Does the Lexus RX have heated back seats?
Yes, heated rear seats are available in the Lexus RX, but not on every trim. In recent model years they are typically offered on higher trims or via optional packages, with availability varying by market.
Availability by trim and package
The RX lineup varies by year and region, so whether second-row heat is available depends on the specific model you’re considering. Here is a general guide to how heated rear seats appear across trims and packages.
- Base RX models: Heated rear seats are usually not standard and may not be offered as a separate option in all markets.
- Mid- and high-level trims: Higher trims often include heated rear seats as standard or as part of a package (for example, bundled with other comfort features). Availability can depend on regional specifications.
- Market differences: Some regions offer heated rear seats primarily through specific packages or as part of top-tier configurations, while others require choosing a Luxury/Executive-type package to add the feature.
When shopping, check the exact package names and feature lists for your market and model year, since the naming and availability can vary between regions and trims.
How to confirm and add heated rear seats
If you want the second-row heated seats, use these steps to verify and, if needed, add them to your RX configuration.
- Use the official Lexus build configurator for your year and market to see if heated rear seats appear as a selectable option.
- Look for packages with names such as Rear Seat Climate, Premium Plus, Luxury, or Executive, which often include heated rear seats.
- Consult the dealer to confirm whether the feature is included with a given trim or requires an optional package, and ask about regional availability.
- For used RX listings, review the window sticker or vehicle description to verify if the second-row heated seats are equipped.
Knowing the exact package or trim will help avoid surprises and ensure you get the level of comfort you want in the back seats.
Model-year notes
2023–2024 RX updates
The redesigned RX introduced a more upscale interior and expanded comfort options, with heated rear seats commonly appearing on higher trims or via packages. As with newer models, the feature is more consistently available on upper-grade configurations, while base versions may omit it depending on regional specs.
Pricing considerations and tips
What to expect financially
Pricing for heated rear seats is usually tied to the specific package or trim level that includes them. Because packages and standard equipment vary by year and market, it’s best to confirm the exact cost with the dealer or refer to the local Lexus brochure and configurator for precise pricing. If you’re considering a used RX, verify the feature via the window sticker or seller specifications.
Summary
In short, you can get heated rear seats in a Lexus RX, but they’re not universal across all trims. If rear-seat heating is important, target higher trims or a package that includes the feature, and verify availability for your market and model year with the dealer or official configurator. This approach ensures you get the comfort you’re looking for without surprises.
What is the most common problem with Lexus RX 350?
The most common problem with the Lexus RX 350 is a massive oil leak, specifically from the VVT-i oil line, which can lead to rapid oil loss and potential engine failure, especially in older models like the 2010. Other frequent issues include faulty rain sensors, especially in newer models, resulting in wipers that malfunction randomly. Older model years (2007 and 2010) also show a tendency for airbag warning lights and transmission problems, while some 2016 models experienced rough shifting and transmission issues.
This video discusses the 2013 Lexus RX 350's common problems, including oil leaks and other issues: 55scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 26, 2022
Engine and oil leaks
- VVT-i oil line leak: This is a recurring issue, particularly in older models like the 2010, where the oil line can burst, causing significant oil loss and potential engine damage if not addressed immediately.
- Check Engine light: This can be triggered by various engine issues, including problems with the variable valve timing system.
Electrical and sensor problems
- Rain sensor malfunction: Both older and newer models have reported issues with the rain-sensing wipers not functioning correctly or stopping randomly.
- Airbag warning light: This has been reported across several model years, often linked to codes B0111 and B0116 due to issues like faulty sensors or a depleted airbag backup battery.
- Infotainment system issues: Problems like malfunctioning touchscreens, unresponsive climate controls, and other glitches have been reported, particularly in recent years.
Transmission and drivetrain issues
- Rough shifting: Some models, such as the 2016, have been reported to have delayed gear shifts and a lack of smoothness.
- Transmission failure: In the 2016 model year, transmission problems were significant enough to cause concerns about long-term reliability.
Other potential problems
- Spontaneously shattering sunroofs: Though rare, this has been reported in some model years and is a significant safety concern.
- Body integrity issues: Some older models, such as the 2010, have experienced body-related issues like rattling doors.
- Steering mechanism leaks: These can be costly to repair.
How to turn on heated seats in Lexus RX 350?
To turn on the heated seats in a Lexus RX 350, locate the buttons near the gear shift and press the button for the driver or passenger seat. Repeatedly pressing the button will cycle through the settings: auto, high, medium, and low, with the indicator lights showing the selected level.
This video demonstrates how to operate the heated and ventilated seats in a Lexus RX 350: 1mHow To Car Guy (HowToCarGuy)YouTube · Oct 14, 2013
Step-by-step instructions
- Locate the controls: Find the hard buttons for the heated and ventilated seats on the center console, typically in front of the gear shifter.
- Press the button: Push the button for the desired seat (driver or passenger) to turn it on.
- Select the setting:
- The first press often engages the auto mode, which adjusts the seat's temperature automatically based on the cabin climate control settings.
- Subsequent presses will cycle the seat to manual settings: high, medium, and low.
- The corresponding indicator lights will illuminate to show the selected level.
- Turn off the seats: To turn the seats off, continue pressing the button until the indicator lights turn off, or press the button a final time to reach the "off" position.
You can watch this video to see how to adjust the auto mode and manual settings for heated seats: 59sNorthside LexusYouTube · Feb 4, 2020
Does the Lexus RX have heated rear seats?
The RX offers heated and ventilated outboard rear seats for even more tailored comfort. And when more cargo room7 is needed, these 40/20/40-split rear seats can fold down to help accommodate larger objects.
What is the difference between Lexus RX base and premium?
The main differences are that the Lexus RX Premium trim adds a power moonroof, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and driver's seat memory settings over the Base model. The Base model includes essential features like a turbocharged engine, tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a 9.8-inch touchscreen, and a 12-speaker sound system.
You can watch this video to see a review of the 2025 Lexus RX 350 with the premium package: 49sLexus of EdmontonYouTube · Aug 21, 2025
Lexus RX Base vs. Premium
| Feature | Base | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I-4, 275 hp | 2.4L Turbo I-4, 275 hp |
| Wheels | 19-inch alloy | 19-inch alloy |
| Moonroof | No | Standard |
| Climate Control | Tri-zone automatic | Tri-zone automatic |
| Seating | Standard heated front seats | Heated and ventilated front seats, driver's seat memory settings |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes |
| Infotainment | 9.8-inch touchscreen, 12-speaker sound system | 9.8-inch touchscreen, 12-speaker sound system |
| Safety | Standard safety features | Standard safety features |
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Which one should you choose?
- Choose the Base model if you want to get started with the RX's excellent standard features at a lower price point and don't need a moonroof, wireless charging, or heated/ventilated front seats.
- Choose the Premium model for added convenience and comfort, which includes a moonroof, wireless charging, and enhanced front seat features.
