What kind of engine is in the Lexus rx350?

The Lexus RX350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its smooth ride, premium interior, and advanced technology. At the heart of this vehicle is a robust V6 engine that delivers impressive performance and efficiency.

The Lexus RX350's V6 Engine

The Lexus RX350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its excellent power delivery, providing ample acceleration and passing power when needed.

The V6 engine in the RX350 is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which helps to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth, responsive shifting. The combination of the powerful V6 and the advanced transmission results in an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Key Features of the RX350's V6 Engine

• Displacement: 3.5 liters


• Horsepower: 295 hp


• Torque: 268 lb-ft


• Transmission: 8-speed automatic


• Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway

The Lexus RX350's V6 engine is a key component of the vehicle's overall performance and driving experience. Its combination of power, efficiency, and smooth operation make it well-suited for the luxury SUV segment.

What engine does a Lexus RX 350 have?

The Lexus RX 350 uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which has been standard since the 2023 model year. This turbocharged engine replaced the previous 3.5-liter V6 engine found in earlier models. 

• 2023 and newer models: A 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. 
• 2022 and older models: A 3.5L V6 engine was standard, producing up to 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. 

Which RX engine is best?

The RX 500h is the one to get. It's smoother and better than the V6 ever was.

What year to avoid Lexus RX 350 used?

You should generally avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years of the Lexus RX 350 due to common issues like oil leaks, engine problems, and transmission issues. The 2007 and 2008 models are flagged for oil leaks and cracking dashboards, while the 2010 has known engine and rattling door problems. The 2016 and 2017 models are associated with transmission and oil leak issues.
 
This video discusses Lexus RX models to avoid and their issues: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024
Specific years to avoid

• 2007: Notorious for cracking dashboards and oil leaks. 
• 2008: Did not see significant reliability improvements over 2007 and has reported issues with steering and oil leaks. 
• 2010: Faced common engine and body integrity issues, including rattling doors. 
• 2016: The first year of the fourth generation, it had issues with transmission problems and oil leaks. 
• 2017: Another year to approach with caution due to transmission and oil leak problems. 

Other considerations

• VVT-i oil line issue: A faulty VVT-i oil line can cause engine failure and is a problem seen in many models from 2007-2015, according to CarParts.com. 
• First-year models: As a general rule, it's often best to avoid the first year of a new generation, which can have bugs that are worked out in later years. 
• Reliable years: Some recommended, more reliable years include 2011–2015, 2018, and 2019. 

What is the common problem with Lexus RX 350?

Common problems reported for the Lexus RX 350 include oil leaks, issues with the airbag system (like warning lights), cracking dashboards, and problems with rain sensors. Other common complaints involve battery failures, steering problems, and A/C or electronic system failures.
 
This video explains the common problems of the 3rd generation Lexus RX 350: 55s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 2, 2021
Engine and mechanical

• Oil leaks: Leaks often occur around the valve cover gaskets or oil pan. Some models have also reported a more serious issue with the oil line to the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system. 
• Steering issues: Problems are sometimes linked to leaking power steering fluid. 
• Transmission issues: Some models have reported problems with shifting, gear changes, or transmission fluid leaks. 

Electrical and electronic 

• Battery failure: Premature battery failure has been reported, sometimes leading to starting issues. 
• Airbag problems: Illuminated airbag warning lights, sometimes with specific error codes, are a reported issue. 
• Rain sensors: Defective or malfunctioning rain sensors are a recurring complaint, especially in certain model years. 
• Electronic system failures: Other electronic systems can fail, including issues with the A/C amplifier. 

Interior and exterior

• Cracking dashboards: This was more common in older models. While not directly a safety issue, a cracked dashboard can potentially affect the airbag system, and repairs can be difficult to source. 
• Rattling doors: Some owners have experienced this noise from the doors. 
• Excessive wind noise: Some models have been reported to have excessive wind noise at higher speeds. 

Other

• Check engine light: This can appear with codes related to the Variable Valve Timing system.
• Interior noises: Rattling or squeaking noises inside the cabin are a sometimes-reported issue. 

This video discusses the common complaints about the 2023-2024 Lexus RX: 1mLSFTYouTube · Oct 11, 2024