What is the weight capacity of a Lexus RX 350?
On the whole, the RX 350 supports roughly 1,400–1,600 pounds of payload and can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Specific figures vary by model year, drivetrain, and optional equipment; always confirm with the exact spec plate for your vehicle.
Understanding weight capacity in the RX 350
Weight capacity in a vehicle is defined by three related figures: payload capacity (how much cargo and passengers you can carry beyond the vehicle’s own weight), towing capacity (how much you can pull with a trailer), and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which is the maximum allowable combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. These specs can vary by year and trim, so precise numbers depend on your exact RX 350 configuration.
Payload capacity
Payload capacity represents the maximum load you can carry inside the vehicle, including passengers and cargo. For most current RX 350 models, the payload sits in a range of about 1,400 to 1,600 pounds depending on trim and equipment. The exact figure is listed on the vehicle’s door placard and in the owner's manual for your year.
Concluding note: Payload is the difference between the GVWR and the curb weight, and it does not include any trailer weight you might tow.
Towing capacity
The RX 350 is generally rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped (with the appropriate hitch, braking, and trailer setup). This towing capacity applies to braked trailers and depends on the vehicle’s configuration and optional towing package.
Concluding note: Always verify the towing limits for your exact vehicle year and equipment and follow the owner’s manual guidance to ensure safe towing.
Other weight considerations
Beyond payload and towing, the GVWR provides the upper bound for total vehicle load. In most RX 350 configurations, GVWR tends to fall in the approximate 5,500–5,700 pound range, though exact numbers vary by year and trim. Curb weight typically ranges around 4,000–4,500 pounds depending on drivetrain (FWD vs AWD) and options.
Concluding note: To compute safe loading, subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the payload, and ensure any trailer weight does not exceed the towing rating for your setup.
Model-year and trim variations
Weight ratings can shift slightly with different model years, drivetrains (front-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive), and optional packages. If you need the precise figures for a specific RX 350, consult the exact VIN-stamped label on the door jamb or the official Lexus spec sheet for that year and trim.
Concluding note: When planning loads or trips, rely on the exact numbers for your vehicle rather than general ranges.
Summary
The Lexus RX 350 typically offers a payload capacity around 1,400–1,600 pounds and a towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. These figures depend on year, drivetrain, and options, so always verify the precise specifications for your vehicle from the owner’s manual, the door placard, or Lexus’s official data.
