Introduced in 2010, the third-generation Lexus->ke47 RX remained popular among customers looking for a luxury->ke505 crossover utility powered by either a conventional gasoline drivetrain or a hybrid one. Lexus was aware of that with each year and continued to update the SUV in order to keep it fresh.

The current RX->ke496 received its most important update for the 2014 model year, when the vehicle gained Lexus' spindle grille, now available on most of the lineup, LED daytime running lights and a pair of reshaped taillights. Upgrades were more substantial equipment-wise, but we're not here to talk about the 2014 model. The 2015 version is out and it's time to have a look at what Lexus is offering on the RX 350.

As a vehicle that defined the luxury, midsize class and that has a well established group of loyal owners, the RX 350 is an SUV that apparently can make it through a model year with only minor updates. And that's what the 2015 version is trying to do. No need for disappointment though, these new bits and pieces won't let it fall behind its rivals just yet.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Lexus RX 350.

2015 Lexus RX 350

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 Lexus RX 350
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 270 @ 6200
  • Torque: 248 @ 4700
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

For 2015, things didn't change much on the outside. In fact, the only addition that modifies the appearance of the SUV->ke145 in any way is a set of 19-inch, triple-split, five-spoke wheels with light gray paint and machined finish. However, consumers won't benefit from them unless they order either the Premium or the new Luxury Package.

Having either HID or LED headlamps on the RX->ke496 350 is also a matter of checking a box on the options list. LED fog lamps are also available for the 2015 model, but aside from these additions, the RX 350 is the same well-proportioned vehicle that looks somewhat menacing in a rear-view mirror.

2015 Lexus RX 350 - Exterior Dimensions:

Overall Length

187.8 inches

Width

74.2 inches

Height

66.7 inches (without roof rails); 67.7 inches (with roof rails)

Wheelbase

107.9 inches

Ground Clearance

7.3 inches


Interior

Although the overall design of the SUV's cabin remains the same, Lexus is trying to sweeten the deal with a standard Display Audio system with a seven-inch screen and rear backup camera. There's also a Lexus Enform connectivity system for smartphones included with the optional navigation package, which features an updated remote touch interface knob as well.

The 12-speaker Lexus Premium Audio system comes with anything from a classic CD player to the more fashionable USB/iPod control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth audio streaming. But if you're looking for more wattage, an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound system can be added for a crystal clear musical experience.

Available with 10-way power front seats with power lumbar adjustment, personal door-lock preferences and light adjustments, the RX 350 remains highly customizable, while the multi-information switch on the leather-wrapped steering wheel enables the driver to access many settings in a matter of seconds.

A new Cabernet leather-trimmed interior with silver contrast stitching was also added to the options list, but it can only be selected on the F Sport model.

2015 Lexus RX 350 - Interior Dimensions:

Headroom

39.0/37.7 in (w/o moonroof) (front/rear)

Legroom

43.1/36.8 in (front/rear)

Shoulder Room

57.9/57.5 in (front/rear)

Hip Room

55.5/54.5 in (front/rear)


2015 Lexus RX 350 - Standard Interior Features:

- Lexus nine-speaker Premium Sound System with Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) and in-dash, single-feed six-disc CD auto-changer

- USB iPod connectivity

- Bluetooth audio profile for wireless integration of compatible music players with in-vehicle audio system

- Electroluminescent instrumentation

- SmartAccess with push–button Start/Stop

- Steering-wheel-mounted audio, phone and display controls

- LCD multi-information console display on upper console

- Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) multi-information display in gauge cluster

- HomeLink universal transceiver to operate compatible garage, gate, home lighting and home security systems

- Cruise control

- Outside temperature gauge

- Illuminated entry system

Drivetrain

The RX 350 continues into 2015 with the proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V-6 under the hood. Output remains unchanged at 270 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. While it falls short of its segment rivals, the unit offers the same confident yet smooth feeling under full throttle.

The vehicle needs around 7.7 seconds to accelerate from naught to 60 mph on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 112 mph. You won't miss the extra kick as long as you're not racing a 2014 BMW X5.

The unit sends power to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with torque converter and Intelligent Shift Control that can be had with standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive.

The latter is aided by the same Active Torque Control system that varies torque distribution, allowing the SUV to deliver proper ride quality based on driving dynamics and road conditions.

While the base RX 350 kept its six-speed box, the F Sport gained an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The gearbox provides the sportier model with greater acceleration and helps boost fuel economy from 24 mpg to an EPA-estimated 26 mpg.

2015 Lexus RX 350 - Drivetrain Specifications:

Type

60° V6, aluminum block and heads

Displacement

3.5 liters (211 cubic inches)

Valvetrain

Four cam, four valves per cylinder, with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i)

Compression Ratio

10.8:1

Horsepower

270 hp @ 6,200 RPM

Torque

248 lb-ft @ 4,700 RPM

Emission Rating

Certified Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II)


Prices

The 2015 RX 350 starts at $41,705, which represents a $1,305 increase over the previous model. However, the extra amount may go unnoticed considering that the vehicle's new standard display screen and backup camera were previously optioned for $2,775. The all-wheel drive will fetch an additional $1,400, setting the base price for the RX 350 AWD at $43,105.

Competition

2014 Acura MDX

Redesigned for the 2014 model year, the Acura->ke10 MDX boasts an impressive cabin that's roomy and has seating for seven, a feature not commonly available on other midsize SUVs. Sure, that hurts cargo space behind the third row, but it remains a key selling point. The 3.5-liter, V-6 engine shared with the Honda Odyssey minivan delivers 290 hp and 267 pound-feet of torque while returning 27 mpg on the highway, which places it above many of its rivals.

Priced from $42,290, the MDX can fetch more than $55,000 when fitted with its array of luxury goodies, but value for the buck is really outstanding on this underrated SUV.

2014 Cadillac SRX

Far from being impressive by design, the Cadillac->ke18 SRX shines when it comes comfort, quality and safety features. Its advanced CUE infotainment and long list of deluxe features are among its strong selling points. Although it starts at only $38,530 with a decently-equipped entry-level, FWD model, the SRX becomes a bit pricey up the trim level ladder.

It's more powerful than most midsize SUVs with a 308-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 in its bay, which allows it to zoom from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.1 seconds.

Conclusion

Although it lacks the performance figures of its competitors and comes with very little exterior updates, the 2015 Lexus RX 350 isn't an SUV you should ignore. At least not if you're looking for a comfortable crossover that offers a generous list of standard features. The RX 350 is renowned for its luxurious cabin adorned with high-quality materials and modern technology and that hasn't changed for 2015.

The lack of a third-row seating option could be passed on as a let-down, but think of all that cargo space you can enjoy.