ventilated on most trims. The back seat comfortably fits three adults, with a nearly flat floor for middle‑seat legroom.

Additional luxury features:

Multi‑zone climate control

Available panoramic glass roof

Customizable ambient lighting

Power‑folding rear seats

Tech‑Focused Cabin Layout

Feature Standard Available Upgrade
Touchscreen 9.8‑inch display 14.0‑inch display
Sound System 12‑speaker Lexus system 21‑speaker Mark Levinson
Climate 3‑zone control Heated/ventilated rear seats
Sunroof Power moonroof Panoramic glass roof
Cargo space is practical. Unlike some larger SUVs, the RX 350 sticks to two rows—maximizing trunk space for suitcases, golf clubs, or bulk shopping. With the touch of a button, the rear seats fold down to create even more room.

Technology, Infotainment & Connectivity
Lexus has significantly improved its tech offering with the Lexus Interface system, centered around a large touchscreen that looks like a tablet on the dashboard. The interface is responsive, with clear graphics, and supports voice control—just say “Hey Lexus” to adjust the temperature, find a destination, or play music.

Standout features:

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – access your phone’s apps without a cable

Wireless charging pad – keeps phones powered without cord clutter

Digital Key – use your smartphone as a car key

Head‑Up Display – projects speed and navigation onto the windshield

Multiple USB‑C ports – charge all your devices

Popular packages:

Package Key Additions
Convenience Package 360‑degree camera (bird’s‑eye view for easy parking)
Technology Package Digital Key, digital rearview mirror
Cold Area Package Heated steering wheel, wiper de‑icer (ideal for snowy climates)
Safety & Driver‑Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for Lexus. Every RX 350 comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of driver‑assist technology that acts as an extra set of eyes on the road. It helps prevent accidents by alerting you to hazards and even intervening when needed.

Key safety features:

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection

Lane departure alert with steering assist

Road sign assist (displays speed limits on the dashboard)

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross‑traffic alert

For highway driving, adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the car ahead, slowing down and speeding up automatically. Lane‑tracing assist keeps the SUV centered in its lane, reducing driver fatigue. Another handy feature is safe exit assist, which checks for oncoming bikes or cars before allowing you to open the door—preventing “dooring” accidents.

Lexus RX 350 vs. Key Competitors
If you’re shopping for a luxury SUV, you’ll likely compare the RX 350 to the Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60. Here’s how they stack up:

Model Starting Price (Est.) MPG (Combined) Highlights
Lexus RX 350 $50,000 25 Best comfort & reliability
Acura MDX $51,000 22 Sporty drive, 3 rows
Infiniti QX60 $50,500 23 Elegant style, 3 rows
RX 350 Strengths:

Quietest cabin in its class

Exceptional reliability and resale value

Easy‑to‑use infotainment system

RX 350 Weaknesses:

Only seats 5 (no third row)

Relaxed driving experience (not thrilling for sporty drivers)

If you want a peaceful, comfortable ride, the RX 350 is hard to beat. If you need to regularly haul seven passengers, the MDX or QX60 may be better fits. For most drivers, however, the RX 350’s five seats, generous cargo space, and comfort make it the ideal choice.