Let's dive into the details of the 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, a vehicle that combines luxury with a sporty edge. This article will cover everything from its horsepower to its overall performance, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs. If you're in the market for a stylish and capable SUV, keep reading!

Overview of the Lexus RX 350 F Sport

The Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a variant of the popular RX series, known for its comfort, reliability, and upscale features. The F Sport trim elevates the RX 350 with a more aggressive appearance and enhanced driving dynamics. It's designed for those who want a touch more excitement from their daily drive without sacrificing the luxury that Lexus is known for.

The 2018 model year brought some updates to the RX 350, ensuring it remained competitive in the crowded luxury SUV market. The F Sport package includes distinctive styling cues, such as a unique mesh grille, rear spoiler, and exclusive interior trim. These elements set it apart from the standard RX 350, giving it a bolder and more athletic presence. The vehicle not only looks the part but also offers a driving experience that's more engaging, thanks to sport-tuned suspension and other performance enhancements. For those seeking a blend of comfort and agility, the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.

Engine and Horsepower

The heart of the 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is a workhorse, providing a smooth and responsive power delivery that makes driving a pleasure. The engine is rated at 295 horsepower. This output is more than adequate for daily driving and provides ample acceleration for merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. The V6 engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which further enhances the driving experience by providing smooth and precise gear changes. This combination results in a vehicle that feels both refined and capable, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open road. The RX 350 F Sport offers a balanced blend of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for a wide range of drivers.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firmer ride compared to the standard RX 350, reducing body roll in corners and enhancing overall stability. This makes the F Sport more engaging to drive on winding roads, offering a level of agility that's not typically found in SUVs of this size. The vehicle also features a sport-tuned electric power steering system, which provides precise and responsive steering feel. This enhances the connection between the driver and the road, making it easier to place the vehicle exactly where you want it. The combination of the more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and enhanced steering makes the RX 350 F Sport a joy to drive. It strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers a driving experience that's both enjoyable and confidence-inspiring.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, you're greeted with a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The interior design is modern and stylish, with high-quality materials used throughout. The F Sport trim adds unique touches such as aluminum pedals, perforated leather upholstery, and distinctive stitching, further enhancing the sporty feel. In terms of features, the RX 350 F Sport comes standard with a wide range of amenities, including a large infotainment display, navigation system, premium audio system, and advanced safety features. The infotainment system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive controls. The navigation system provides clear and accurate directions, while the premium audio system delivers crisp and immersive sound quality. Advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The interior of the RX 350 F Sport is a comfortable and inviting space that makes every journey a pleasure.

Fuel Economy

For many buyers, fuel economy is a crucial consideration. The 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers respectable fuel efficiency for its class. According to EPA estimates, it achieves around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive with other luxury SUVs in its segment. Of course, actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. Factors such as traffic, weather, and driving style can all impact fuel consumption. However, the RX 350 F Sport is designed to maximize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. Features such as the eight-speed automatic transmission and optimized engine tuning help to improve fuel economy. Overall, the Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving. It's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, but it provides adequate fuel economy for its size and performance capabilities.

Reliability and Safety

Lexus has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2018 RX 350 F Sport is no exception. It's designed to withstand the rigors of daily driving and provide years of trouble-free service. The vehicle is built with high-quality components and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its durability. In terms of safety, the RX 350 F Sport comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. It also offers advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The RX 350 F Sport has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This provides peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected. Overall, the Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a reliable and safe vehicle that's designed to keep you safe on the road.

Pricing and Value

The 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is positioned in the mid-range of the luxury SUV market. Its pricing reflects its combination of luxury features, performance capabilities, and reliability. While it may not be the cheapest SUV in its class, it offers excellent value for the money. The RX 350 F Sport comes standard with a wide range of features that are often optional on other vehicles. These include a premium audio system, navigation system, leather upholstery, and advanced safety technologies. When you factor in the cost of these features, the RX 350 F Sport becomes even more competitive. In addition, Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well over time, which means you can expect a good return on your investment when you eventually sell or trade it in. Overall, the Lexus RX 350 F Sport offers a compelling combination of price, features, and value, making it a smart choice for those looking for a luxury SUV.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport:

Pros:

• Stylish and sporty design
• Smooth and powerful V6 engine
• Sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling
• Luxurious and well-appointed interior
• Comprehensive suite of safety features
• Excellent reliability

Cons:

• Infotainment system can be somewhat complicated to use
• Fuel economy could be better
• Limited cargo space compared to some competitors

Final Verdict

The 2018 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a well-rounded luxury SUV that offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and features. It's a great choice for those who want a vehicle that's both comfortable and engaging to drive. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, the RX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that's sure to impress with its sporty design, luxurious interior, and confident performance. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Lexus RX 350 F Sport is a vehicle that's ready for anything.