Driving a Lexus is nothing like what you're used to. I'm not exactly saying that these cars are a total blast to drive -- actually, the opposite would be more accurate -- but there's such an aura around this premium Japanese brand that it almost feels like sitting in a tea salon: starchy but comfortable.
The Lexus RX 350 does not escape this trend. While initially marketed as a sport utility vehicle, the fact of the matter is that it became the king of luxury crossovers. And like any other Lexus, the RX makes up in grace and efficiency what it lacks in sportiness.
The crossover
Did I ever tell you how much I like the term "crossover"? Not necessarily because of its definition (or lack thereof), but because it encompasses nothing and everything at the same time -- exactly what the Lexus RX 350 is about.
Admittedly, the very purpose of such a vehicle (a premium crossover) has yet to be clearly defined. True, while driving in the city, it will offer you unparalleled comfort thanks to perfectly-padded seats, leather upholstery, impeccable wood inserts and a seemingly endless array of convenient features and accessories.
Even the color scheme -- a soulless though understated beige -- helps passengers feel relaxed and at peace with the road, almost in a Zen sort of way.
For sure, it's not a perfect vehicle. The seats, for instance, are comfortable... provided that you're not too big. People of my size probably won't enjoy long drives as much as normal-size folks. On the other hand, front-seat headroom and legroom are fantastic. In the back, well, it's another story.
Bottom line: the Lexus RX 350 offers a pleasantly soothing environment... unless you have a big family or you're larger than most drivers. On the plus side, the rear seats fold down easily to create a vast cargo area -- an asset that should not be overlooked.
Buckingham adventurer
On the road, the Lexus RX 350 behaves with a sense of royalty. Light on its feet, efficient and straightforward, this upscale crossover provides a remarkable feeling of safety and refinement. Unfortunately, it fails to deliver at the same time a rewarding driving experience. Despite the increase in displacement (from 3.3 to 3.5 liters) and horsepower (from 223 to 270), sportiness is sorely lacking.
The Lexus RX 350 does not escape this trend. While initially marketed as a sport utility vehicle, the fact of the matter is that it became the king of luxury crossovers. And like any other Lexus, the RX makes up in grace and efficiency what it lacks in sportiness.
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| The RX acquired a pretty enviable reputation over the years. |
The crossover
Did I ever tell you how much I like the term "crossover"? Not necessarily because of its definition (or lack thereof), but because it encompasses nothing and everything at the same time -- exactly what the Lexus RX 350 is about.
Admittedly, the very purpose of such a vehicle (a premium crossover) has yet to be clearly defined. True, while driving in the city, it will offer you unparalleled comfort thanks to perfectly-padded seats, leather upholstery, impeccable wood inserts and a seemingly endless array of convenient features and accessories.
Even the color scheme -- a soulless though understated beige -- helps passengers feel relaxed and at peace with the road, almost in a Zen sort of way.
For sure, it's not a perfect vehicle. The seats, for instance, are comfortable... provided that you're not too big. People of my size probably won't enjoy long drives as much as normal-size folks. On the other hand, front-seat headroom and legroom are fantastic. In the back, well, it's another story.
Bottom line: the Lexus RX 350 offers a pleasantly soothing environment... unless you have a big family or you're larger than most drivers. On the plus side, the rear seats fold down easily to create a vast cargo area -- an asset that should not be overlooked.
Buckingham adventurer
On the road, the Lexus RX 350 behaves with a sense of royalty. Light on its feet, efficient and straightforward, this upscale crossover provides a remarkable feeling of safety and refinement. Unfortunately, it fails to deliver at the same time a rewarding driving experience. Despite the increase in displacement (from 3.3 to 3.5 liters) and horsepower (from 223 to 270), sportiness is sorely lacking.
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| Power is strong and the delivery, linear. |