What kind of engine does a Lexus RX 350 have?
The RX 350 uses a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, producing about 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available, with front-wheel drive as a lighter option.
Across its recent generations, Lexus has refined this engine from earlier, lower-output versions to the current 295-horsepower setup, while keeping smooth, refined performance. The RX 350 sits alongside the hybrid RX 350h in the lineup, which uses a different powertrain. The following overview explains the core engine in the RX 350 and how it has evolved over time.
Engine family and configuration
We can look at the core characteristics of the RX 350’s powerplant and how it is tuned for everyday driving.
- Engine displacement: 3.5 liters
- Configuration: V6, typically 60 degrees, with dual overhead cams
- Induction and fueling: Naturally aspirated with variable valve timing; later iterations have direct injection (D-4S) in some markets/models
- Power output: About 295 horsepower in current RX 350 models
- Torque: Approximately 268 lb-ft (362 Nm)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
- Drivetrain: Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Before listing, note that the RX 350’s engine belongs to Toyota/Lexus’ 3.5-liter V6 family, with variations in direct injection and valve timing across model years.
Concluding paragraph: The RX 350’s V6 is tuned for smooth, linear acceleration and refined highway cruising, backed by a modern eight-speed auto and flexible drivetrain options.
Model-year variations and notes
Before listing, a quick note on how the engine has evolved across generations and markets.
- Pre-2016 models: 3.5L V6 with around 270 hp; earlier transmissions varied (including 5- or 6-speed autos)
- Mid-2010s to early 2020s: 3.5L V6 refined to 295 hp and 268 lb-ft; 8-speed automatic became standard
- Drivetrain options: AWD available across most trims; some markets offered RWD configurations
Before detailing year-by-year changes, remember that early RX 350 models used a variant of the 3.5-liter V6 with slightly different outputs and transmission setups compared with later years.
Concluding paragraph: While the core engine remained a 3.5L V6, Lexus steadily upgraded fueling, timing, and gearing to improve output, efficiency, and smoothness while maintaining the lineup’s reputation for reliability.
Hybrid variant context
Before listing, note that the RX 350 has a closely related sibling in the lineup, the RX 350h, which uses a different powertrain for improved efficiency.
- RX 350h powertrain: Hybrid system with a 2.5-liter inline-four and electric motors, not the same V6 as the RX 350
- Purpose: Enhanced fuel economy and lower emissions, at the cost of some peak power compared with the V6
- Clarification: If you specifically want the V6 experience, the RX 350 (not the hybrid) is the model to choose
Concluding paragraph: The RX 350’s engine remains distinct from the RX 350h’s hybrid setup, offering strong performance with the traditional V6 while the hybrid emphasizes efficiency.
Why this matters for buyers
Before listing, consider how engine design affects ownership: performance expectations, maintenance, and fuel economy influence overall ownership costs.
- Performance: The 3.5L V6 delivers strong in-gear response and solid highway passing power, with a quiet cabin at speed
- Fuel economy: Typically in the mid-20s MPG range in mixed driving for the RX 350, varying by drivetrain and year
- Maintenance: Expect modern V6 maintenance with timing chains (not belts), regular valve-timing checks, and routine spark plug/reinspection intervals per the manual
Concluding paragraph: In short, the RX 350’s engine emphasizes refined power and reliability, supported by an advanced automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive for versatile performance in diverse conditions.
Summary
The Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, delivering about 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive is available, enhancing traction in varying conditions. Over its generations, the engine has evolved from earlier, lower-output versions to this refined setup, while the RX 350h offers a separate hybrid powertrain for higher efficiency. For precise figures by model year or region, check the specific vehicle documentation or Lexus’s official specifications for that market.
