Does Lexus 350 have turbo?
Most Lexus 350 models do not come with a turbocharger; the badge generally denotes a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. The notable exception in the current lineup is the NX 350, which uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This answer reflects the brand’s status as of 2025 and covers the most common interpretations of the “350” name.
What the 350 badge typically refers to across Lexus models
The term “350” has appeared on several Lexus models over the years, but the engines behind those badges are usually naturally aspirated. Here is a snapshot of the most common 350-badged models and their engines.
- RX 350 — 3.5-liter V6, naturally aspirated
- IS 350 — 3.5-liter V6, naturally aspirated
- ES 350 — 3.5-liter V6, naturally aspirated
- RC 350 — 3.5-liter V6, naturally aspirated
Conclusion: If your goal is turbocharged performance in a model that carries the 350 badge, the traditional 350-badged Lexus cars do not fit that requirement. The NX line, however, introduces turbocharged power in a model that also uses a numeric badge in its naming.
Turbocharged option in the Lexus lineup
Among current Lexus models, the turbocharged engine is found in the NX 350, which uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four and delivers more rapid acceleration than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6s found in the 350-badged sedans and crossovers. The NX 350 is typically paired with all-wheel drive and is marketed as a more performance-oriented option within the NX family. The NX 350h remains a hybrid alternative in the same lineup, but it uses a different powertrain.
What to look for if you’re shopping for turbo performance
When evaluating a Lexus for turbocharged power, focus on the model name rather than badge alone, and verify the engine and trim details, as they determine whether turbocharging is present.
- Model to target for turbo power: NX 350 (turbocharged 2.4L I-4)
- Other 350-badged models (RX 350, IS 350, ES 350, RC 350) are typically NA V6
- Check the engine badge and specifications in the window sticker or dealer sheet to confirm turbocharged status
Conclusion: If turbocharging is a priority, the NX 350 is the Lexus model to consider, while many other 350-badged models rely on naturally aspirated V6 engines.
Why the distinction matters for performance and reliability
Turbocharged engines can offer stronger mid-range torque and quicker acceleration, but they also introduce different maintenance considerations, heat management, and fuel economy characteristics. Lexus has balanced turbo options with reliability and refinement, but buyers should review service requirements, warranty coverage, and fuel economy ratings for turbo vs. NA V6 configurations before deciding.
Summary
In short, the traditional Lexus 350 lineup—models such as RX 350, IS 350, ES 350, and RC 350—uses naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engines and are not turbocharged. The current exception is the NX 350, which is turbocharged with a 2.4-liter inline-four. When shopping, confirm the exact model and engine specifications to know whether turbocharging applies to the vehicle you’re considering.
Which Lexus has turbos?
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- NX 300. Compact Luxury SUV.
- NX 300 Premium. Compact Luxury SUV.
- NX 300 F SPORT. Compact Luxury SUV.
- RX 300. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
- RX 300 Luxury. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
- RX 300 F SPORT. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
Does the Lexus 350 have a turbo?
OVERVIEW. The RX 350 is powered by a formidable 2.4-liter inline-four turbo gasoline engine that delivers 275 horsepower and control without compromise.
Does the Lexus IS350 have turbo?
No, the standard Lexus IS350 does not have a turbocharger; it comes with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. The base IS300 model, however, is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the IS350 engine and compare it to other models: 48sDownshiftYouTube · Apr 2, 2021
- IS350: The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 311 horsepower and is naturally aspirated, meaning it does not use a turbo.
- IS300: The base IS300 model uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower.
- Aftermarket modifications: While the factory IS350 does not have a turbo, it is possible to add one through aftermarket kits, as demonstrated by various custom builds.
What is the weakness of the Lexus RX 350?
Early Lexus RX 350 releases experienced steering issues, notably power steering fluid leaks from the rack and pinion system. Not only is this a massive safety hazard – it can also be costly to repair.
