Is Lexus RX 350 a fast car?

The Lexus RX 350 is not a sports car, but it offers competent, everyday speed for an SUV. It accelerates smoothly and can merge onto highways confidently, but it prioritizes comfort and refinement over outright speed.

Performance snapshot

Below is a concise look at what powers the RX 350 and how quickly it can accelerate in typical configurations.

The RX 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing about 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivetrain options include front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). In most trims, 0-60 mph times fall in the roughly 7.0 to 7.5-second range, with variations due to tires, year, and drivetrain. Electronically limited top speeds are generally around 130 mph in many markets. While the numbers are strong for daily driving and highway merging, they’re not in the realm of high-performance SUVs.

Powertrain and trim overview

This section highlights how the drivetrain and trim choices influence speed and feel.

Key performance figures by configuration:

• RX 350 FWD: 295 hp, 0-60 roughly 7.0–7.4 s


• RX 350 AWD: 295 hp, 0-60 roughly 7.2–7.6 s


• RX 350 F-Sport: same engine with sport-tuned suspension and steering, 0-60 roughly 7.0–7.3 s

These figures reflect typical testing conditions and can vary with tires, model year, and optional equipment.

In everyday use, the RX 350’s power is more than adequate for confident highway overtakes and comfortable cruising, but it remains focused on refined, quiet operation rather than raw speed.

Real-world driving and handling

Beyond the raw numbers, the RX 350’s speed envelope is shaped by ride quality, steering feel, and cabin quietness. The vehicle delivers a smooth, composed ride with steady acceleration and predictable throttle response. The eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and AWD provides traction in varied weather without dramatically altering the character of the power delivery. For buyers who value a serene driving experience and plush interiors, the RX 350’s speed profile fits well; for those chasing a sportier, more aggressively tuned SUV, alternatives from rivals may offer quicker bursts and sharper handling.

Before considering sport-focused performance, it’s helpful to compare everyday speed and efficiency with comparable luxury SUVs. The RX 350 excels in comfort, cabin refinement, and advanced safety tech, which often weigh more in buyer decisions than outright speed.

How it compares within its segment

In the midsize luxury SUV segment, several rivals offer stronger straight-line acceleration or sportier handling, often with turbocharged or hybrid powertrains. The RX 350 remains a strong choice for buyers who prioritize ride quality, interior luxury, and a calm driving experience over track-ready performance. Its balance of power, efficiency, and reliability continues to appeal to families and professionals who spend substantial time on highways or city streets.

Prospective buyers should weigh the RX 350’s refined and quiet drivetrain against options that emphasize sportier dynamics or higher horsepower figures. Traction, ride comfort, and interior features will often tip the scale toward the RX 350 for those who value luxury and practicality more than speed.

Summary

The Lexus RX 350 offers solid, respectable acceleration for its class, but it is not designed to be a fast-car experience. Its strengths lie in comfort, refinement, and everyday usability, with enough instant power for safe highway merging and confident overtaking. If speed is a primary criterion, consider sport-tuned variants or competitors with turbocharged or hybrid performance. If comfort, reliability, and luxury are higher priorities, the RX 350 remains a compelling option.

How fast is the Lexus RX 350?

124 miles per hour
The 2021 Lexus RX 350 has a top speed of 124 miles per hour. This is due to the bold 3.5L V-6 engine and the standard 8-speed auto transmission, working together to deliver an exhilarating ride.

What are the disadvantages of a Lexus RX 350?

Cons of the Lexus RX 350 include its poor gas mileage, sometimes jerky transmission, and an infotainment system that can be distracting or laggy. Other potential issues reported by owners are poor windshield quality, noise issues, and problems with the rear hatch sensor and electronic door handles. 
Performance and engine

• Poor gas mileage: Some owners report that the vehicle's gas mileage is not as good as expected.
• Jerky transmission: The 8-speed automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit jerky movements during upshifts and downshifts.
• Engine noise: Some reviewers find the engine noise to be unpleasant.
• Poor driving experience: Some owners have reported feeling vibrations at higher speeds. 

Technology and interior

• Distracting infotainment: The infotainment system can be distracting, with some functions requiring multiple steps and the new design consolidating climate and media controls.
• Laggy infotainment: Some users report lag in the infotainment system.
• Annoying door handles: The electronic exterior door handles have a momentary pause before the door opens.
• Unlabeled steering wheel controls: The optional head-up display can come with unlabeled steering-wheel controls that are distracting to use.
• Confusing gear selector: The electronic gear selector can be odd to learn and confusing to use. 

Build quality and reliability 

• Poor windshield quality: Some owners have reported that the windshield cracks easily. 
• Rear hatch issues: The rear hatch sensor can be difficult to open. 
• Safety feature malfunctions: Some owners report periodic malfunctions with the safety systems. 
• Engine/oil issues: There are reports of massive oil leaks and loss of oil pressure on certain models. 
• AC amplifier failure: Some models have had issues with the air conditioning due to a failed AC amplifier. 

Other issues

• Cramped rear legroom: With car seats in the back, front-seat passengers may lose a considerable amount of legroom. 
• Lacks character: Some critics feel the design is bland and lacks character. 

Is the Lexus RX 350 considered a luxury car?

The Lexus RX is the most popular luxury vehicle of 2025 (so far) Lexus' RX nameplate is a midsize SUV model that is a close relative to the popular Toyota Highlander. The 2025 Lexus RX 350 starts at $50,575 and is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Is the Lexus RX 350 a woman's car?

No, the Lexus RX 350 is not exclusively a woman's car, but it has developed a popular image as one, often associated with suburban, middle-class women and "mom cars" due to its luxury, size, and reliability. However, it is a practical, luxurious, and reliable SUV that appeals to a wide variety of drivers for many different reasons. The perception is often based on observations of who drives them, not on the vehicle's design or capabilities. 
Reasons for the perception

• Popularity: Many drivers, particularly women, find the RX 350 to be a popular choice. Some sources point to studies that show Lexus as a brand with a high percentage of female buyers. 
• Practicality: Its size, comfortable ride, and reliability make it a popular choice for those who need to carry groceries, kids, or other cargo. 
• Luxury: The combination of luxury and practicality is a key appeal for many buyers. 

Factors that counter the stereotype

• Driver preference: Ultimately, the car is chosen by the driver, not by gender stereotypes. 
• Wide appeal: The RX 350's reliability and luxury features appeal to a broad range of people, regardless of gender. 
• Different models: Lexus offers many different models. For example, the sporty RX 350 F Sport is often driven by people who want a more dynamic experience. 

Conclusion
While there's a common stereotype of the Lexus RX 350 being a "woman's car" or "mom car," it's a stereotype based on popularity, not the vehicle's capabilities. It remains a practical, luxurious, and reliable vehicle that is a good choice for anyone who needs a premium SUV.