What is the powertrain of the Lexus RX 350?

The RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available on many trims. This setup is distinct from the hybrid variants in the RX lineup.

In detail, the RX 350 uses a 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 featuring Dual VVT-i and direct injection. It channels about 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque through a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on some trims, while all-wheel drive is an option or standard on others. Note that the RX 350’s powertrain is separate from the RX 350h/ RX 450h hybrids, which use a different gasoline/electric setup.

Engine and performance

The heart of the RX 350’s driving experience is its refined V6 and how it delivers power across the rev range. The following details outline the core engine characteristics that define its performance.

Key specifications

• Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS) with Dual VVT-i and direct injection


• Power: 295 horsepower (approximately 6,600 rpm)


• Torque: 268 lb-ft (approximately 4,700 rpm)

The V6 is tuned to emphasize smooth, midrange torque with strong acceleration coming in from the middle of the rev range, complementing the vehicle’s luxury crossover character.

Transmission and drivetrain

Supporting the engine are a modern transmission and flexible drivetrain options that balance performance with efficiency. The RX 350’s pairing is designed to provide a refined and predictable driving experience.

• Transmission: Direct Shift 8-speed automatic


• Drivetrain options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)


• Drive modes: Typical configurations include ECO, Normal, and SPORT to tailor throttle response and shifting (availability may vary by model year and trim)

Together, the engine and transmission deliver a smooth, quiet ride with confident highway overtakes, while the optional AWD helps with traction in slick conditions.

Hybrid note (for context)

For buyers considering alternatives within the RX lineup, the RX 350’s powertrain is not a hybrid. Lexus also offers hybrid variants such as the RX 350h and RX 450h, which pair a different gasoline engine with electric motors and a hybrid-specific transmission. Those models produce different total outputs and driving characteristics compared with the RX 350’s traditional V6 setup.

In summary, the Lexus RX 350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, with optional AWD, delivering a refined and capable driving experience within a midsize luxury SUV segment.

Summary: The RX 350’s powertrain combines a 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) with a Direct Shift 8AT and flexible drivetrain options, providing strong, smooth performance without a hybrid system.

What is the powertrain of the RX 350?

The Lexus RX 350 drivetrain typically features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD system is often an on-demand, FWD-biased system that can shift power to the rear wheels as needed for better traction, with an available "lock mode" for 50/50 torque distribution in low-speed, poor traction conditions.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the engine, transmission, and drivetrain options of the 2026 Lexus RX 350: 58sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Oct 21, 2025
Engine and transmission

• Engine: A turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine comes standard on recent models, producing around 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. 
• Transmission: An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, which provides noticeable gear shifts. 

Drive wheels

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): This is the standard configuration for many RX 350 models. 
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): An on-demand AWD system is available as an option, designed to improve traction. 
• AWD Lock Mode: Some AWD models include a "lock mode" that can be engaged at low speeds (below 40 km/h) to force a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear axles for maximum traction in challenging conditions. 

This video explains how the all-wheel drive lock mode works on Lexus vehicles: 59sLexus CanadaYouTube · Jun 18, 2020

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 27, 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. 

Is the Lexus RX 350 4 or 6 cylinder?

The Lexus RX 350 is a 4-cylinder engine, specifically a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, replacing the V6 engine from previous models. This turbocharged engine produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
 
You can watch this video to see a detailed review of the 2025 Lexus RX 350's four-cylinder engine: 54sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Oct 9, 2025

• Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 275 hp
• Torque: 317 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic 

What is the powertrain of the 2025 Lexus RX350?

The 2025 RX350 comes standard with a 275-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional.