Lexus RX 350: A Look at the 2016 Model
Introduction to the Lexus RX 350
The Lexus RX 350 is a midsize luxury SUV that has carved out a solid reputation in the automotive market since its introduction. Known for its blend of comfort, reliability, and upscale features, the RX series has become a go-to choice for families and individuals seeking a premium driving experience without the bulk of larger SUVs. The 2016 model year represents a continuation of this legacy, offering a refined driving experience and a host of modern amenities.
Market Position
In the competitive landscape of luxury SUVs, the RX 350 stands out for several reasons:
- Brand Reputation: Lexus, as Toyota’s luxury division, is synonymous with reliability and customer satisfaction. The RX 350 benefits from this reputation, appealing to buyers looking for a dependable vehicle.
- Luxury Features: The 2016 RX 350 comes equipped with high-quality materials, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride, making it a strong contender against rivals like the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE.
- Resale Value: Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well, which is an important consideration for many buyers. The RX 350 is no exception, often retaining a higher resale value compared to other luxury SUVs.
Target Audience
The RX 350 appeals to a diverse range of drivers, including:
- Families looking for a spacious and safe vehicle.
- Professionals seeking a comfortable ride for daily commutes.
- Individuals desiring a luxury experience without excessive size.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2016 RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 295 horsepower. This provides ample power for both city driving and highway merging. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which contributes to a smoother driving experience.
Fuel efficiency is another consideration for many buyers. The 2016 RX 350 offers competitive fuel economy for its class, with EPA ratings of approximately 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This makes it a practical choice for those concerned about fuel costs.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the RX 350 is designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The cabin is spacious, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. Key features include:
- Spacious seating for up to five passengers.
- Premium audio systems and advanced infotainment options.
- Ample cargo space, making it suitable for family trips or carrying gear.
Safety Features
While safety is not the primary focus of this overview, it is worth noting that the 2016 RX 350 comes equipped with several important safety features, including:
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Lane departure warning.
- Automatic emergency braking.
These features contribute to a safer driving experience, particularly for families.
Conclusion
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 is a strong contender in the luxury SUV market, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and reliability. It caters to a wide range of drivers, making it a practical choice for those seeking a premium vehicle without compromising on essential features.
Features of the 2016 Lexus RX 350
Design
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 showcases a bold and sophisticated design that aligns with Lexus’s luxury branding. The exterior features:
- Spindle Grille: The signature spindle grille gives the RX 350 a distinctive look, making it easily recognizable on the road.
- Sleek Lines: The vehicle’s sculpted body and sleek lines contribute to its aerodynamic profile, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.
- LED Lighting: Standard LED headlights and taillights not only improve visibility but also add a modern touch to the overall design.
Size
The RX 350 is classified as a midsize SUV, which strikes a balance between spaciousness and maneuverability. Key dimensions include:
- Length: Approximately 192.5 inches, making it easy to navigate urban environments.
- Width: About 74.6 inches, providing a stable stance on the road.
- Height: Roughly 67.7 inches, offering a commanding view of the road while maintaining a sleek profile.
Technology
The 2016 RX 350 is equipped with a range of advanced technology features designed to enhance the driving experience:
- Infotainment System: The Lexus Enform infotainment system includes a 12.3-inch display, navigation, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Premium Sound System: Available Mark Levinson audio system provides an exceptional listening experience with clear sound quality.
- Driver Assistance Features: Options like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assist enhance convenience and safety.
Options
The RX 350 offers a variety of options and packages to customize the vehicle to your preferences:
- F Sport Package: This package enhances performance with sport-tuned suspension, unique styling elements, and upgraded interior features.
- Luxury Package: Adds premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and additional comfort features.
- All-Wheel Drive: An available option for those seeking improved traction in various driving conditions.
Performance
Under the hood, the 2016 RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers:
- Horsepower: 295 hp, providing sufficient power for both city and highway driving.
- Torque: 267 lb-ft, ensuring responsive acceleration when needed.
- Transmission: An 8-speed automatic transmission that contributes to smooth gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency.
In terms of fuel economy, the RX 350 achieves approximately 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it competitive in its class.
Safety
Safety is a priority for the 2016 RX 350, which includes a variety of features to protect occupants:
- Standard Safety Features: Includes a rearview camera, stability control, and traction control.
- Advanced Safety Options: Available features such as forward collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control enhance safety on the road.
- Crash Test Ratings: The RX 350 has received high ratings from safety organizations, reflecting its robust safety design.
Towing Capacity
The RX 350 is not primarily designed for heavy towing, but it can handle light towing tasks:
- Towing Capacity: The maximum towing capacity is approximately 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
- Towing Features: Optional towing packages may include a hitch receiver and wiring harness for added convenience.
Comfort
Comfort is a hallmark of the RX 350, with features designed to enhance the driving experience:
- Spacious Interior: Ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making long trips more enjoyable.
- Quality Materials: High-end materials throughout the cabin contribute to a luxurious feel.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that all passengers can maintain their preferred temperature.
