2019 Lexus RX 350: Complete Buyer’s Guide to Features, Performance, and Ownership
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 represents a midsize luxury crossover that combines refined styling with practical functionality. This comprehensive guide examines the vehicle's specifications, interior features, safety systems, and long-term ownership considerations. Whether you're evaluating a used purchase or simply researching this model year, understanding its capabilities and characteristics helps inform your decision-making process.
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 stands as a well-established entry in the luxury crossover segment, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and reliability. This model year continues the RX lineage with thoughtful updates and proven engineering. Understanding what this vehicle offers across different configurations helps potential buyers assess whether it meets their needs and expectations.
Overview and Model Lineup: Trims, Packages, and What’s New for 2019
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 is available in several distinct trim levels, each offering different equipment and styling cues. The base RX 350 provides a solid foundation with standard luxury features, while the RX 350 F Sport adds sportier exterior styling, unique interior treatments, and performance-oriented suspension tuning. The RX 350L extends the wheelbase to accommodate a third row of seating, making it suitable for families needing additional passenger capacity.
For 2019, Lexus introduced Apple CarPlay compatibility, addressing a previous gap in smartphone integration. The infotainment system received updates to improve usability, though the touchpad interface remained a point of discussion among reviewers. Luxury and Premium packages offer additional features such as panoramic moonroofs, upgraded audio systems, and enhanced interior materials. The F Sport package distinguishes itself with mesh grille styling, sport seats, and adaptive variable suspension.
Engine, Performance, and Fuel Economy: Powertrain Specs and Driving Characteristics
The 2019 RX 350 utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated powerplant pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration suitable for daily driving and highway merging. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option across all trim levels.
Fuel economy figures for the front-wheel-drive configuration are estimated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, with a combined rating of 23 mpg. All-wheel-drive models see slightly reduced figures at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, combining for 22 mpg overall. These numbers position the RX 350 competitively within its class, though some rivals offer more efficient powertrains or hybrid alternatives.
The driving experience emphasizes comfort over sportiness, with well-damped suspension that absorbs road imperfections effectively. Steering feels light at low speeds for easy maneuvering, while the F Sport variant provides slightly firmer handling characteristics. The cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, contributing to the refined driving environment Lexus customers expect.
Interior Comfort, Technology, and Cargo Space: Materials, Infotainment, and Seating
Inside, the 2019 RX 350 showcases high-quality materials throughout the cabin, with soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and genuine wood or aluminum trim accents depending on the selected package. Front seats provide excellent support for long-distance travel, with heating, ventilation, and power adjustments available. The rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom for adult passengers, though the sloping roofline may limit visibility somewhat.
The infotainment system centers around a 12.3-inch display screen controlled primarily through a touchpad interface located on the center console. While the screen resolution is sharp and graphics are clear, the touchpad controller requires a learning curve and can be less intuitive than touch-screen or rotary dial systems found in competing vehicles. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a premium audio system, with navigation and Mark Levinson audio available as upgrades.
Cargo capacity measures 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row in standard-wheelbase models, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded. The RX 350L sacrifices some cargo volume for its third-row seating, offering 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second row, and 58.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. These figures are adequate for most family needs, though some competitors offer more versatile cargo configurations.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance: Standard and Available Systems and Crash Ratings
The 2019 RX 350 comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available as part of option packages.
Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2019 RX 350 top scores of Good in most categories, though the headlight ratings varied depending on the trim level and equipment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the vehicle an overall five-star rating, with five stars in side crash tests and four stars in frontal and rollover tests.
Parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a head-up display are available features that enhance driver awareness and convenience. The comprehensive safety equipment reflects Lexus’s commitment to occupant protection and accident prevention, making the RX 350 a reassuring choice for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Ownership Costs, Reliability, and Maintenance: Warranty, Common Issues, and Resale Value
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 originally came with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Used buyers should verify remaining warranty coverage when considering a purchase. Lexus has built a strong reputation for reliability, and the RX 350 generally reflects this heritage with fewer reported issues compared to many competitors.
Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system requiring software updates, and the touchpad interface can be frustrating for those unfamiliar with its operation. Overall, mechanical reliability tends to be strong, with the V6 engine and transmission proving durable over time.
Resale values for the RX 350 remain robust due to the brand’s reputation and consistent demand in the used market. Maintenance costs are generally moderate for a luxury vehicle, though parts and service at Lexus dealerships may be more expensive than non-luxury brands. Independent mechanics familiar with Toyota and Lexus vehicles can often provide more affordable maintenance options.
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Cost Range | Service Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | $80 - $150 | 5,000 - 10,000 miles |
| Brake Pad Replacement | $300 - $600 per axle | 30,000 - 50,000 miles |
| Tire Replacement | $600 - $1,200 (set of four) | 40,000 - 60,000 miles |
| Battery Replacement | $200 - $400 | 3 - 5 years |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
The 2019 Lexus RX 350 delivers a well-rounded package for those seeking a comfortable, reliable luxury crossover. Its combination of proven powertrains, comprehensive safety features, and strong resale value make it a practical choice in the used vehicle market. While the infotainment system may not appeal to everyone, the overall ownership experience tends to be positive, backed by Lexus’s reputation for quality and dependability.
