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Lexus RX 4x4 350

For:
The RX is a refined and luxurious 4x4, with good space for five. It's also well equipped and solidly built.

Against:
Not as practical or rugged as a Land Rover Discovery, or as good to drive as a Mercedes M-Class.



Performance

Whether you choose the 3.5 V6 of the RX350 or the combination of a 3.3-litre V6 engine plus two electric motors in the 400h, there's plenty of pace at your disposal. Both are swift - they'll crack 60mph in under eight seconds - but the hybrid's CVT transmission provides a smoother flow of power than the RX350's five-speed auto 'box.

Ride & handling

There are two suspension set-ups for the RX range. Lower-spec RX350 models and the 400h come with conventional coil springs, while pricier RX350 models have air-sprung suspension. All handle competently, but can't match a Mercedes M-Class for agility and have steering that's rather vague. Air-sprung cars have a generally comfy ride, but those on coil springs have a slightly firmer edge.

Refinement

Mechanical refinement in the RX is excellent around town. Both versions are smooth and quiet; the RX400h particularly so because it runs on electric power only at very low speeds. When revved hard both V6 engines become rather rowdy, but they aren't intrusive once settled at cruising speeds. Road noise is well contained and although there's some wind noise, the RX is quiet on the motorway.

Buying & owning

The hybrid partially makes up for the absence of a diesel, having the overall economy and tax band of a smaller petrol saloon. The initial price - and contract hire rates - are high, however. Like all big 4x4s, every RX is pretty expensive to run, but both models hold their value exceptionally well.

Quality & reliability

It's hard to fault the assembly standards of any Lexus and the RX is no different. Some of the interior plastics and switches have a rather dated feel, but we expect the cabin to wear the miles well. Based on the praise from Lexus owners in the JD Power survey and the brand's previous record, mechanical problems should be few and far between.

Safety & security

Comprehensive kit includes a full set of the latest traction and anti-skid aids, nine airbags (including extra-large side 'bags and a driver's knee 'bag) and deadlocks. Lexus says the car has been engineered to get a five-star Euro NCAP crash rating. The company has won a number of trophies for security at our annual Car of the Year awards.

Behind the wheel

All versions have eight-way electronically adjustable driver's seats and two-way movement of the steering column, and there's plenty of room. Visibility is good for a 4x4 and the SE-L has a rear-mounted camera to aid parking, plus adaptive lights that partially shine around corners. The dash is a model of clarity and quality.

Space & practicality

The RX has decent space for five on-board, but it's not as roomy as the biggest cars in this class and there's no seven-seat option. The boot is large, but the wheelarches intrude a little and there's a small lip to lift bulky items over. The rear seats fold almost flat in an instant, however.

Equipment

There are standard, SE, SE Multimedia and SE-L trim designations, all so well appointed that even buyers of the standard model won't feel short-changed by the safety features or luxury items that are fitted. Top-of-the-range models have air suspension and an 11-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

Running Costs

Town mpg

18

Out of Town mpg

33.2

Average mpg

25.2

Tank Capacity (gallons)

15.8

CO2 Rating (g/km)

264

Insurance Group

16

Typical Insurance Quote

£663

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

34

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£724

Pence Per Mile

86.57

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£1222

Servicing Intervals

10/20k

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 12yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

4X4

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

3456/V6

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

272/6200

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Four

Length (mm)

4740

Width (mm)

1845

Height (mm)

1730

Boot Space (min ltr)

439

Boot Space (max ltr)

1500

Turning Circle (m)

11.4

Towing Weight(kg)

N/A

Kerb Weight (kg)

N/A

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