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Where is the Lexus RX 350 manufactured?

The Lexus RX 350, a popular luxury crossover SUV, is primarily manufactured in Japan. The RX 350 is one of Lexus' flagship models and a key part of the brand's lineup.


Lexus RX 350 Production Locations


According to the information gathered from various sources, the Lexus RX 350 is manufactured in the following locations:



  • Kyushu, Japan: The majority of Lexus RX 350 models are produced at the Kyushu plant, which is Lexus' primary manufacturing facility for the RX line.li>
  • Cambridge, Ontario, Canada: A small number of Lexus RX 350 units are also assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) plant in Cambridge, Ontario. This plant produces the RX 350 for the North American market.li>

The Kyushu plant in Japan is the main production site for the Lexus RX 350, where the vehicle undergoes final assembly. The Cambridge, Ontario plant serves as a supplementary production facility to meet demand in North America.


Reasons for Lexus RX 350 Production in Japan


There are a few key reasons why the majority of Lexus RX 350 models are manufactured in Japan:



  • Lexus Brand Heritage: As Lexus is Toyota's luxury division, the RX 350 is closely tied to Lexus' Japanese heritage and engineering expertise. Producing the RX 350 in Japan helps maintain the brand's identity and quality standards.

  • Specialized Production Facilities: The Kyushu plant in Japan is a highly specialized facility dedicated to producing Lexus vehicles, including the RX line. This allows for efficient, high-quality manufacturing.

  • Proximity to Lexus Headquarters: With Lexus' global headquarters located in Japan, the Kyushu plant benefits from close collaboration and oversight from the company's leadership.


While a small number of RX 350 models are produced in Canada to serve the North American market, the majority of global production remains centered in Japan, where Lexus can best leverage its specialized facilities and brand heritage.

Which Lexus models are made in Japan?


Several Lexus models, including the LS, IS, RC, and GX, are made in Japan at plants like the Tahara and Motomachi factories. Other models such as the LC, LX, NX, and UX are also manufactured in Japan at different facilities like Kyushu and Yoshiwara.
 
This video explains how to determine the manufacturing plant based on the vehicle identification number (VIN): 35sE39M5SPEEDYouTube · Dec 3, 2023
Lexus models made in Japan 

  • Tahara Plant: LS, IS, GX, RC, RC F
  • Motomachi Plant: LC, LC Hybrid, GS, GS F
  • Kyushu Plant: UX, UX Hybrid, NX, NX Hybrid, RX, RXL, ES Hybrid
  • Yoshiwara Plant: LX
  • Tahara Plant: GX
  • Miyata Plant: IS and ES
  • Motomachi Plant: LC 

This video discusses the Lexus GX and its relationship to other models built in the Tahara factory: 48sAutomotivePressYouTube · Mar 2, 2023
Other Lexus manufacturing locations
  • United States: Lexus ES (Lexington, Kentucky)
  • Canada: Lexus RX, RX Hybrid (Cambridge, Ontario) 



Where are Lexus RX 350 made?


Lexus RX 350s are made in both Canada and Japan. They are assembled in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada, by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada and in Kyushu, Japan, by Toyota Kyushu.
 
This video explains the differences between Lexus cars made in Canada and Japan: 1mAutomotivePressYouTube · Jun 29, 2023

  • Canada: Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) in Cambridge, Ontario, builds the RX, RX Hybrid, and other models for the North American market. 
  • Japan: Production also takes place at the Toyota Kyushu plant in Miyawaka, Fukuoka, which assembles the RX and RX PHEV for the global market. 



Which Lexus models are made in the USA?


Lexus models made in the USA include the Lexus ES (Kentucky) and the Lexus TX (Indiana). These vehicles are assembled at different Toyota manufacturing plants within the United States. 

  • Lexus ES: Built in Georgetown, Kentucky, at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK). 
  • Lexus TX: Assembled in Princeton, Indiana, at a plant that also produces the Grand Highlander. 



What years to avoid Lexus RX 350?


Years to avoid for the Lexus RX 350 include 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 due to common problems like oil leaks, engine issues, brake failures, and faulty sensors. The 2010-2012 models are particularly prone to a ruptured oil cooler line that can cause engine failure, while the 2007-2009 models had issues with cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder. The 2016 and 2017 models saw recalls related to airbags and issues with rain sensors, notes CoPilot.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Lexus RX 350 and common problems in different generations: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 22, 2024
Years to avoid and why

  • 2007–2009: These models are known for cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder that can lead to brake failure. 
  • 2010–2012: A common and severe problem with these years is the oil cooler line, which can rupture and lead to engine failure. 
  • 2016–2017: The 2016 model year had airbag recalls and was the first year of a new generation, which can lead to early bugs. The 2017 model had issues with the rain sensor and wipers, in addition to having its own airbag recalls. 

What to look for instead
  • 2011–2015: These models generally have fewer issues, with the 2013–2015 models in particular being noted as more reliable. 
  • 2018–2022: Models from these years are considered more reliable, especially those with the redesigned exterior. 
  • 2020–2022: These are considered among the most reliable years, with the 2020 model year being a good choice. 

This video discusses the best Lexus RX 350 years to buy: 59sThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024


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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.