2024 Lexus RX 350 Configurations: Your Ultimate Guide to a Luxury Ride
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is a luxury midsize SUV that combines style comfort and performance seamlessly. It continues the tradition of the RX series by providing a smooth and luxurious driving experience while offering a variety of configurations to cater to different tastes and needs. This guide will give you an in-depth look into the configurations available for the 2024 Lexus RX 350—highlighting the key features potential drawbacks and everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the 2024 Lexus RX 350
- Trims & Configurations
- RX 350 Base Model
- RX 350 Premium
- RX 350 Premium Plus
- RX 350 Luxury
- RX 350 F Sport Handling
- Pros and Cons of Each Trim
- Performance and Powertrains
- Interior and Tech Features
- Safety and Driver Assistance
- Comparison of Configurations
- Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Overview of the 2024 Lexus RX 350
The Lexus RX 350 has been a staple in the luxury SUV market for years, and the 2024 model comes packed with some notable improvements. Whether it's a fresh design aesthetic or the introduction of more advanced technologies, this car stands out for those looking for reliability and style without compromising on luxury features.
The 2024 RX 350 boasts a more refined exterior design, advanced safety features, and a versatile range of configurations to suit different drivers' preferences. Its refined suspension delivers a smooth ride, while the available trims allow for a more personalized driving experience.
Trims & Configurations
The RX 350 is available in several trims, each offering different features and capabilities. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
RX 350 Base Model
The Base RX 350 is the starting point for this luxury SUV, providing an already well-equipped package that caters to drivers who seek quality without additional frills. This model comes with:
- Standard 18-inch wheels
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
- Turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4 engine
It serves as a solid option for those who want to enjoy the luxury and comfort of a Lexus RX without going for more expensive options.
Potential Drawback:
Some drivers might find the standard wheel size a bit small, especially if they are looking for a more aggressive road presence.
RX 350 Premium
The Premium trim takes it a step further by adding more comfort and technology features. Upgrading to the Premium model gives you:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Power moonroof
- Enhanced interior materials with NuLuxe seating
- Heated and ventilated front seats
This trim is ideal for those who want a bit more luxury touches without breaking the bank.
Potential Drawback:
The increase in luxury features does not come with a significant boost in power or performance, so drivers looking for a more dynamic experience might need to consider other trims.
RX 350 Premium Plus
The Premium Plus adds an extra layer of sophistication and technology to the RX 350. Key features include:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Advanced navigation system
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Enhanced interior ambient lighting
If you're after more tech-savvy enhancements, this trim delivers. The added infotainment and convenience features make it easier to navigate and enjoy longer drives.
Potential Drawback:
The upgraded touchscreen may have a learning curve, especially for drivers unfamiliar with modern infotainment systems.
RX 350 Luxury
As the name suggests, the Luxury trim offers the highest level of comfort and style among the RX 350 models. With features like:
- Semi-aniline leather seats
- Wood and aluminum interior trim
- Heated steering wheel
- 21-inch wheels for a bolder look
- Power rear-door with kick sensor
The Luxury trim focuses on comfort and high-end materials, making it an ideal choice for those who value an upscale driving experience.
Potential Drawback:
The price jump from the Premium Plus to the Luxury trim is noticeable, and some may find the additional features do not justify the extra cost.
RX 350 F Sport Handling
The F Sport Handling trim is for drivers who crave a sportier driving experience. This performance-oriented version includes:
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
- F Sport styling enhancements (interior & exterior)
- Bolstered sport seats
The F Sport Handling trim brings an athletic touch to the RX 350, appealing to those who desire a blend of luxury and performance driving dynamics.
Potential Drawback:
While the sportier suspension improves handling, it may also slightly reduce the comfort level for daily driving.
Pros and Cons of Each Trim
To make things clearer, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons for each configuration:
| Trim | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| RX 350 Base | Affordable, well-rounded features | Smaller wheels, lacks advanced tech |
| Premium | Better interior comfort, upgraded wheels | No performance enhancements |
| Premium Plus | Enhanced tech features, bigger screen | Steeper learning curve for tech systems |
| Luxury | Top-tier comfort, premium materials | Expensive price jump, few performance changes |
| F Sport Handling | Sporty driving, aggressive styling | Stiffer ride, reduced everyday comfort |
Performance and Powertrains
All trims of the 2024 Lexus RX 350 come standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, producing about 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The RX 350 comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. For most configurations, the handling is smooth and refined, though the F Sport Handling trim delivers a more athletic driving feel thanks to its adaptive suspension.
Interior and Tech Features
The interior of the 2024 RX 350 stands out for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. Lexus has ensured that all trims offer a comfortable and quiet cabin, but the higher you go in configurations the more tech-savvy and luxurious the interior becomes.
Standard Interior Features:
- 10-speaker premium sound system
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Lexus Interface multimedia system
The Premium Plus and higher trims offer a more immersive experience with larger touchscreens, enhanced navigation, and wireless charging.
Alex Collantes' Opinion:
"Lexus knows how to create an upscale interior. No matter which trim you pick, you'll feel like you're in a luxury vehicle. I appreciate how they keep the ride quiet and the materials feel high-quality. However, it would be nice if some of the higher-tech features were more intuitive."
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety Features Standard Across All Trims:
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: This suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
- Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The 2024 RX 350 has received favorable reviews in crash tests, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Comparison of Configurations
Here’s a quick overview to help you decide which trim might be right for you based on your needs:
- If you want the most affordable luxury option: The Base RX 350 provides all essentials for a luxury ride.
- If you value upgraded comfort and style without a massive price hike: The Premium trim is a great choice.
- If you need the best tech features for navigation and connectivity: Opt for the Premium Plus.
- For those who desire the best materials and a luxury experience: The Luxury trim has all the bells and whistles.
- For the sporty enthusiast who wants dynamic driving: The F Sport Handling trim is a no-brainer.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is a strong competitor in the luxury SUV market, offering a range of configurations to cater to different preferences and driving styles. From the well-equipped Base model to the sport-tuned F Sport Handling trim, Lexus has crafted a lineup that emphasizes luxury comfort and performance.
In choosing a trim, it’s important to balance your desire for comfort tech and performance with the price point that suits your budget. While the RX 350 excels in offering a refined ride and upscale interior, some drawbacks like steep price increases for higher trims or a slightly stiffer ride in the F Sport Handling trim should be taken into account.
Ultimately, the 2024 RX 350 remains an outstanding option for those looking for a luxury SUV that offers a variety of features and configurations without sacrificing quality or performance.
Note: This content is based on the available information for the 2024 Lexus RX 350 as of June 2024 and is intended to provide an informative perspective on the different configurations. Always check the latest specifications and test drive the models to ensure they meet your needs.
References:
- Official Lexus Website: www.lexus.com
- Edmunds Review of 2024 Lexus RX 350
- MotorTrend 2024 Lexus RX 350 Overview and Reviews
- Expert opinion from Alex Collantes, automotive journalist