2008 Lexus RX 350 Review

The RX is a crossover SUV that first debuted in 1998. The current, second generation debuted in 2003. In 2007, the RX 330 was renamed the RX 350, to reflect the upgrade to a 3.5-L V6 engine. It has won several awards, including J.D. Power’s “Best Luxury SUV in Initial Quality” and “Most Appealing Luxury SUV,” as well as Intellichoice’s “Best SUV over $30,000.”

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Lexus RX 350 is a safe choice for a luxury crossover. It has a rock-solid reliability record, outstanding build quality and capable performance. However, like most Toyotas, it’s lacking in the excitement department. Its styling and handling won’t thrill you. On the other hand, it won’t let you down. Plus, there are plenty of plush features to make it a comfortable driving experience.

What’s New For 2008:

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the RX 5 stars for overall mechanical quality and 4 stars for overall design quality. Problems with the first generation included exhaust noise, brake noise, suspension noise, wind noise, and speaker noise. It was recalled twice. The current generation’s problems include inefficient air conditioning, engine stalling, vacuum leaks, and flaky automatic windows. It was recalled once in 2004 for a defective light switch. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The RX earned perfect government crash tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for frontal impacts and “Poor” for rear collisions. A full array of airbags come standard, as does stability and traction control.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Quality interior
+ Smooth ride
+ Reliable

Cons
– Somewhat boring
– AWD not standard, but available
– Expensive

Head-To-Head Competition:

The BMW X3 costs slightly more and has 10 less hp, less passenger room and more weight; though it does include standard AWD and has sportier handling. The Volkswagen Touareg costs nearly $2,000 more, but has 10 extra hp and AWD. If the RX is outside of your budget, you might also consider the Hyundai Veracruz. At about $10,000 less, it only has 10 less hp, and has more passenger space and AWD.

What Others Are Saying:

“Because it’s based on a car platform, rather than a truck chassis, it offers a smoother ride and crisper handling than truck-based SUVs while also having a lower step-in height. The Lexus RX 350 isn’t capable of tackling rough terrain, but when equipped with optional all-wheel drive it can traverse moderate trails and handle slippery roads in stride.” – Forbes

“It’s hard for me to complain about a vehicle that does so many things right, but here I am complaining anyway. RX 350 rides right down the middle of the road, and the SUVs that I really love push the limits more, in terms of styling, performance and/or luxury. RX 350 is safe and normal, and it may be the right vehicle for a lot of people. I just want an SUV to touch my soul more if I’m going to be laying out nearly fifty grand.” – About.com

“The RX is a nimble sort of SUV, light on its feet and quite compact, more like a tall station wagon that’s five inches shorter than a Honda Accord. Who should buy it? Sensualists with upwards of $40,000 to spend who want a plush, all-weather wagon for those perilous treks to Saks.” – Car and Driver

Read more about the 2008 Lexus RX 350 at the Lexus manufacturer web site.