Is a Lexus RX 350 good for towing?
Context: A thorough look at how the Lexus RX 350 performs when pulling trailers, including official limits, real‑world usefulness, and tips for safe towing.
Yes. With the right equipment, the RX 350 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for light to moderate trailers such as small campers, boats, or utility trailers. It is not designed for heavy hauls or commercial towing, and limits apply based on the exact configuration and payload.
What the numbers mean for everyday towing
The key numbers come from Lexus/Tux towing specifications. The RX 350's maximum towing capacity is typically 3,500 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package. This capacity is the ceiling; real‑world towing should consider payload, tongue weight, and driving conditions.
Additionally, the RX 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine matched to an eight‑speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain is front‑wheel drive as standard, with all‑wheel drive available. The Tow Package adds cooling systems, a heavy‑duty radiator, an engine oil cooler, a transmission cooler, and a hitch wiring harness to support trailer towing up to 3,500 pounds.
Key specs you should know
Before listing the numbers, this paragraph explains the list that follows.
- Towing capacity: up to 3,500 pounds with the Tow Package.
- Engine and transmission: 3.5L V6 producing about 295 horsepower and around 268 lb-ft of torque; 8-speed automatic.
- Drivetrain options: Front‑wheel drive standard, all‑wheel drive available; Tow Package compatible with AWD.
- Payload capacity: typically around 1,000–1,200 pounds, which affects hitch weight and max trailer weight.
- Trailer electrical and hitch: 4‑ or 7‑pin wiring depending on package; OEM hitch offered with the Tow Package; integrated trailer brake controller is usually not included and may require aftermarket installation.
- Braking and stability: standard ABS and stability control; towing often benefits from using trailer brakes and sway control; check state requirements for trailers with brakes.
In short, the 3,500‑pound limit is the rule of thumb; actual capability depends on your exact model year, trim, and installed equipment. Always verify the specs for your vehicle before towing.
Practical towing considerations
To tow safely with an RX 350, you need to consider weight distribution, tongue weight, and the trailer's braking system. The vehicle's payload and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) set the boundary conditions. Real‑world experiences show steady acceleration and predictable handling with proper equipment, but dynamic factors like wind, curves, and crosswinds matter more when towing near the limit.
- Check payload and tongue weight: Tongue weight should be about 10–15% of the trailer's weight; ensure the loaded trailer doesn't exceed the RX 350's payload margin.
- Use the Tow Package and appropriate hitch: The official Tow Package is recommended to ensure cooling and mounting hardware.
- Brakes: Trailer brakes are often required for heavier trailers; the RX 350 typically does not include an integrated brake controller, so plan accordingly.
- Driving adjustments: Increase following distance, allow for longer stopping distances, and monitor engine/transmission cooling on long climbs or hot days.
Conclusion: The RX 350 can tow a modest trailer effectively when properly equipped and used within its limits; for frequent or heavier towing, consider a vehicle with higher towing capacity or specialized towing features.
Alternatives for higher towing capacity
If your tow needs regularly exceed 3,000–3,500 pounds, there are several options in the Lexus/Toyota family and other brands that offer higher capacity, along with features that support heavier towing.
- Lexus GX 460: Traditionally rated around 6,800–6,900 pounds, depending on year and configuration.
- Toyota 4Runner: Typically rated around 5,000 pounds, good for light‑to‑moderate trailers.
- Toyota Highlander (newer generations): Some configurations offer up to about 5,000 pounds with towing package.
- Other Lexus/Toyota SUVs with higher capacity: Consider LX or other full‑size options for substantially more capacity.
Concluding: For serious towing, a vehicle with higher rated capacity is often preferable; the RX 350 remains a solid choice for light to moderate towing when properly equipped.
Bottom line and summary
In brief, the Lexus RX 350 is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds with the Tow Package, making it suitable for light to moderate towing tasks. It offers a comfortable ride and reliable performance, but it is not intended for heavy towing. Always confirm the exact specifications for your model year and trim, and follow safe towing practices.
Summary: The RX 350 works well for light towing with proper equipment and adherence to weight limits. For heavier or more frequent towing, consider vehicles with higher capacity or dedicated towing features.
