Lexus RX350 F Sport 3.5 Review: RX redefined

What we like:

Smooth powertrain

unparalleled refinement

spacious interior

superb build quality

superb ride

improved stance over non-F Sport models

slightly improved body control over standard models

What we dislike:

Driving environment starting to feel old

unintuitive operation of Remote Touch Interface

The updated RX’s interior is mostly similar to the old model bar new trim and colour options as well as a new steering wheel. The F Sport model, tested here features a unique black and white grey colour scheme for the cabin, with black leather upholstery with white grey perforations and contrast stitching, steel silver painted trim inserts and a black headliner to give the interior, according to Lexus, a more cockpit-like feel and aid driver concentration. The F Sport also gets aluminium foot pedals and an F badge on the steering wheel.

Next to newer models like the GS and even the CT though, the RX’s driving environment does show its age despite the minor updates. The switchgear and the materials used in the RX do not offer as much tactility and that feel of high quality like those in the GS do. Overall build quality is still exemplary though. It is still on the utility front where the RX stills shines– rear passengers will have little to complain about any lack of room while the boot offers a flat and spacious bumper-level loading area. In addition, there are many useable storage spaces littered throughout the cabin, including a well-sized glove compartment and cubbyhole under the centre armrest.

The F Sport is the range-topping model in the RX350 range, commanding a price premium of about $9,000 over a standard model RX350. To justify its additional price over the base model, the RX350 F Sport gets additional kit like a tilt/slide moonroof; 19-inch F Sport wheels wrapped in 235/35 R19 tyres. Like the base model, the F Sport also gets standard kit like10 airbags, LED daytime running lights, adaptive HID headlamps, driver aids like VDIM, VSC and TRC; rain sensing wipers, keyless operation, sat nav, cruise control, electric adjustments for the front seats and many more to mention here.

In F Sport trim, the new RX might not offer more performance or hugely significant dynamic handling benefits over the standard car but the additional standard kit and styling package that have further improved the updated car’s stance and overall looks significantly are more than enough of a reason to go for the F Sport over the base model.

Credits: Story by Raymond Lai Photos by Jonathan Tan and Raymond Lai