Lexus RX 350 F Sport (2017) Review: Performance & Style
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, a ride that blends luxury with a sporty edge. If you're wondering whether this SUV lives up to the hype, stick around. We'll cover everything from its performance and styling to its interior comforts and tech features. Let’s get started and see what makes this car a standout in its class.
Exterior Design: A Head-Turning Aesthetic
The exterior design of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is undoubtedly one of its most striking features. From the moment you set your eyes on it, the aggressive and stylish design cues grab your attention. The F Sport variant takes the already sleek RX 350 and adds a touch of athletic flair that sets it apart from the standard model. The most noticeable element is the distinctive spindle grille with its black mesh insert, giving the front fascia a bolder and more assertive look. This design element not only enhances the car's visual appeal but also contributes to its aerodynamic performance.
Moving along the sides, the F Sport boasts unique rocker panels and body-colored side mirrors that add to its streamlined silhouette. The pronounced character lines and sculpted surfaces create a sense of motion, even when the car is standing still. The rear of the vehicle is equally impressive, featuring a sporty spoiler, chrome accents, and dual exhaust outlets that hint at the performance capabilities beneath the hood. The 20-inch alloy wheels with a unique F Sport design further enhance the vehicle's sporty stance and provide a confident grip on the road. These wheels are not only visually appealing but also optimized for performance, contributing to the car's overall handling and responsiveness.
The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident in every aspect of the RX 350 F Sport. From the meticulously crafted lines to the carefully chosen materials, Lexus has created a vehicle that exudes sophistication and athleticism. The LED headlights and taillights not only provide excellent visibility but also add to the car's modern and luxurious aesthetic. The overall effect is a vehicle that commands attention and makes a statement wherever it goes. Whether you're cruising down the highway or parked in the city, the RX 350 F Sport is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Luxurious Retreat
Stepping inside the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, you're immediately greeted by a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. The interior design seamlessly blends comfort, technology, and style, creating a refined and inviting space for both the driver and passengers. The F Sport seats are designed with enhanced bolstering to provide excellent support during spirited driving, while still offering exceptional comfort for long journeys. These seats are wrapped in high-quality leather with contrast stitching, adding a touch of elegance to the interior. The driver's seat features power adjustments, including lumbar support, ensuring a personalized and comfortable driving position.
The dashboard and center console are thoughtfully laid out, with easy-to-reach controls and intuitive interfaces. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is the 12.3-inch display screen, which offers crisp graphics and a user-friendly interface. This screen provides access to navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle settings. The Remote Touch Interface allows you to control the system with a touchpad, which takes some getting used to but eventually becomes second nature. The RX 350 F Sport also comes standard with a premium audio system, delivering clear and immersive sound throughout the cabin. Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the go.
In terms of technology, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is packed with advanced features designed to enhance your driving experience. The Lexus Safety System+ comes standard, which includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. These safety features provide an extra layer of security and help to prevent accidents. The blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert is also a valuable addition, making it easier to navigate busy streets and parking lots. Overall, the interior of the RX 350 F Sport is a comfortable, technologically advanced, and luxurious space that makes every drive a pleasure.
Performance and Handling: Sporty and Refined
Under the hood, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. This engine produces 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, contributing to the car's overall refinement. The F Sport variant features a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances the car's handling and provides a more engaging driving experience. The suspension is firmer than the standard RX 350, reducing body roll and improving cornering agility.
The RX 350 F Sport also comes with a Drive Mode Select system, which allows you to choose from different driving modes to suit your preferences. The Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and adjusts the steering feel, making the car feel more responsive and engaging. The Eco mode optimizes fuel efficiency, while the Normal mode provides a balance between performance and comfort. The F Sport also includes paddle shifters, allowing you to manually control the transmission for a more engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making the RX 350 F Sport capable in a variety of weather conditions.
While the RX 350 F Sport is not a full-fledged sports car, it offers a sportier and more engaging driving experience than the standard RX 350. The sport-tuned suspension, responsive engine, and precise steering make it a pleasure to drive on winding roads. The car feels planted and confident, inspiring you to push it harder. At the same time, the RX 350 F Sport remains comfortable and refined, making it a great choice for daily commuting and long road trips. The combination of sporty handling and luxurious comfort makes the RX 350 F Sport a standout in its class. Whether you're looking for a fun-to-drive SUV or a comfortable and refined daily driver, the RX 350 F Sport delivers on both fronts.
Reliability and Maintenance: Peace of Mind
When considering a luxury SUV, reliability and maintenance are crucial factors. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport excels in this area, thanks to Lexus' reputation for building high-quality and dependable vehicles. The RX 350 has consistently earned high ratings in reliability surveys, indicating that owners experience fewer problems compared to other vehicles in its class. This reliability translates to lower ownership costs and greater peace of mind.
Lexus also offers a comprehensive warranty package, which includes a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. This warranty coverage provides added protection against unexpected repairs and ensures that you're covered in case of any issues. In addition to the warranty, Lexus offers complimentary maintenance for the first year or 10,000 miles, covering services like oil changes and inspections. This helps to keep your RX 350 F Sport in top condition and reduces your maintenance costs during the initial ownership period.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your RX 350 F Sport running smoothly and reliably. Lexus recommends following the scheduled maintenance intervals outlined in the owner's manual, which include services like oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks. These services help to prevent problems and ensure that your vehicle performs optimally. Lexus dealerships have trained technicians who are familiar with the RX 350 F Sport and can provide expert service and repairs. They use genuine Lexus parts, which are designed to fit and function properly in your vehicle. Overall, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers excellent reliability and manageable maintenance costs, making it a smart choice for those seeking a dependable luxury SUV.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport Worth It?
So, is the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport worth the investment? Absolutely! This SUV combines sporty styling, a luxurious interior, and engaging performance in a way that few competitors can match. The F Sport variant adds a touch of aggression and athleticism to the already stylish RX 350, making it a head-turner on the road. The interior is comfortable and well-appointed, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The technology features are user-friendly and enhance the overall driving experience. The performance is smooth and responsive, with enough power for both city driving and highway cruising.
One of the biggest advantages of the RX 350 F Sport is its reliability. Lexus has a well-deserved reputation for building high-quality vehicles that last, and the RX 350 is no exception. This reliability translates to lower ownership costs and greater peace of mind. The RX 350 F Sport is also a practical choice, offering ample cargo space and a comfortable ride for long journeys. The advanced safety features provide an extra layer of security and help to prevent accidents.
If you're looking for a luxury SUV that combines style, performance, comfort, and reliability, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is an excellent choice. It's a vehicle that you can enjoy driving every day, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. The RX 350 F Sport is a well-rounded SUV that offers a great value for the money. So, go ahead and give it a test drive – you won't be disappointed!
