What is the difference between RX 350 and RX350H?
The RX 350 is Lexus’ gasoline-powered SUV, while the RX350h is the hybrid variant that combines a petrol engine with electric motors for improved efficiency. The hybrid prioritizes fuel economy and smooth power delivery, while the non-hybrid focuses on brisk gasoline performance from a turbocharged engine.
Across model years and markets, the two versions share styling and luxury features but diverge in powertrain, efficiency, and some ownership factors. This article compares the core differences to help potential buyers decide which fits their needs, with notes on year-to-year variations.
Powertrain and performance
Here are the key mechanical distinctions between the two drivetrains.
- RX 350: Gasoline-only powertrain with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing around 275 horsepower and about 317 lb-ft of torque. It uses an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, depending on the market. This setup prioritizes brisk acceleration and a traditional driving feel from a turbocharged gas engine.
- RX350h: Hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a combined output around 246 horsepower. It uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). AWD is commonly available or standard in many markets. The hybrid emphasizes smooth torque delivery and efficiency rather than maximum straight-line speed.
- Drive experience note: The RX350h typically provides immediate torque from the electric motors at low speeds, contributing to quiet, refined acceleration, while the RX 350 relies on turbocharged gasoline power for sharper throttle response. Real-world performance varies by model year, trim, tires, and drive mode.
In short: the core difference is the drivetrain—gasoline turbo power versus a hybrid setup with electric motors—plus differences in transmission behavior and available drive configurations.
Efficiency, fuel economy, and emissions
Efficiency goals separate the two versions, with the hybrid generally delivering superior fuel economy in daily driving.
- RX 350: Gasoline engine with a turbocharger tends to offer lower overall fuel economy compared with the hybrid, especially in city driving where the electric motor’s assist isn’t leveraged. mpg figures vary by year, drivetrain (FWD vs AWD), and market.
- RX350h: The hybrid system is designed to maximize efficiency, with the Atkinson-cycle engine and electric motors providing higher combined fuel economy. Real-world results depend on driving style, climate, cargo, and whether the hybrid is operating in electric assist or blended modes.
- Note: Environmental impact and emissions typically favor the RX350h due to the hybrid drivetrain, but exact numbers depend on the specific model year and local testing standards.
The takeaway: If maximizing fuel savings is a priority, the RX350h offers a clear advantage; if outright horsepower and a more traditional gasoline feel matter, the RX 350 may be more appealing.
Practicality, features, and ownership costs
Both trims share Lexus’ luxury interior and technology suite, but ownership considerations differ with the hybrid variant.
- Interior and cargo: The hybrid’s battery and packaging can influence cargo space and under-floor storage slightly, depending on generation and trim; Lexus designs aim to minimize impact on practicality.
- Technology: Both offer Lexus Safety System+ and modern infotainment, with hybrids often including energy-monitoring displays and hybrid drive mode selectors (for example, EV, Normal, and Power modes) to optimize energy use.
- Pricing and incentives: The RX350h typically carries a higher starting price than the RX 350 due to the hybrid hardware. In some regions, hybrids may be eligible for tax incentives or fuel-efficiency rebates, which can affect total ownership cost.
- Maintenance and warranties: Routine maintenance is similar, but the hybrid adds components (battery, electric motors) with their own warranties. Hybrid batteries are generally covered for longer periods in many markets, though terms vary by country.
Bottom line: If you value lower running costs and an eco-friendly profile, the RX350h is attractive; if you prioritize upfront price or stronger gasoline performance, the RX 350 might be the better fit.
Summary
In the Lexus RX lineup, the RX 350 and RX350h share luxury and styling but serve different priorities. The RX 350 uses a turbocharged gasoline engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission for spirited performance, while the RX350h pairs a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors in a hybrid system, delivering higher efficiency and smoother operation. Expect the hybrid to offer better real-world fuel economy, potential tax incentives, and some minor differences in cargo space and drivetrain setup. Your choice should reflect daily driving needs, cost of ownership, and regional incentives.