Cost of Ownership for the 2016 Lexus RX 350
Price Ranges
The price of a used 2016 Lexus RX 350 can vary significantly based on factors such as mileage, condition, and trim level. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Base Model: Prices typically start around $30,000.
- Mid-Level Trims: Expect to pay between $32,000 and $38,000 for models with added features.
- Fully Loaded Models: High-end trims can reach up to $45,000, especially if equipped with luxury packages and advanced technology.
Cost of Ownership
When considering the total cost of ownership, several factors come into play, including insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. Here’s a breakdown:
| Cost Factor | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Maintenance | $500 – $800 |
| Fuel | $1,500 – $2,000 |
Fuel Economy
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 offers competitive fuel economy for a midsize luxury SUV. The EPA ratings are:
- City: Approximately 20 mpg
- Highway: Approximately 28 mpg
- Combined: Around 23 mpg
In comparison to similar vehicles in its class, the RX 350 performs well. For example, the BMW X5 offers similar fuel economy but may require premium fuel, which increases overall costs.
Maintenance
Maintenance costs for the RX 350 are generally reasonable for a luxury SUV. Key points include:
- Regular Service: Scheduled maintenance typically includes oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Lexus recommends service every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
- Parts Availability: Genuine Lexus parts are readily available, but they can be pricier than generic alternatives.
- Warranty: The RX 350 comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, which can help offset initial maintenance costs.
Reliability
Reliability is one of the strong suits of the Lexus brand. The 2016 RX 350 has received high marks for dependability:
- Consumer Reports Ratings: The RX 350 consistently ranks high in reliability surveys, making it a trusted choice for buyers.
- Common Issues: While the RX 350 is generally reliable, some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electronic components.
- Longevity: Many Lexus vehicles, including the RX series, are known to last well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Resale Value
The resale value of the 2016 Lexus RX 350 is typically higher than many competitors in the luxury SUV segment:
- Depreciation Rate: Lexus vehicles tend to depreciate at a slower rate compared to brands like BMW and Audi.
- Market Demand: The RX 350’s reputation for reliability and luxury keeps demand high in the used car market.
- Resale Value Comparison: On average, the RX 350 retains about 60% of its original value after five years, while competitors like the Acura MDX and BMW X5 may retain around 50% to 55%.
Comparison with Similar Brands
When comparing the 2016 RX 350 with similar luxury SUVs, here’s how it stacks up:
| Model | Starting Price | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Resale Value (5-Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX 350 | $30,000 | 20/28 mpg | 60% |
| BMW X5 | $35,000 | 18/24 mpg | 55% |
| Acura MDX | $32,000 | 20/27 mpg | 50% |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | $40,000 | 19/26 mpg | 52% |
Facts About the 2016 Lexus RX 350
Statistical Data
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 is backed by various statistics that highlight its performance, safety, and overall appeal in the luxury SUV market:
- Sales Figures: In 2016, Lexus sold approximately 100,000 units of the RX series, making it one of the best-selling luxury SUVs in the U.S.
- Safety Ratings: The RX 350 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Fuel Economy: The EPA-rated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway places it among the top performers in its class.
Strengths of the 2016 Lexus RX 350
Several strengths make the 2016 RX 350 a compelling choice for potential buyers:
- Reliability: Lexus vehicles are known for their durability, with many owners reporting minimal issues even after several years of use.
- Comfort: The interior is designed for comfort, featuring high-quality materials and spacious seating, making long drives enjoyable.
- Resale Value: The RX 350 tends to retain its value better than many competitors, making it a smart investment.
- Technology: The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the availability of advanced safety features enhances its appeal.
Potential Drawbacks
While the RX 350 has many strengths, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Infotainment System: Some users find the Remote Touch interface less intuitive compared to competitors.
- Performance: While the V6 engine is adequate, some drivers may prefer the more powerful options available in rival models.
- Price: The RX 350 can be pricier than some non-luxury midsize SUVs, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Owner Feedback
Common sentiments expressed by owners in forums and reviews can provide valuable insights into the RX 350’s real-world performance. Here’s a summary of what owners typically say:
| Owner Feedback | Positive Comments | Negative Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Spacious interior, comfortable seating for long trips. | Some find the seats too firm for their liking. |
| Reliability | Minimal maintenance issues reported, dependable performance. | Occasional electronic glitches with the infotainment system. |
| Fuel Economy | Good fuel efficiency for a luxury SUV. | Some wish for better mileage in city driving. |
| Technology | Advanced safety features are appreciated. | Remote Touch interface can be frustrating to use. |
| Resale Value | Strong resale value compared to competitors. | Higher initial purchase price than some non-luxury options. |
Who Should Consider the 2016 Lexus RX 350?
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 is ideal for a variety of buyers:
- Families: With its spacious interior and safety features, it’s a great choice for family transportation.
- Commuters: Those looking for a comfortable daily driver with good fuel economy will find it appealing.
- Luxury Buyers: Buyers seeking a reliable luxury vehicle that holds its value well should consider this model.
However, those who prioritize performance over comfort or are on a tight budget may want to explore other options in the midsize SUV segment.